Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You are not just looking for a ride; you are looking for a companion that fits your budget, keeps your family safe, does not break the bank with monthly maintenance, offers the latest features, and comes with reliable company service. Its a long checklist. Today, we are going to dive deep into a car that aims to tick all these boxes and more: the new Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT. Lets find out if this German sedan is the perfect match for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Virtus Highline Plus AT comes powered by a lively 1.0 litre TSI turbo petrol engine. This peppy engine delivers 115 PS of power and a healthy 178 Nm of peak torque. Paired with a smooth 6 speed automatic transmission, it offers a refined driving experience, perfect for both city commutes and highway cruises.

Design Overview

Exterior

The Virtus stands out with its bold and elegant European design. It features sharp LED headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, a striking chrome-finished grille, and strong character lines that flow seamlessly across the body. The sleek profile, coupe-like roofline, and stylish alloy wheels give it a premium and dynamic road presence.

Interior

Step inside and you are greeted by a thoughtfully designed cabin. The interior of the Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT boasts a dual-tone theme, quality materials, and a driver-centric dashboard layout. The fit and finish are top-notch, exuding a sense of sophistication and comfort.

Key Features

• Large 10 inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone connectivity
• Electric sunroof, adding an airy feel to the cabin
• Wireless phone charging for convenience
• Automatic climate control for optimal cabin temperature
• Rear view camera for easy parking
• Cruise control for relaxed highway driving
• 8 inch digital instrument cluster (Volkswagen Digital Cockpit)

What is the Ground Clearance of

The Volkswagen Virtus offers a very practical ground clearance of 179 mm. This is excellent for Indian road conditions, ensuring you easily glide over speed breakers and uneven surfaces.

What is the Boot Space of

One of the Virtus standout features is its massive boot space of 521 litres. This is among the best in its segment, offering ample room for all your luggage on those long family trips.

What is the Dimensions of

The Volkswagen Virtus measures:

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

Powertrain Options

While the Virtus Highline Plus AT specifically features the 1.0 litre TSI with a 6 speed automatic gearbox, Volkswagen also offers a more powerful 1.5 litre TSI EVO engine paired with a 7 speed DSG automatic transmission in its GT variants. This gives buyers a choice depending on their performance preferences.

Safety Features

Volkswagen has always prioritised safety, and the Virtus Highline Plus AT is no exception. It comes loaded with:

• Six airbags for all-round protection
• Electronic Stability Control ESC
• Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution EBD
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System TPMS
• Hill Hold Control to prevent rollback on inclines
• Multi-collision brakes
• Rear parking sensors

NCAP Rating Table

Rivals of Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT

In the competitive mid-size sedan segment, the Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT takes on some strong contenders including:

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

How is the Car? Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and a 5-star safety rating from both Global NCAP and Bharat NCAP.
• Refined, peppy, and fuel-efficient 1.0 litre TSI engine.
• Smooth and responsive 6 speed automatic transmission.
• Spacious cabin with excellent legroom and a class-leading boot space.
• Comfortable ride quality that soaks up bumps effectively.
• Elegant and timeless European design with strong road presence.
• Feature-packed interior including an electric sunroof, digital cockpit, and wireless charging.

Cons:

• No 360-degree camera, which some rivals are now offering.
• Rear seat width can be a bit tight for three adults on longer journeys.
• While good, turbo petrol engine fuel efficiency might not match some naturally aspirated rivals in stop-go traffic.
• Volkswagen service network, though improving, is not as widespread as some competitors like Maruti Suzuki.
• Some hard plastics are present in the lower parts of the cabin, which can detract from the premium feel slightly.

Conclusion

The Volkswagen Virtus Highline Plus AT emerges as a highly compelling package for anyone looking for a premium mid-size sedan in India. It beautifully blends German engineering, top-notch safety, a refined driving experience, and a host of modern features. With its stunning design, spacious interior, and that reassuring 5-star safety rating, the Virtus is more than just a car; it is a statement. If safety, performance, and a touch of luxury are high on your priority list, the Virtus Highline Plus AT deserves a serious look. Make an informed decision and happy driving.