First look: Polo goes GTi at Tokyo

SNAPPING at the heels of the new-generation VW Golf GTi, the latest version of the Polo GTi will be revealed at the Tokyo motor show in a couple of weeks.

Never previously sold in Australia but believed to be under consideration for local introduction, the hot Polo three-door uses a 1.8-litre turbocharged, five-valve four-cylinder engine to achieve a power output of 110kW, along with 229Nm of torque at 1950rpm.

This is enough to propel it to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds, or about one second behind the manual-transmission version of the new Golf GTi. Quoted average fuel consumption is a miserly 7.8L/100km.

The Polo unashamedly mimics the Audi-like "full-frame" grille of the Golf GTi and will undoubtedly often be mistaken for its bigger sibling on the road.

It also gets Golf-style five-spoke alloy wheels with 205/45 R16 tyres, and a tighter suspension riding 15mm lower than the standard Polo.

Like the Golf GTi, the Polo version acquires VW’s ESP electronic stability control system as well as ABS.

Golf cues can also be found in the red brake calipers, integrated rear roof spoiler and deeper side skirts.

Inside, the Polo GTi is equipped with sports seats in chequered cloth, while the steering wheel (with red stitching), shift lever and handbrake are leather-trimmed. Satin chrome finish features on the centre console and air vents as well as the floor pedals.

As a direct competitor for the likes of Peugeot’s 206 GTi and Renault’s Clio Sport, the Polo GTi could be expected to sell in the mid-$30,000 bracket.