2023 Volkswagen Polo GTI new car review

There aren’t many cars that wear this legendary badge, but the ones that do always deliver the goods with a balance of fun and style.

2023 Volkswagen Polo GTI.

Not many cars get to wear vaunted GTI badges, but the ones that do are something special.

Here’s what you need to know about the Volkswagen Polo GTI.

IT’S A BABY GOLF GTI

The Polo GTI follows a similar theme to the larger Golf GTI. It takes an excellent hatchback and turns the dial up.

The Polo GTI has a punchy turbo engine.

Out goes the 85kW/200Nm 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the standard Polo and in its place is a force-fed 2.0-litre four-pot motor that pumps out 147kW and 320Nm.

It is paired to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic that drives the front wheels.

Throw in driving modes that alter the car’s suspension stiffness, throttle response and exhaust note and you’ve got plenty to boast about. Drivers can choose between Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual. The latter lets you mix and match elements from the preset modes to suit your preferences

PERFORMANCE ISN’T ABOUT SPEED

The Polo GTI isn’t fast by performance car standards, reaching the benchmark 100km/h in 6.8 seconds.

But this car proves that straight-line speed doesn’t make a performance car. It oozes character and makes grumpy noises at just the right times.

Sharp, direct and well-weighted steering make it a hoot to steer and firmish suspension coupled with the adaptable driving modes deliver plenty of thrills on a tight and twisting country road.

The Polo GTI isn’t fast by performance cars standards but it is a hoot to drive.

It weighs only 1330kg, which is why it feels so agile and competent when asked to change direction. There’s plenty of grip from its front tyres, too.

The six-speed dual-clutch auto is a winner here, too. The gearbox is well suited to the healthy does of torque delivered from just 1450rpm.

Gear changes become more enthusiastic as you switch to Sport, adding to the car’s already boisterous flair.

IT’S EASY TO LIVE WITH

Volkswagen’s GTIs are renowned for their ability to adapt to daily life easily.

The performance is there when you want it, but the Polo GTI also handles the commuter grind expertly.

The cabin is well presented, too.

It’s small and agile, making inner city living and parking a no-hassle affair.

The different driving modes mean the suspension can soften to smooth out bumps and road imperfections better.

It can even handle two baby seats in the back, but you’ll need to be short-limbed to be able to sit up front if they are installed facing backwards.

Boot space is on the small side at 305 litres, which is about 50 litres smaller than the regular Polo.

It ditches a 15-inch steel spare wheel in the regular versions for a space saver.

IT’S PRICEY

The Polo GTI starts at about $45,000 drive-away, which compared to the base Polo’s circa-$34,000 price tag feels expensive.

Look deeper and its value becomes stronger. The larger Golf GTI costs $17,000 more at $62,000.

The Polo GTI costs a fair chunk more than the standard version.

There are 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear diffuser, GTI badges, a rear spoiler, red brake calipers and dual chrome tailpipes.

Inside is a fully digital and customisable driver display, an eight-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless device charging pad and sports seats with extra side bolstering, complete with classic GTI tartan cloth print.

A chunky, flat-bottomed steering wheel is wrapped in leather and red dashboard inserts add some sporty flair.

SAFETY IS COMPREHENSIVE

Volkswagen hasn’t skimped on safety.

There are seven airbags and it performed extremely well in independent crash tests with an adult occupant protection rating of 94 per cent. Child occupant protection was on the lower side of good, though.

It’s safe with a good crash test score.

There are plenty of driver aids, including auto emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

All the safety tech is expertly calibrated and only steps in when required.