| Year
(of specifications) |
2010 |
| Engine(s) |
1.4
litre, supercharged and turbocharged 4 cylinder |
| Transmission |
seven
speed twin clutch DSG, FWD |
| Max
speed |
142
mph |
| 0-60 |
6.9
seconds |
| Horsepower |
180
hp @ 6,200 rpm |
| weight |
1,184
kgs / 2,610 lbs |
The 2010 Volkswagen Polo GTI is the fastest version of the hot
Polo yet. Providing the grunt is a clever little 1.4-litre TSI
engine that uses a supercharger from idle through to 3,000 rpm
at which point the turbocharger cuts in to provide boost.
The result is an impressive power output of 180 hp at 6,200
rpm, and 184 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 rpm which, when coupled
with a 1,184 kg (2,610 lb) weight, allows the 2010 Polo GTI
to accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds before reaching
a top speed of 142 mph.
Despite the none-to-shabby performance numbers, the Polo GTI
is capable of delivering 47 mpg on the combined cycle while
emitting just 139 g/km of CO2.
Sending the power to the front wheels is a seven-speed, twin-clutch
DSG gearbox which has filtered its way down from VW's upmarket
brand Audi. In addition, the Polo GTI is fitted with the XDS
differential, an electronic cross-axle traction control system
for improved traction and handling. The XDS system is a functional
extension of the electronic limited slip differential (EDL)
which is a part of the standard ESP system.
In order to improve steering response and sharpen the handling,
the 2010 Polo GTI is fitted with upgraded springs and dampers
which result in a 15 mm lower ride height than the standard
Polo.
To visually set the GTI apart from the basic model, VW have
given the car a new front bumper featuring a deep airdam and
a black honeycomb grille, with horizontal red strips and a little
- but vital - GTI badge. New headlights, and a stylish LED headlight
option are also on offer. Sill extensions give the side a more
sporty look, while the rear benefits from a new bumper with
a small integrated diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts.
To finish off the exterior package, a set of 17-inch wheels
identical to those fitted to the Golf GTI are fitted, along
with a set of red brake calipers.
The interior of the 2010 Polo GTI featured revised dials, a
new, flat-bottomed GTI steering wheel complete with small gearshift
paddles and contrasting red stitching, aluminium pedals and
new, heavily bolstered front sports seats finished in unusual
tartan trim.
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