Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus ES

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? You are probably juggling a lot of questions in your mind. Is it safe for my family? Will it fit my budget, not just the purchase price but also monthly maintenance? Does it come with all the latest features everyone is talking about? And what about the company's service network and reliability?

Well, if you are looking for a stylish, safe, and powerful sedan that aims to answer all these questions with a resounding yes, then you need to pay close attention to the new Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus ES. This car has been creating quite a buzz, especially among those who love a spirited drive without compromising on comfort and features. Let us dive deep and see if the Virtus GT Plus ES is the perfect German machine for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Virtus GT Plus ES packs a punch. It is powered by Volkswagen's renowned 1.5-litre TSI EVO petrol engine. This engine is a masterpiece of engineering, offering a fantastic blend of power and efficiency.

• Engine Type: 1.5L TSI EVO (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) with Active Cylinder Technology (ACT)
• Maximum Power: 150 PS (at 5,000-6,000 rpm)
• Maximum Torque: 250 Nm (at 1,600-3,500 rpm)
• Transmission: 7-speed DSG automatic
• Fuel Economy: Impressive for its power, thanks to ACT which can shut down two cylinders under light load to save fuel.

Design Overview

The Virtus GT Plus ES is a head-turner, inside and out. It beautifully blends Volkswagen's classic, understated elegance with modern, sporty accents.

• Exterior Design:
  • Sleek, coupe-like silhouette with sharp lines and muscular creases.
  • Signature LED headlamps with LED DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and LED tail lamps.
  • GT badging on the grille, fenders, and tailgate, indicating its performance-oriented nature.
  • Stylish dual-tone alloy wheels that complement its sporty stance.
  • Chrome accents add a touch of premium appeal.
• Interior Design:
  • Premium dual-tone cabin with a focus on driver ergonomics.
  • Digital Cockpit (fully digital instrument cluster) providing all vital information clearly.
  • High-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces enhance the luxurious feel.
  • Sporty red stitching on the upholstery (in GT variants) adds a racy touch.
  • Ample space for five occupants, making long journeys comfortable.

Key Features

Volkswagen has loaded the Virtus GT Plus ES with features that enhance convenience, entertainment, and comfort.

• Infotainment System: Large 10-inch touchscreen with VW Play.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Sunroof: Electric sunroof, perfect for letting in natural light and air.
• Camera: 360-degree camera for easy parking and maneuvering in tight spots.
• Charging: Wireless mobile charging pad.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control with rear AC vents.
• Seating: Ventilated front seats for added comfort in hot Indian summers.
• Lighting: Ambient lighting to set the mood inside the cabin.
• Comfort: Cooled glove box, front and rear armrests.

What is the Ground Clearance of Volkswagen Virtus?

The Virtus offers a commendable 179 mm of ground clearance, which is excellent for an Indian sedan. This ensures you can tackle most speed breakers and rough patches without worries.

What is the Boot Space of Volkswagen Virtus?

One of the Virtus's biggest advantages is its cavernous boot space of 521 litres. This is among the best in its segment, easily accommodating luggage for long road trips.

What are the Dimensions of Volkswagen Virtus?

The Virtus is a substantial sedan with impressive dimensions:

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

Powertrain Options

While the GT Plus ES exclusively features the powerful 1.5L TSI EVO engine with 7-speed DSG, the Volkswagen Virtus range also offers a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 1.0L TSI is also a fantastic engine, known for its peppy performance and fuel efficiency, but for pure driving enthusiasts, the 1.5L TSI of the GT Plus ES is the top choice.

Safety Features

Safety is a cornerstone of Volkswagen's philosophy, and the Virtus GT Plus ES exemplifies this. It comes packed with both active and passive safety features.

• Airbags: 6 airbags (front, side, and curtain).
• Braking Systems: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution).
• Stability Control: ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and Traction Control System.
• Monitoring: TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System).
• Other Features: Multi-collision brakes, Hill Hold Control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, rear parking sensors with camera.

NCAP Rating Table

The Volkswagen Virtus has set a benchmark for safety in its segment.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP	5 Stars	5 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Awaiting official test (Expected high rating based on GNCAP performance)	Awaiting official test (Expected high rating based on GNCAP performance)

Rivals of Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus ES

The Virtus GT Plus ES competes in a hotly contested segment against some strong contenders:

• Honda City
• Skoda Slavia
• Hyundai Verna
• Maruti Suzuki Ciaz

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros (Advantages)

• Blistering Performance: The 1.5L TSI EVO engine with DSG is a joy, offering thrilling acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
• Top-notch Safety: A 5-star Global NCAP rating speaks volumes about its robust build and safety features.
• Premium & Feature-Rich Cabin: The interior feels upmarket, and features like ventilated seats, 360-degree camera, and a digital cockpit add great value.
• Excellent Driving Dynamics: It offers a confidence-inspiring ride and handling balance, making it fun to drive.
• Massive Boot Space: 521 litres of boot space is practical for all your luggage needs.
• Good Ground Clearance: 179 mm is well-suited for Indian road conditions.

Cons (Disadvantages)

• Price Point: The Virtus GT Plus ES is positioned at the premium end of its segment, which might be a stretch for some budgets.
• Rear Seat Width: While legroom is good, fitting three adults comfortably in the rear can be a bit snug on longer journeys.
• Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned for a sportier feel, which might translate to a slightly firmer ride over very broken roads compared to some rivals.
• Service Network: While improving, Volkswagen's service network is still not as widespread as some mass-market brands.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus ES stands out as a highly desirable package for prospective car buyers in India. It successfully combines the thrill of driving with uncompromising safety, a host of modern features, and the legendary build quality associated with Volkswagen. If you prioritize performance, safety, and a premium German sedan experience, and your budget allows for it, the Virtus GT Plus ES should undoubtedly be at the top of your test-drive list.

It is not just a car; it is a statement. A statement that you value engineering, safety, and a genuinely engaging driving experience. Go ahead, take it for a spin, and feel the difference!