Virtus GT Range Now Has Three Variants

The Virtus is doing well for Volkswagen India. It has helped the German brand establish a strong foothold in a competitive segment, a claim that even its SUV sibling – the Taigun – can boast. And earlier this year, both received a range of new variants. To further the sedan’s desirability factor, Volkswagen India has introduced a new variant. It’s called the Virtus GT DSG, the third GT derivative. Price? It’s INR 16.20 lakh, the same one would pay for the Topline AT variant, which packs the smaller TSI motor.

A bit more math reveals the new variant costs INR 70,000 and INR 2.37 lakh less than the GT Plus MT and GT Plus DSG derivatives, respectively. And that gap comes due to the features the Virtus misses out on in GT-spec. The list includes front-side and curtain airbags, height-adjustable front passenger seat, auto-dimming IRVM, auto headlamps and wipers, electric sunroof, ventilated front seats and a digital instrument cluster. Besides those, there are a few cosmetic differences, mostly indoors.

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Thankfully, there’s no mechanical difference. That means the 1.5-litre, four-cylinder TSI engine pumps out 148hp/250Nm and comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The powerplant also benefits from VW’s Active Cylinder Technology, which, under lighter loads, shuts off two of the four cylinders to boost fuel economy.

The new GT DSG variant occupies a sweet spot in Virtus’ portfolio. It should find takers who don’t mind losing out on a few features. It will also lure customers away from the Topline AT derivative.

The Volkswagen Virtus is a potent machine in its category, competing with the Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and its step-sibling – the Skoda Slavia. All are petrol-powered sedans, with only the City offering a strong-hybrid option. The new Verna is the most powerful in the segment. In contrast, the Ciaz, a dated product, is the most pocket-friendly. So, if you had to choose one of them, which would it be?

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