Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG is a sedan that has managed to reignite the enthusiasm for sedans in India. With its 1.5-litre turbocharged TSI engine and 7-speed DSG transmission, this car is a delight to drive, especially on highways where it offers rock-solid high-speed stability and effortless cruising. The suspension setup is robust and European in nature, providing excellent ride quality even on bad roads, thanks to its high ground clearance of 179mm. The interior is well-appointed with features like a single-pane sunroof, ventilated seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay, although the touchscreen controls for the AC can be fidgety and the reverse camera resolution is below average. Overall, the Virtus GT Plus DSG is a solid choice for those who value performance, comfort, and a premium driving experience, making it a strong contender in the sedan segment.

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG is a compelling package for those who still swear by sedans in a market dominated by SUVs. My experience with this car has been nothing short of impressive, particularly when it comes to its performance and handling. The 1.5-litre TSI engine, producing 148 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, is a joy to drive, especially on highways where the 7-speed DSG transmission shines by providing seamless and smooth power delivery. However, there are a few niggles, such as the erratic rain-sensing wiper function and the occasional water leak into the drivers footwell during heavy rain. Despite these minor issues, the Virtus GT Plus DSG stands out with its robust suspension, high ground clearance of 179mm, and excellent ride quality, making it a solid choice for those who value both comfort and performance.

The interior of the Virtus GT Plus Sport includes ventilated front seats with leather inserts, adjustable dual rear AC vents, and footwell illumination. The car also features smart storage in the center console and height-adjustable head restraints. These comfort features make the cabin a pleasant place to be in. I think the attention to detail in the interior is impressive.

Volkswagen has offered the Virtus GT Plus Sport in eight different color options, including Reflex Silver, Rising Blue Metallic, Curcuma Yellow, Lava Blue, Candy White, Carbon Steel Grey, Wild Cherry Red, and Deep Black Pearl. This variety allows buyers to choose a color that suits their personal style. The color options are quite vibrant and appealing.

The Virtus GT Plus Sport features a range of convenience features, including auto rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamps, and a day/night rearview mirror. It also comes with cruise control, push ignition, and steering-mounted audio controls. These features enhance the overall driving and passenger experience. I believe these small touches make a big difference in daily driving.

The on-road price of the Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES in Delhi starts at Rs 22.08 lakh, which includes ex-showroom price, RTO, insurance, and other costs. This pricing makes it competitive in the mid-size sedan segment, where it rivals cars like the Skoda Slavia, Hyundai Verna, and Honda City. The pricing strategy seems to be aimed at offering value for money.

In terms of safety, the Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG ES is well-equipped with features like six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), brake assist, and multi-collision brakes. It also includes hill hold control and front and rear fog lamps, ensuring a safe driving experience. These safety features are a significant selling point for this variant.

The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG is priced at Rs 18.83 lakh (ex-showroom, India), which positions it in a competitive segment. When you factor in the on-road costs, including taxes and other expenses, the price can escalate to around Rs 22-23 lakh, depending on the state and local taxes. While this might seem steep, the features and performance you get in return make it a worthwhile investment. The car comes with a single-pane sunroof, ventilated seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay, among other premium features. For enthusiasts who are willing to spend a bit more for a driving experience that is both exhilarating and comfortable, the Virtus GT Plus DSG offers good value.

The mileage of the Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG is a mixed bag, particularly for city driving. In my experience, the car returns around 9-10 kmpl in city conditions, which can be a bit disappointing for those who spend most of their time in urban traffic. However, on the highways, the mileage improves significantly to around 15-16 kmpl. A specific fuel run of 45 kilometres within Mumbai yielded a best figure of 14.02 kmpl. The Active Cylinder Technology (ACT) helps in balancing the fuel economy to some extent, but overall, the Virtus GT Plus DSG is not the most fuel-efficient option, especially if you drive spiritedly. For those who prioritize performance over fuel economy, this might not be a significant concern. ABOUT The Volkswagen Virtus GT Plus DSG is a sedan that has managed to reignite the enthusiasm for sedans in India. With its 1.5-litre turbocharged TSI engine and 7-speed DSG transmission, this car is a delight to drive, especially on highways where it offers rock-solid high-speed stability and effortless cruising. The suspension setup is robust and European in nature, providing excellent ride quality even on bad roads, thanks to its high ground clearance of 179mm. The interior is well-appointed with features like a single-pane sunroof, ventilated seats, and wireless Apple CarPlay, although the touchscreen controls for the AC can be fidgety and the reverse camera resolution is below average. Overall, the Virtus GT Plus DSG is a solid choice for those who value performance, comfort, and a premium driving experience, making it a strong contender in the sedan segment.