The German automaker has finally unveiled its all-new Volkswagen Virtus mid-size sedan in India. The model comes as a replacement to the ageing VW Vento. Its India launch is slated to happen in May 2022. Once launched, the new Volkswagen sedan will lock horns against Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and the newly-launched Skoda Slavia. Interestingly, the Virtus shares its underpinning, features, components and engines with the Slavia. Though, both models look different.
MQB A0 IN Platform
Similar to the Skoda Slavia, the new VW Virtus is the brand’s second model to be based on the heavily-localized MQB A0 IN platform. Both companies will use this architecture to develop entry-level models for the emerging markets. It’s a uniform yet variable platform that’s compatible to different body styles including hatchback, sedan and SUV with different wheelbase. The MQB A0 IN platform will enable the automakers to introduce more products to the market faster than before with better efficiency and at low production cost.
Design, Dimensions
As mentioned above, the new Volkswagen Virtus will replace the Vento in the country. Though, it’s bigger and well-equipped than its replacement. The new Volkswagen sedan measures 4561mm long, 1752mm wide and 1507mm tall with a wheelbase of 2651mm (longest in the segment). Upfront, the model features a single slate grille with chrome surround, LED projector headlamps (standard) with integrated L-shaped LED DRL and a wide air dam with fog lamps on either side. Read: Volkswagen Sub-4 Metre SUV In The Works – Venue, Brezza Rival
The side profile has been adorned by dual-tone alloy wheels, a shark fin antenna, door handles with chrome inserts and contrast black ORVMs. The sedan has wrap around LED taillamps at the back. The VW Virtus will be available in GT Line trim that will feature ‘GT’ badging on the front fenders. The sedan will be offered in six colour options, namely, Wild Cherry Red, Candy White, Carbon Steel Grey, Curcuma Yellow, Reflex Silver and Rising Blue Metallic.
Key Features
Most of its features are similar to the Skoda Slavia. The Volkswagen Virtus comes with a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. It offers a fully digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, ventilated front leather seats, 8-speakers audio system, automatic climate control, connected car features, an electric sunroof, cruise control, keyless entry and several other comfort goodies. Its safety kit includes a tyre pressure monitoring system, six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), electronic differential system (EDS), multi collision brakes, a rear parking camera and Isofix child seat mounts.
Engines, Transmissions
For power, the Volkswagen Virtus uses the 1.0L, 3-cylinder TSI and 1.5L, 4-cylinder TSI turbocharged petrol engines. The smaller capacity gasoline unit delivers a claimed power of 115bhp with 178Nm and comes with 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox options. The bigger capacity petrol motor returns power worth 150bhp with 250Nm and it can be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
