Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You juggle so many thoughts: Will it fit my budget? Is it safe for my family? What will be the monthly maintenance cost? Does it have all the latest features I need? And importantly, how good is the company’s service network? These are all valid questions, and finding a car that ticks most of these boxes can be a challenge. But what if there was a sedan that offered a fantastic blend of performance, safety, premium features, and a driving experience that puts a smile on your face?

Today, we are taking a deep dive into one such exciting option: the new Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES. This particular variant of the Virtus sedan is designed for those who seek thrill without compromising on comfort or safety. Let’s explore what makes this performance sedan a compelling choice for Indian car buyers.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.5L TSI EVO with ACT
• Displacement: 1498 cc
• Maximum Power: 147.51bhp@5000-6000rpm
• Maximum Torque: 250Nm@1600-3500rpm
• Transmission: 7-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic

Design Overview

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES truly stands out with its dynamic and elegant design.

• Exterior: It features a sleek, coupe-like silhouette with sharp character lines that give it an aggressive yet sophisticated stance. The signature GT badging, sporty black alloy wheels, gloss black ORVMs, and a subtle rear spoiler add to its sporty appeal. Full LED headlamps with integrated DRLs and LED tail lamps complete the premium look, ensuring it turns heads wherever it goes.
• Interior: Step inside, and you are greeted by a premium, driver-focused cabin. The dual-tone interior with red stitching (on GT variants) adds a touch of sportiness. High-quality materials, a neat dashboard layout, and comfortable seating make every journey enjoyable. The digital cockpit display and a large central infotainment screen elevate the modern feel.

Key Features

The Virtus GT Plus DSG ES is packed with modern features designed for convenience and connectivity:

• 10-inch Volkswagen Play touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Electric sunroof
• 8-inch digital cockpit (fully digital instrument cluster)
• 360-degree camera
• Wireless phone charging
• Ventilated front seats
• Automatic climate control
• Ambient lighting
• Cooled glovebox
• Rear AC vents

What is the Ground Clearance of Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES?

The Volkswagen Virtus offers a commendable ground clearance of 179 mm, which is excellent for tackling Indian road conditions with ease, including speed breakers and uneven surfaces.

What is the Boot Space of Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES?

With a massive boot space of 521 litres, the Virtus stands out in its segment, offering ample room for all your luggage – perfect for long weekend trips or airport runs.

What are the Dimensions of Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES?

• Length: 4561 mm
• Width: 1752 mm
• Height: 1507 mm
• Wheelbase: 2651 mm

Powertrain Options

The Virtus comes with two powerful and efficient petrol engine options:

• 1.0L TSI Petrol: This engine produces 115 PS of power and 178 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. This is ideal for city driving and offers good fuel efficiency.
• 1.5L TSI EVO Petrol (GT Plus DSG ES variant): This is the powerhouse – 150 PS and 250 Nm of torque, exclusively mated to a 7-speed DSG automatic. This engine is built for exhilarating performance and highway cruising.

Safety Features

Volkswagen has always prioritized safety, and the Virtus GT Plus DSG ES is no exception. It comes loaded with features to keep you and your loved ones safe:

• 6 Airbags (standard across GT Plus variants)
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Hill Hold Control (HHC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear Parking Sensors with Camera (360-degree camera in GT Plus DSG ES)
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

NCAP Rating Table

The Volkswagen Virtus has received top-notch safety ratings from leading global and local assessment programs.

Rivals of Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES

In the highly competitive Indian sedan market, the Virtus GT Plus DSG ES locks horns with some formidable contenders:

• Skoda Slavia 1.5 TSI DSG
• Hyundai Verna Turbo DCT
• Honda City e:HEV (Hybrid) / 1.5 i-VTEC CVT
• Maruti Suzuki Ciaz (though less focused on performance)

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros:

• Exhilarating Performance: The 1.5L TSI EVO engine with DSG offers a thrilling driving experience with strong acceleration and smooth shifts.
• Top-tier Safety: 5-star Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP ratings provide immense peace of mind.
• Premium Build Quality: Solid German engineering is evident in its build and robust feel.
• Spacious Cabin and Boot: Ample space for passengers and a segment-leading boot capacity.
• Feature-Rich: Loaded with convenience and tech features like a sunroof, digital cockpit, and ventilated seats.
• Dynamic Driving Dynamics: Well-tuned suspension offers a good balance between comfort and handling.

Cons:

• Price Point: Being a premium offering, its price is on the higher side compared to some rivals.
• Fuel Efficiency (1.5 TSI): While decent for its performance, it might not be as frugal as the 1.0L TSI or some hybrid rivals in city conditions.
• Service Network Perception: While improving, Volkswagen's service network and cost of parts are sometimes perceived as a concern by some buyers (though this is subjective and improving).
• Missing Some 'Premium' Touches: Lacks features like an electronic parking brake or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) found in some top-end rivals.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES is more than just a car; it is a statement. It is for the discerning buyer who values performance, uncompromising safety, a premium ownership experience, and a car that is a joy to drive every single day. With its potent 1.5L TSI engine, advanced features, and a 5-star safety rating, it truly stands as a benchmark in the premium mid-size sedan segment in India.

If you are in the market for a sedan that offers a perfect blend of power, luxury, and peace of mind, the Virtus GT Plus DSG ES deserves a serious look. We highly recommend taking it for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand. It just might be the perfect car you have been searching for!