First report

I have always liked the Volkswagen Vento in the four years of its existence. This German car’s solid build, high-tech drivetrains and understated yet classy design were always to my liking. Despite that, all this potential never really translated into big sales numbers. According to me, this was likely down to the brand’s infamous after-sales and service rather than the product itself.

VW launched the Vento facelift four months ago and with subtle changes to the exterior, the car now looks even more pleasing. Although VW threw some additional goodies at the facelifted Vento but still it can’t compete with the likes of the Verna or the City in terms of equipment. There is no keyless-go, navigation, projector headlamps or even rear camera for parking. But equipment was never Vento’s forte, instead you get a car which exudes great fit and finish and premium feel.

But the thing that really stands out for me is the Vento TSI’s powertrain. It is properly modern and direct injection and turbocharging is unheard of in this segment. Although the power figure of 103bhp is modest, the all-important torque figure of 175Nm is class leading and promises great drivability. We have already sampled this potent power unit in the Polo GT TSI and the Vento weighs just 60kg more. The Vento in the TSI guise comes only with an automatic and like the motor even the gearbox is a modern 7-speed dual clutch. This is the same unit that is used in the more premium Volkswagens and Audis, so comparing it with the Honda’s CVT gearbox or the four-speed torque convertors in the Verna and Ciaz is rather pointless.

I am really excited to have the Vento TSI’s keys in my pocket for the next three months and I intend to cover various aspects of owning the Volkswagen Vento TSI. Right from drivability, ride quality, handling and efficiency to after-sales and service. Stay tuned for more.