Volkswagen Virtus

Thinking of a new car in India? It is a big decision, considering budget, safety, running costs, features, and service. Finding the right balance can be tough. But what if there is a strong contender making waves?

Today, we dive into the Volkswagen Virtus, a mid-size sedan quickly gaining popularity. Known for strong build and driving pleasure, does the Virtus deliver? Let us find out if it is the right car for you.

Main Highlights: Get to Know the Virtus Better

Engine Specifications: Powering Your Drive

The Virtus offers two efficient and powerful petrol engine options:

• 1.0 Litre TSI Petrol: A 3-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 115 PS power and 178 Nm torque. Great for city and highway cruising.
• 1.5 Litre TSI EVO Petrol: A 4-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 150 PS power and 250 Nm torque. Features Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) for better fuel efficiency.

Design Overview: Style That Stands Out

The Virtus offers a sophisticated and sporty design.

Exterior Design:

• Sleek European sedan profile with sharp lines.
• Full LED lighting, including DRLs, adds premium appeal.
• Chrome accents enhance elegance.
• GT Plus variants get sportier blacked-out elements.

Interior Design:

• Modern, well-laid-out cabin with premium feel.
• Dual-tone dashboard (variant dependent) and excellent ergonomics.
• Features a digital instrument cluster (Virtual Cockpit).
• Spacious and well-built for comfort.

Key Features: Tech and Comfort Combined

The Virtus is packed with notable features:

• Infotainment: 10-inch touchscreen.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Volkswagen Connect.
• Electric Sunroof: Adds to an airy cabin.
• 360-degree Camera: (Top variants) Aids parking.
• Wireless Charging: Convenient.
• Automatic Climate Control: For consistent temperature.
• Ventilated Front Seats: A blessing in Indian summers.
• Digital Cockpit: Customisable display.

Important Numbers: Ground Clearance, Boot Space, and Dimensions

Key practical aspects for Indian roads and families:

• Ground Clearance: A segment-leading 179 mm, excellent for tackling uneven Indian roads and speed breakers.
• Boot Space: A cavernous 521 litres, one of the best in its class, perfect for all your luggage.
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 4561 mm
  • Width: 1752 mm
  • Height: 1507 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2651 mm (contributes to good cabin space)

Powertrain Options: Choose Your Ride

Matching its engines, the Virtus offers versatile transmission choices:

• 1.0 Litre TSI: Available with a 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed torque converter automatic.
• 1.5 Litre TSI EVO: Exclusively paired with a quick and efficient 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic, ensuring an engaging drive.

Safety Features: Built for Your Protection

Safety is a Volkswagen hallmark. Built on the MQB A0 IN platform, the Virtus includes:

• Up to 6 Airbags (Dual front standard)
• ABS with EBD, ESC, TCS
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Hill Hold Control & Multi-Collision Braking
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Rear Parking Sensors & Camera

NCAP Rating: A Benchmark for Safety

The Volkswagen Virtus has consistently achieved top safety ratings in crash tests, reinforcing its robust build:

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP	5-Star (32.79 out of 34)	5-Star (44.54 out of 49)
Bharat NCAP	5-Star	5-Star

Who Does the Virtus Compete With? (Rivals)

The Volkswagen Virtus competes fiercely in the mid-size sedan segment. Its main competitors include:

• Honda City
• Hyundai Verna
• Skoda Slavia (its platform cousin)
• Maruti Suzuki Ciaz

How is the Car? A Balanced Look (Pros and Cons)

Here is a quick summary of the Virtus's strengths and areas for consideration:

Pros (What We Love):

• Robust Build & 5-Star Safety: Incredibly solid and secure.
• Strong Performance: Both TSI engines offer impressive power.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Balanced ride and handling.
• Feature-Rich Cabin: Modern tech like ventilated seats, large touchscreen.
• Generous Boot & Ground Clearance: Highly practical.
• Premium Design: Stands out with European styling.

Cons (Things to Consider):

• Premium Price: Can be pricier than some rivals.
• After-Sales Network: Not as widespread as Maruti/Hyundai.
• Rear Seat Width: Tight for three adults on long journeys.
• Lacks ADAS: Some newer rivals offer Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

Conclusion: Is the Volkswagen Virtus Right for You?

The Volkswagen Virtus is a strong contender for those prioritising safety, build quality, and driving pleasure. Its striking design, strong engines, and comprehensive features deliver a premium sedan experience.

If you seek a sedan that feels robust, offers exhilarating performance (1.5L TSI), boasts top-tier safety, and provides ample space, the Virtus deserves a spot on your shortlist. While priced at the premium end, its value in safety and driving pleasure is undeniable.

Our recommendation? Visit your nearest Volkswagen showroom. Take the Virtus for a test drive. Experience it yourself and see if this German sedan is your perfect match!