2022 Volkswagen Virtus first impression: A sporty and premium sedan
Volkswagen is keen to re-enter the sedan space in India after discontinuing its Vento. However, unlike the Vento, the newest offering from the German automaker is about tapping into the premium space and providing a more desirable alternative to an SUV. The Volkswagen Virtus would be launched in the month of May with two turbo-petrol powertrain options. Here's our first impression.
Why does this story matter?
The Virtus represents the next big chapter for Volkswagen in India. The company is also keen to revive the sedan segment. Sedans have been facing stiff competition from SUVs while the lack of new launches is also a major reason for consumers losing interest in them. With the Virtus, Volkswagen is targeting SUV buyers with its design and high ground clearance.
It is the longest car in its class
With a length of 4,561mm, the Volkswagen Virtus looks to be belonging to a higher segment due to its sheer size. It is by far the longest car in its class and also has a proper sedan silhouette. The design language is typically Volkswagen with sleek wrap-around headlamps and taillamps while strong character lines dominate the surfacing. The GT variant looks even sportier.
The interior design is understated but high in quality
Compared to the exteriors, the interiors are more understated but come across as well built. The dashboard design is straightforward while the GT variant adds red accents. A sporty 3-spoke steering wheel fits in with the character of the car. A long wheelbase also translates to a roomy cabin with a good amount of legroom and headroom. The car has a 521-liter boot capacity.
From a rear-view camera to ventilated front seats
The equipment list is similar to the Volkswagen Taigun with a 10.0-inch touchscreen infotainment console, wireless smartphone connectivity, connected car technology, an electric sunroof, wireless charging, and a rear-view camera display with parking sensors. You also get ventilated front seats, ambient lighting on the GT variant, auto headlamps, and an 8-speaker audio system. In terms of safety, there are six airbags along with ESC.
The car gets two turbo-petrol engines
The Virtus shares its powertrain options with the Taigun. The range begins with a 1.0-liter TSI turbo-petrol engine with 115hp/175Nm while the Virtus GT would be exclusively available with a 1.5-liter TSI turbo-petrol mill with 150hp/250Nm. A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard while the 1.5 TSI also has a 7-speed DSG as an option with the 1.0 TSI getting a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
How much will it cost?
We expect the Volkswagen Virtus to have a starting price of Rs. 10.8 lakh (ex-showroom) while the top-end version with the 1.5-liter TSI engine could be priced at Rs. 17.8 lakh (ex-showroom). Overall, the Virtus is a sporty, mid-sized sedan that comes with a set of promising engine options and a spacious interior. We think this sedan is worth waiting for.
