Volkswagen South Africa has launched an “upgraded” Polo Vivo GT. So, what’s new about the revised version of the locally produced, prolonged-lifecycle hatchback? Well, here’s what you need to know.
The updated Polo Vivo GT sticks with the outgoing version’s turbocharged 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which sends unchanged peak outputs of 81 kW and 200 Nm to the front axle, again via a 6-speed manual gearbox.
What does the upgrade to the Polo Vivo 1.0 TSI GT – which sits right at the summit of the strong-selling 5-variant Vivo range – then entail? Well, it appears to be an entirely (and rather subtle) cosmetic exercise, led by the adoption of a new exterior silver theme. Yes, the previously body coloured side-mirror caps switch to a silver finish, matching the 17-inch “Mirabeau” alloy wheels.
Spot the difference: original on the left, updated model on the right. Yes, the changes are subtle.
Meanwhile, the decals that run along the 5-door hatchback’s flanks change from black to silver, and take on a new design, too (the “GT” logo, for instance, is smaller than before and now positioned on the front rather than rear doors). Round back, the GT insignia likewise switches from black to silver. We also noticed the availability of a fresh paint finish; the “Wild Cherry metallic” option you see in the accompanying images.
Inside, the silver theme continues, with the Polo Vivo GT gaining dashboard inserts in the bright hue. In addition, the colour used for the cloth insert and top-stitching on the front seats has been changed to red, though the headrests interestingly now lose the top-stitching detail. Grey stitching has been applied to the gear-lever and handbrake gaiters, while the mats feature “GT” logos embroidered in red.
Other standard features include the Safety Package, the Lights and Vision Package, cruise control, faux-aluminium pedals, Anthracite headlining, a chrome-trimmed tailpipe, lowered suspension (by 15 mm) and a black rear spoiler.
Volkswagen Polo Vivo GT – R332 800
A 3-year/120 000 km warranty is included in the price, while service and maintenance plans (with intervals of 15 000 km) are available as options.
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