Volkswagen Virtus, a perfect Sedan? Detailed Review & Analysis

Volkswagen serves as a timely reminder that it can make a mean sedan with the Virtus. That's why we are here to review the VW Virtus

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Volkswagen serves as a timely reminder that it can make a mean sedan with the Virtus. That's why we are here to review the VW Virtus.

The Skoda Slavia's sister automobile is the Volkswagen Virtus. It is a replacement for the ten-year-old Vento and is similar to it in many ways while still being very different. The major news is that the VW Virtus is a car that, when compared to its predecessor, is superior in almost every measurable manner. It is bigger on the interior and outside, and it has greater horsepower and performance. How much of a step up is it, how does it stack up against competitors from Honda and Hyundai, and, lastly, is it a car that would prevent you from joining the masses flocking to SUVs? Well, all these answers you'll find inside this detailed review.

Engine of VW Virtus

There are two engine choices for the Virtus. The 110-horsepower, 1.0-liter TSI turbo-petrol engine found in the Vento and shared with the Taigun and Skoda Slavia is anticipated to remain the range's core. Both a torque converter automatic and 6-speed manual transmission is anticipated to be available with the unit.

The 1.5-litre, four-cylinder TSI engine, which produces 150 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque, is likely to be offered in the GT variants. It is anticipated that this vehicle will be offered with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed DSG system.

The 1.0 offers the greater surprise out of the two. Despite being acquainted with the Taigun and Kushaq, this engine and gearbox seem to function more effectively together. The 1.0 TSI accelerates skillfully from rest, whether it is due to a small re-tune or the Virtus' somewhat reduced curb weight. After getting off the line with a little more help from the torque converter, it moves forward skillfully as long as I keep my foot in.

How good is the exterior of the Volkswagen Virtus?

The Skoda Slavia and Volkswagen Virtus have a lot in common because of how similar they are on the inside. But they also have quite varied looks, which is mostly a result of the distinct strategies employed by each organisation. Volkswagen chose a more mature appearance, whereas Skoda went for a sportier and more compact snout. This is evident almost everywhere, from the way the Virtus' "squared" nose has been fleshed out to how chrome detailing has been employed to help draw attention to key features.

The Virtus appears to have the same length beam as a Jetta, especially in metal! This impression is furthered by how far back the lines extend, and the intricate workmanship only serves to elevate Virtus' appearance. Unlike the Slavia, which has almost no cuts and creases on the bonnet, the VW emblem pops out nicely in 3D and the L-shaped LED strips blend perfectly with the grille. Even the taillights with some of the black covering are stylish and edgy.

However, in our opinion, not everything functions perfectly. The 16-inch wheels seem little when compared to the size of the car, and while the 179mm ground clearance essentially provides it off-road potential, the tyre-to-wheel-arch gap still irritates me. We also don't like how the chin portion has been stretched and enlarged; it appears slightly out of sync. However, we appreciate the contrast top and the blacked-out B-pillars. Well, we particularly enjoy how the 1.5 TSI, which is more potent, can be distinguished by its all-black wheels, micro boot-lid spoiler, and GT emblems.

The extensively localised MQB A0 IN chassis is found underneath. Improvements to the chassis also mean higher refinement and NVH levels. The new car is significantly more rigid than the outgoing model, which is wonderful for the ride, handling, and safety. Since there is so much extra stiffness, the floor has also been somewhat lowered to increase the sense of space in the back of the cabin; four-wheel drive versions are not anticipated. Those who are pleased by a strong door close will appreciate how well this car is constructed and how cautious VW was to provide enough insulation.

Since this is the fourth product of the India 2.0 project, we are already familiar with the engines and transmissions, and the range once more begins with the 1.0 TSI. This engine, a three-cylinder with 115 horsepower and a strong 178 Nm of torque, may be paired with either a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The automatic transmission in the larger 1.5 TSI is a seven-speed DSG twin-clutch unit. The larger 1.5 TSI has significantly greater power, with a very strong 150hp and a tremendous 250Nm. Strangely, the 1.5 TSI receives the same tyres and even the same brakes, with no rear discs, despite all the added power and performance.

What are the features & Interiors of the VW Virtus?

The Virtus will be familiar to anyone who has driven a VW Tiguan SUV. When you enter and close the door, you hear the recognisable door "thunk," which adds a lot of feel-good elements. The dash then impresses with its superior degree of fit and finish, and what makes it even more impressive is that practically everything you touch is constructed of premium materials. Consider the exquisitely crafted and designed steering, which is a real pleasure to grip and operate.

What strikes me is that, in contrast to the Slavia, which has an interior that feels more streamlined, the Virtus has less clear evidence of cost-cutting; you can still see it, but you have to work much harder for it. The 1.5 TSI's red trim (which, mercifully, only comes with the red exterior colour) is a bit excessive and, in my opinion, makes the cabin appear smaller than it actually is. The black dash top and black seats also contribute little to this impression. However, the lower portion of the dash is lighter in colour, and I appreciate how VW's designers merged the piano black and touch screen in a single continuous sweep.

The digital dials themselves are really sharp, and the silver border adds definition, especially in the area of the instrument panel. However, VW should have used the screen more effectively. You are constantly looking for information, and having to choose between the speedometer and tacho really makes you long for a broader screen that could have accommodated both.
Those of you who are familiar with the Slavia will also notice additional variations, which are once again due to how Skoda and VW approach various issues.

For instance, the Skoda starter button is located on the steering column, whereas the Virtus starter button is located on the centre console, in front of the gear lever. The lock and unlock button is also located on the VW door, right next to the door handle, as opposed to the Skoda's central panel. There are also further differences.

However, the touchscreen is quite comfortable. Although there is no remote cabin cooling, connectivity is good, and systems like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto perform exceptionally well. It also helps that there is a tonne of USB C ports, wireless charging prompts you before it begins, the front seats are cooled, and there is a tonne of storage space. There are also large bottle holders on the door pads, a spacious, cooled glovebox, storage space in front of the central console, and a small elbow box with a lid that can be slid forward if you need more support.

Is VW Virtus worth buying?

There is no doubt that VW got the Virtus right. It has a professional appearance, a well-made and elegant inside, is really comfy and well-equipped, feels securely constructed, and, most importantly, has all the necessary safety features. It even has a sizable and useful boot. Additionally, whether you choose the 1.0 or 1.5 TSI, it rides nicely, drives well, and has plenty of performance. The 1.5 TSI variant is pricey, just like the Slavia, and the Virtus has priced between Rs 11.22 lakh to Rs 17.92 lakh (ex-showroom). Additionally, there isn't a diesel variant available for high milers, and choosing between the VW and the Skoda will be difficult. It can persuade you that SUVs aren't the only option in addition to being a deserving replacement for the classic Vento.

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