Volkswagen Virtus GT: Review & Pictures


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350Z

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Volkswagen Virtus GT Review & Pictures

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front.JPG

Volkswagen Virtus Review Synopsis:
  • Volkswagen Virtus launched in India on 9th June 2022. It is priced between ₹11.32 Lakh – ₹18.42 Lakh (Ex.Showroom, Delhi).
  • It’s a direct successor of Vento in Indian market but with significant change in every aspect. Skoda's counterpart is called the Slavia.
  • Some of the chief highlights of Virtus include a striking design, space and comfort, exhilarating 1.5L motor, abundant safety features etc.
  • The sedan is available only in Petrol version at present with two engine options: 1.0L TSi (Dynamic Line) and 1.5L TSi (Performance Line).
  • The 1.0L TSi (6-speed MT / AT) delivers 113.4 BHP and 178 Nm torque while 1.5L GT (7-speed DSG) delivers 148 BHP and 250 Nm torque.
  • ARAI claimed fuel efficiency figures are: 19.4 Kmpl (1.0L + 6-speed MT), 18.12 Kmpl (1.0L + 6-speed AT) and 18.67 Kmpl (1.5L + 7-speed DSG).
  • There's standard 4 years / 1,00,000 Kms warranty, extendable upto 7 years. Plus, 4 years roadside assistance extendable upto 10 years and 3 labor-free services.
  • The 1.5L GT receives extra frills like 16” black alloys, red calipers, aluminum pedals, red-stitched leather seats, ambient light, dual-tone exteriors, boot-lip spoiler etc.
 
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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Introduction

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Quarter.JPG

It seems like it’s been ages that India had seen a sedan on this side of 20 lakh rupees which will tick all the right boxes for being a practical family car yet at the same time bring a big wide smile on the face of auto-enthusiasts. In times when so-called SUVs are coming in all shapes and sizes, it was high-time that someone needed to remind that SUVs aren’t everything. I’m glad that an automaker has finally listened to this plea and crafted a worthy product which is sure to delight all. So, folks, meet the Virtus. The name itself might not sound familiar at first. It’s origin dates to ancient roman era, meaning valor, courage, and character. Globally, the Volkswagen Virtus has been on sale since 2018 in Brazil and Latin American markets, and it’s based on sixth-gen Volkswagen Polo. The Indian model utilizes upto 95% localization and is developed on the MQB A0 IN platform, which is shared with the Taigun, Slavia and Kushaq. The Virtus is a direct replacement for the dated Vento in India. But be not deceived, it’s radically different than predecessor, which somewhat justifies the premium-pricing it demands.

Volkswagen Virtus GT: Looks & Design

Volkswagen-Virtus-Side-View.JPG

The Virtus makes a statement without being too flamboyant. Thanks to sleek silhouette, strong creases and a limited use of chrome, it unmistakably looks like a Volkswagen. The head-on view as seen in the opening image gives a glimpse of being a mini-Passat, and considering it’s the longest (4561 mm) and widest (1752 mm) car in its class, I wouldn’t be surprised if Virtus is mistaken for belonging to a higher segment. Personally, I feel that this sedan appears more elegant and larger in light exterior shades like Candy White and Reflex Silver, even though VW has also provided a set of funky colors like Curcuma Yellow, Wild Cherry Red and Rising Blue.

Volkswagen Virtus doesn’t yet have an official crash-test score. However, in flesh the car looks convincingly sturdy like its German counterparts and then there’s that satisfying door “thud” sound too. Additionally, there are abundant safety features on offer right from the base variant about which we’ll discuss in sometime. The visual differences between Dynamic Line and Performance Line (GT) are mostly subtle which include all-around GT badging, carbon-grey outside rear view mirrors, red-painted front brake calipers etc. The ones which actually stand out are dual-tone exterior paint, trunk lip spoiler and 16” all-black Razor alloys (Diamond-cut alloys in Topline look hotter in my view). From the front, the car looks modest unlike its cousin Skoda Slavia, with very well-outlined clusters. The way chrome border accent of center grille handsomely merge into DRLs of the LED headlamps is magnificent. Front bumpers feature a large air-dam to offset sleek headlamps as well as the grille. It’s bordered in gloss-black and, again, has only that much amount of chrome which is necessary to improve the aesthetics. The lower-end houses fog-lamps with a design that’s identical to chopped-off front portion of the headlamp. There are in-built cornering lights in them as well which operate only if the vehicle speed is below 40 Kmph.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear.JPG

Side-profile is equally well-groomed, offering a classic sports car like stance. Yes, alloys are tad smaller and ground clearance is aesthetically a spoilsport here. However, practically speaking, at 179 mm it’s a huge-huge advantage for the Indian road conditions, something which sedan users will definitely come to appreciate. You’ll also observe a sharp belt line and dual shoulder lines neatly merging with taillamps. Overall, this has to be one of the most proportionate designs among rivals. The rear-view is where Virtus reminds me a lot of its ancestor, the Jetta, more or less because of similar shape taillamps. The car doesn’t really appear as much wide on this area and the raised-up boot provides it slender appearance. All-black LED taillamps, which in themselves are a unique offering, contribute significantly to spice up the rear. Me thinks a de-badged Virtus will look even sexier. There’s a thin trunk-lip spoiler offered on GT variant but even in its absence, there’s substantial appeal left, thanks to neatly sculpted boot-lid and bumper design. Furthermore, chrome stripe on rear bumper is stylishly applied to wrap around the foglamps. The 1.5L Performance Line comes equipped with genuine dual-exhaust pipes. Sadly, the designers have still decided to keep them tucked underneath.
 
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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Interiors, Features & Comfort

Volkswagen-Virtus-Dashboard.jpg

The exterior design sportiness of the Volkswagen Virtus is seamlessly carried on the inside. It has longest wheelbase in segment (2651 mm) and it shows. There’s ample room whether be it for storing those knick-knacks or to accommodate the occupants themselves. So, first things first, let me distinguish the GT-specific ornaments to prevent unsolicited disappointments later on. Performance Line (GT) gets promptly noticeable bright red décor inserts in middle of dashboard as well as around front door latches coupled with a gloss-black finish, opposed to silver and gloss-black combination seen on Dynamic Line. The instrument cluster is red-themed while perforated leather seats also flaunt a red-stitching. Awkwardly, there’s only a short stripe of ambient light on dashboard in front of co-driver (Yup, it’s red, again), which looks incomplete and aftermarket. Its brightness can be separately adjusted though. Lastly, there are chunky aluminum pedals which are a delight to look and operate.

The dashboard fascia is modern with use of multiple materials and color-tones to make it more vibrant. Flat-bottom three spoke steering is gorgeous and has just the right size. Soft-touch leather wrap deserves a special mention as I found the grip to be super comfortable. The center console is visibly tilted towards the driver and houses a VW Play touchscreen infotainment unit compatible with Android Auto & Apple Car Play along with some in-built apps like Sygic navigation, Gaana, BBC News, Audiobooks etc. Volkswagen also offers a free 3-year subscription to MyVolkswagen Connect which provides access to facilities like vehicle live tracking, geo-fencing, safety alerts, SOS calls, documents due-date reminders and more. The 8” instrument cluster (digital cockpit), on the other hand, provides a legible information view. It can be toggled between analog and digital modes but the catch is there’s only one dial at a time, means you can’t have the traditional speedometer and tachometer layout together. You’ll also observe a blank space on either side which could have been better utilized.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Seats.JPG

From a driver’s perspective, something that’s nearly out of sight are the automatic air-conditioner controls. Although Volkswagen has made an effort to make it fancy with a touch-panel, using it demands attention to be diverted from the road, and the small fonts don’t help either. One more such ergonomic issue, which still can be dealt with, is the placement of co-passenger ventilated seat button on driver’s side. Overall, the dashboard is made up of robust plastic that’s touted to be scratch-resistant. Yet contrarily, some panels like piano-black finish are highly prone to scratches and smudges. Plastic quality on some places can be called mediocre, not the best. Glovebox lid is hefty and look-wise resembles like it's borrowed from Vento. It has decent storage space with designated spots for coins and visiting cards. There’s separate control for cooling vent too but the storage is surprisingly non-illuminated. Volkswagen has made several such attempts to do cost-cutting. It may not be evident at first, but becomes obvious over the time and that’s when it starts hurting after spending around two-million bucks.

An area where Virtus excels is the roominess and seating comfort. Front seats are comfortably wide and contours hold the occupants firmly. The seat ventilation function on front (available on top variants) will be a boon during summers. There’s sufficient under-thigh support, but people over 5'11" sitting in front might end up scrubbing their head on the roof, even more so if the backrest is positioned upright. The recessed space left due to sunroof comes to rescue in such occasion. Good thing is that the seats have a long travel range, be it for up-down or forward-backward movement. The lowest position literally makes one feel like sitting in a sports-car whereas the highest position provides a commanding-view of the road ahead. Both front seats are height-adjustable, however, there’s no setting for lumbar support. Unfortunately, Volkswagen is providing manual seat adjustment in an era when consumers are pampered with memory function enabled powered-seats at this price-point. Front seat backrest adjustment lever is particularly annoying to use since it requires an arm-twisting exercise. The actual intent for this placement was rather helpful, so that front as well as rear occupants can operate it. But now, as a matter of fact, it’s more user-friendly for rear passengers than those in the front.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Seats.JPG

Jump into the rear and it’s apparent that considerable amount of attention has been given to make the rear seat experience a pleasurable one. There’s already plenty of legroom even if a six-footer is seated at front. This space becomes more or less like that of a limousine if passenger seat is pushed totally forward. Some tricks that the manufacturer has applied for maximum space utilization are recessed front seat back, roofliner and a toned-down floor hump. The rear seat-back angle is comfortable and under thigh support is as abundant as in front, but headroom comes at premium for tall passengers and if three are seated abreast, they’ll be literally rubbing shoulders with each other (pun-intended). That said, even though the rear seats receive three headrests and floor hump is non-intrusive as well, there are fat chances of middle passenger sitting comfortably. Major reason, apart from insufficient width, is that the middle section of seat is stiff like an orthopedic mattress. Anyways, when it comes to utility front, there are no complaints at all. The rear seats have twin air-con vents, C-type charging sockets and proper door pockets with 1L bottle holders. You won’t ask for more with largest-in-segment boot space (521 liters), but should the need arise, rear seat can split 60:40 and fold down with convenient-to-use latches.
 
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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Performance, Braking, Ride & Handling

Volkswagen-Virtus-Engine.JPG

As you’d have figured out, Volkswagen Virtus tops the segment in quite a few aspects. However, the real thing that truly makes it whole a lot more desirable package is equipped under the hood. There are two Petrol-only engine options to choose from. The familiar 1.0L TSi motor from its predecessor delivers 113.4 BHP @ 5,000 – 5,500 RPM and 178 Nm torque @ 1,750 – 4,500 RPM. It’s available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque-convertor automatic transmission. On the flip-side, the enthusiasts will definitely not be able to resist the charm of 1.5L TSi powertrain. It generates 148 BHP @ 5,000 – 6,000 RPM and substantial torque of 250 Nm @ 1,600 – 3,500 RPM, labeling the Virtus most powerful sedan in its class. My only grouse is that there’s no manual gearbox offered with 1.5L TSi engine, while Skoda Slavia has one. The existing 7-speed DSG in itself is a superior setup, but petrolheads will agree that a manual would have multiplied the fun. Both engines are competent units, with a reasonable focus on fuel efficiency figures too. We’ve tested the 1.5L TSi and any experiences shared are solely in context to it. Going by user opinions, 1.0L TSi version is a peppy one and will do the job to satisfy occasional cravings on stretches. However, I’d still keep personal comments reserved until I drive one.

The 1.5L GT TSi is a 4-cylinder motor (opposed to 3-cylinders on 1.0L) with Active Cylinder Management system. It means that the second and third cylinders are not fired when engine is operating between low to medium loads and speeds. The efficiency is increased in active cylinders, while middle cylinders follow with practically no losses and are reactivated when the accelerator is pressed again. There’s indication on MID when the car is running on 2-cylinder mode, but the difference itself is not noticeable. To reduce fuel consumption, the engine is also equipped with idle start-stop technology that shuts it down when the car is stationary and quickly restarts when you’re ready to move. As a consequence, you’ll very frequently encounter the cranking noise while driving in cities. The 1.5L TSi is simply a breeze to operate right from the beginning. Releasing the foot from brake pedal is enough to get going in bumper-to-bumper traffic and power continues to build up linearly as the speed progresses. Direct-shift gearbox is butter-smooth with hardly noticeable upshifts, although downshifts can be sensed on some occasions. No second thoughts that this engine and transmission combination is a purely sophisticated one, but the reliability and maintenance costs of DSG in Indian conditions remain unpredictable.

Volkswagen-Virtus-DSG-Gearbox.jpg

In “D” mode, the car will be running on 7th gear on a neat stretch even before you know it. It also happens to be the safest course to extract reasonable mileage, in otherwise fuel-thirsty setup, which Volkswagen has nicely managed to fine-tune with ARAI-claimed fuel economy of 18.67 Kmpl. However, I still suspect if this figure can be achieved in regular driving conditions, as the MID of our test car showed anywhere between 12 – 14 Kmpl with mixed usage in city limits. This number further drops to single digit in no time when “S” mode is engaged. Ironically, that’s also the mode where maximum driving fun begins to happen. The real potential of 1.5 GT TSi becomes increasingly clear on open roads. It’s the “S” mode where car enthusiasts will anytime feel at home. The upshifts occur at 3K RPM, and engine becomes noisier but with a sporty note. You’ll enjoy exhilarating surge and gentle push on seat-back that comes upon suddenly flooring the accelerator. There’s never a question of running out of juice when driving out on the highways, even though that’s also when I started feeling a dire need of a manual ‘box. Just for reference, Volkswagen claims that Virtus can attain 0 - 100 Kmph in under 9 seconds and climb a top speed of 190 Kmph.

Talking about high speeds, the car remains extremely composed at any point of time. Steering response is precise and excellent handling capabilities therefore make overtaking maneuvers an effortless task in Virtus. Braking enhances the confidence further. All-around discs would have been appreciated; still with the current setup, a gentle tap on brake pedal alone is sufficient to demonstrate its responsiveness. The ride quality is well-sorted as well, giving a robust feel when running over the potholes, small or large. Volkswagen Virtus elegantly conquers the bad roads and speed breakers alike, bigger patches certainly can be felt, but overall, the car seems well put together while passing through them. As a sedan owner myself, I find the ground clearance a major advantage here (Unladen: 179 mm. Laden: 145 mm), which is similar to Mahindra XUV300. Honda City and Hyundai Verna have 165 mm in comparison. So, no more worrying of scrapping the underbelly over pot holes and speed bumps or while reverse parking on the kerbside. NVH, again, is totally under control with its finesse perceptible inside the cabin. As far as safety is concerned, Volkswagen cars are known for their tough build. Virtus doesn’t have an official crash test score yet but the recent 5-Star Global NCAP rating for Indian-spec Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq adds a positive expectation to the already long list of 40+ safety features which this car is equipped with right from the base variant onward. Some of them on the GT trim include: Front, Side and Curtain Airbags, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, Brake Assist, Brake Disc Wiping, Multi-Collision Brakes, Anti-Slip Regulation, Electronic Differential Lock etc.

One thing is sure, VW has not only upped its ante with launch of a wholesome package like Virtus, but at the same time shown consumers a life beyond SUVs and its competitors a niche for driver-oriented mid-size sedans.

 
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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Likes, Dislikes & Star Ratings

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Side.JPG

You'll Love: [thumbsup]
  • Stylish understated design, which isn’t in-your-face. It’ll age well, typical of a Volkswagen.
  • Large dimensions not only result into an upmarket look but also provide plenty of space on the inside.
  • Robust build inspires a sense of security and a long list of safety features start right from base variant onward.
  • The 1.5L GT TSi with DSG is pure exhilaration. Mileage-friendly 1.0L turbo-motor is not likely to disappoint either.
  • Superb handling with a precise steering response coupled to a well-sorted ride quality and practical ground clearance.

You'll Loathe: [thumbsdown]
  • Pricey. Topline 1.0L MT costs ₹17 Lakh and for 1.5 GT you'll have to shell out 21.5 Lakh (on-road, Delhi).
  • Sales and aftersales network still need a lot catching up with rival brands like Honda, Hyundai or Maruti Suzuki.
  • Outright cost-cutting in several places is disappointing after paying premium and not expected from a brand like Volkswagen.
  • The car’s overall long-term maintenance costs and reliability of DSG transmission in Indian conditions remain a cause of concern.
  • Diesel motor would have been a welcome addition, so does the 1.5 GT with manual 'box, to take the worries off from petrol-price and DSG upkeep respectively.

Volkswagen Virtus Star Ratings:
  • Design and Quality...................:
  • Comfort and Features..............:
  • Engine and Performance.........:
  • Handling and Ride Quality.......:
  • Safety and Security Levels......:
  • Overall Fuel Consumption.......:
  • Sales and Service Network.....:
  • Value For Money Factor..........:
  • The Automotive India's Verdict:
Here's how to interpret above ratings: The Automotive India Reviews Star Ratings Explained.
 
Thread Starter #6

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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Price & Specifications

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Quarter.JPG

Volkswagen Virtus Price (Ex.showroom, Delhi):
  • Comfortline 1.0L MT: ₹11,32,000
  • Highline 1.0L MT: ₹13,18,000
  • Highline 1.0L AT: ₹ 14,48,000
  • Topline 1.0L MT: ₹14,70,000
  • Topline 1.0L AT: ₹ 16,00,000
  • GT Plus 1.5L DSG: ₹18,42,000
Volkswagen Virtus Specifications:
  • Engine: 1.0L TSi / 1.5L TSi (Petrol)
  • Power: 115 PS / 150 PS
  • Torque: 178 Nm / 250 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed MT or 6-speed AT / 7-speed DSG
  • Fuel Efficiency:19.4 Kmpl (MT), 18.12 Kmpl (AT) / 18.67 Kmpl (DSG)
General Specifications:
  • Front Brakes: Disc
  • Rear Brakes: Drum
  • Front Suspension: McPherson & Stabiliser Bar
  • Rear Suspension: Twist Beam Axle
  • Fuel Tank: 45 Liters
  • Length: 4561 mm
  • Width: 1752 mm
  • Height: 1507 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2651 mm
  • Tyre Size: 205/55 R16
  • Ground Clearance: 179 mm
  • Gross Vehicle Weight: 1630 Kgs (MT), 1660 Kgs (AT), 1685 Kgs (DSG)
Volkswagen Virtus Exterior Colors:
  • Rising Blue
  • Reflex Silver*
  • Candy White*
  • Curcuma Yellow
  • Wild Cherry Red*
  • Carbon Steel Grey
Note: Asterisk (*) denotes our preferred choice of colors.
 
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Volkswagen Virtus GT: Pictorial Review

Scenic images.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Doors-Open.JPG

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Side.JPG

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Lights-On.JPG

New Volkswagen logo popping out of the grille looks chic.

Volkswagen-Logo.JPG

Dual barrel headlamp with inner one only being a turn indicator.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Headlamps.JPG

Generous use of gloss black on front bumper. There's also a cornering lamp function which works below 40 Kmph.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Foglamps.JPG

Dual tone tow-hook flap isn’t a tight fit.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Tow-Hook.JPG

Driver-side windshield wiper is equipped with a wind deflector.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Wipers.JPG

Carbon Steel Grey outside rear view mirrors are exclusive to GT.

Volkswagen-Virtus-ORVM.JPG

Subtle use of chrome on door handles.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Door-Handle.JPG

GT markings are present on all four sides of the car.

Volkswagen-Virtus-GT-Fender-Badge.JPG

All-black razor alloys run on Goodyear Triple Max 2 rubber. Front disc brake calipers are painted red. The wheel nuts have a brand marking on them too.

Volkswagen-Virtus-GT-Alloy-Wheels.JPG

Trunk lip spoiler is another perk on GT version. It is also available as an official accessory for non-GT models.

Volkswagen-Virtus-GT-Boot-Spoiler.JPG

Volkswagen designers definitely know the right way to use chrome without making it over the top.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Bumper.JPG

The rear windows go almost all the way down.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Windows.JPG

Sharkfin antenna is standard on all variants except the base. Black roof is limited to GT.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Sharkfin-Antenna.JPG

Parking camera is neatly hidden above the number plate. Fonts used on badges look a bit boring. Me thinks a debadged Virtus will look sexier.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Logo.JPG

A side-by-side comparison of Volkswagen Vento vs Virtus. The latter is anyday a more mature product, rightfully belonging to a segment above.

Volkswagen-Virtus-vs-Volkswagen-Vento.jpg
 
Thread Starter #8

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DRLs are bright and give an impression of merging with chrome grille borders. LED taillamp at night remind of Thor’s hammer design from Volvo.

Volkswagen-Virtus-LED-Headlamps-Taillamps.jpg

Headlamps are very effective in the dark. Pictured below is Low Beam vs High Beam comparison.

Volkswagen-Virtus-High-Low-Beams.jpg

Just like taillamps, even the high-mounted stop lamp is Altezza type.

Volkswagen-Virtus-LED-Top-Brake-Lamps.jpg

ORVMs auto-fold upon locking the car. A clever little light opening provided so that turn indicators are visible on either side.

Volkswagen-Virtus-ORVMs.jpg

A well-organized engine bay. No exclusive 1.5L TSi markings here.

Volkswagen-Virtus-GT-Engine-Bay.JPG

Hood is non-insulated. However, NVH level is extremely controlled inside the car.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Hood-Insulation.jpg

You'll find lots of components sourced from Germany and its neighbouring countries.

Volkswagen-Virtus-German-Parts.jpg

Headlamp unit is manufactured by France-based Valeo.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Valeo-Headlamps.jpg

The battery stand is large to accommodate a bigger battery.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Battery.jpg

VIN is engraved on left-side (near fender) under the hood as well publicly visible at windshield bottom corner.

Volkswagen-Virtus-VIN-Number.jpg

Manufacturers can learn a lesson or two from VW in cost-cutting. Shockingly, body-colored fuel refill door is made up of plastic. BTW that labels reads in German language.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Fuel-Refill-Door.jpg

The 1.5 GT TSi receives genuine dual exhaust pipes, which are unfortunately tucked out of sight.

Volkswagen-Virtus-GT-Dual-Exhaust-Pipes.JPG

Front and rear doors open wide.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Rear-Door-Open-Angle.jpg

No standard door sill guards.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Rear-Door-Sills.jpg

Volkswagen Virtus scores full marks when it comes to being practical. Rear seats fold and split 60:40.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Seat-Fold.JPG

A look at the largest in segment 521 liters boot space. Boot light is rather dim for this size.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Boot-Space.JPG

Bootlid unexpectedly falls down, needs a manual push to be firmly secured. This wide cut out to accommodate door hinges inside the boot looks super cheap.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Boot-Hinge.jpg

A small flap to lift boot cardboard is a nice idea.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Boot-Tray-Hole.JPG

Spare wheel is of the same size in Performance Line but Dynamic Line gets a size smaller (195/65 R15).

Volkswagen-Virtus-Spare-Wheel.JPG
 
Thread Starter #9

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Dashboard top is flat for multi-purpose use.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Dashboard-Storage.jpg

The red interior garnish on GT variant extends to front door latch surrounds.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Door-Handle.jpg

Don't expect all the plastic panels to be scratch resistant. This is what our test car already had.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Remote-Keyless-Start.jpg

Gloss black plastics too are highly prone to scratches and smudges.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Piano-Black-Finish.jpg

Single stripe of ambient light above glovebox looks like an afterthought.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Ambience-Light.JPG

AC vents are wide and circulate the air well. The cooling seemed fine but actual test is yet to be performed under scorching sun.

Volkswagen-Virtus-AC-Vent.jpg

Fancy touch-panel to operate climate control needs driver’s attention to be taken off the road.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Auto-Climate-Control.jpg

Storage space cum wireless charger with illuminated dual C-type ports.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Wireless-Charger.jpg

Performance Line gets red-themed instrument cluster and Dynamic Line has blue. Only one dial at a time means you can’t have analogue speedo and tacho together.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Instrument-Cluster.jpg

Sadly, horn in Virtus is not the good ol’ Volkswagen type which people would crave for. The car icon on bottom corner left hand side is a non-functioning dummy button.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Steering-Controls.jpg

Paddle shifters equipped across all automatic variants on both engine options.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Stalk-Controls.jpg

L-R: Airbag warning label on both side of passenger sunvisor. Driver side visor has ticket holder but no vanity mirror. It also seems inadequate for side-use.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Sunvisors.jpg

Front and rear door pockets have a decent depth and individual 1L bottle holders.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Rear-Door-Pockets.jpg

A wider view of the front and rear door pads.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Rear-Doors-Interiors.jpg

Glovebox has normal storage space. It offers separate coin holders, visiting card holders and an adjustable cooling vent but the compartment is non-illuminated.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Glovebox-Controls.jpg

Twin front cup holders. Slavia has three instead and another cubby hole beside 12V socket.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Front-Cupholders.jpg

Nonetheless, there’s still no lack of storage space in the Virtus. Here’s one under the front armrest.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Armrest-Storage.jpg

Front armrest can slide forward with a good range.

VW-Virtus-Sliding-Armrest.jpg
 
Thread Starter #10

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Auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Inside-Rear-View-Mirror.jpg

The reverse parking camera screen display quality is pretty much average.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Parking-Camera.JPG

The interior lights are white and bright. You’ll see the headliner pushing in when operating rear light controls.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Roof-Lights.jpg

Driver side also gets the roof grab-handle. Both rear handles have coat hooks.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Grab-Handles.jpg

VW Virtus is equipped with a total six-airbags.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Airbags.jpg

Front tweeters are located on the A-Pillar.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Tweeters.jpg

Seat belts are non-height adjustable.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Seatbelt.jpg

I love these GT trim specific aluminium pedals.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Pedals.jpg

Good placement for start-stop button. Slavia has it on the traditional keyhole side. Notice cardholder on left.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Start-Stop-Button.jpg

Two-in-one lever for steering rake and reach adjustment.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Steering-Adjustment.jpg

Hood release lever is sturdy but unmarked.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Hood-Release-Lever.jpg

Shockingly manual seat adjustment. No lumbar adjust either. Front seatback lever is annoying to use, but convenient for rear passengers.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Seat-Adjust-Lever.JPG

Passenger seat ventilation button on driver’s side as well.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Ventilated-Seat-Button.jpg

Avoid keeping anything under the front seats as it’ll tangle with seat ventilation wiring.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Ventilated-Seats.jpg

Sunroof makes the interior ambience more inviting. Panoramic roof will take it to the next level.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Sunroof.jpg

It is made by Webasto, a popular name in sunroof business. And yes, it's German too.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Webasto-Sunroof.jpg

A nice little vent provided on sunroof shade to always let some light in.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Sunroof-Vent.jpg
 
Thread Starter #11

350Z

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Front seatbelt buckles are placed a bit too deep to be conveniently accessible.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Seatbelt-Latch.jpg

Floor mat hooks present only on the driver side.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Mat-Hooks.jpg

Only the driver side window receives auto up-down facility.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Power-Window-Buttons.jpg

Headlamp switch similar to other European cars. Max leveller position is 3. No storage besides it unlike in Slavia.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Headlamp-Leveler.jpg

12V socket plastic cover is surely the cheapest bit in the entire cabin.

Volkswagen-Virtus-12V-Socket.jpg

Air-conditioner vents at rear are a standard feature nowadays. It’s their effectiveness in summers which remains to be seen.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-AC-Vents.jpg

A couple of C-type charging ports for cellphones.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Mobile-Charger.jpg

Headrests when up fully block the visibility. Even though three provided, the rear seat is best for two adults.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Seat-Headrests.jpg

This armrest is one of the most comfortable ones that I’ve seen in the recent times.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Armrest.jpg

No separate mobile-pocket which the Skoda Slavia offers.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Scooped-Seatback.jpg

Legroom is enormous even with a six-footer sitting in front. This image shows minimum and maximum space.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Legroom.jpg

Headliner is flimsy. Observe how it’s curved to allow more headroom for rear passengers.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Curved-Rear-Roof.jpg

Floor hump is not a problem anymore compared to Volkswagen Vento.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Floor-Hump.jpg

A relatively wide rear quarter glass contributes to roominess.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Rear-Quarter-Glass.jpg

Parcel-shelf appeared loosely fitted. Subwoofers are not offered with Virtus.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Parcel-Shelf.jpg

Neat looking leatherette doc-holder provided to store ownership manual and vehicle documents.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Leather-Folder.jpg

Keyfob is made by Hella (German, again). It's easy to carry around and comes with a manual key that's useful in case of emergency.

Volkswagen-Virtus-Keyfob.jpg

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The Virtus good sporty than Slavia. If they were slightly lower, the sedan would have been prefect in stance. The 1.5GT is something which ignites the 'lust' in enthusiasts. The 1.0TSI always punches above it's weight. I have a stage1 tuned Skoda Rapid 1.0 TSI and it's a joy to drive.
 
Thread Starter #15

350Z

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Latin NCAP has awarded 5-stars to the made-in-India Volkswagen Virtus.


Volkswagen-Virtus-Latin-NCAP.jpg

Volkswagen-Virtus-Latin-NCAP-Front.jpg

Volkswagen-Virtus-Latin-NCAP-Side.jpg

Drive Safe,
350Z
 

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