2022 Volkswagen Virtus unveiled in India, bookings open
Soon after the launch of the Skoda Slavia, Volkswagen India has now revealed its version of the MQB-A0-IN-based sedan. This Vento replacement is called the Volkswagen Virtus but is larger and much more feature-packed than earlier. Like with the Taigun, there is also a separate GT lineup for the more powerful 1.5-litre TSI powered versions. Bookings for the Virtus have begun online and at VW dealerships across India.
2022 Volkswagen Virtus exterior, dimensionsVolkswagen Virtus draws significant inspiration from larger VW sedans like the Passat and the US-spec Jetta. This is seen with the wide, rectangular headlamps, with their LED lighting and L-shaped DRLs, and in the simple grille with the single chrome band running across. Also striking is a large airdam in the bumper and well as the large, angular fog lamp inserts. The Virtus also seem to have a flatter bonnet than the Slavia in keeping with the brand differentiation. The two sedans are quite similar in profile with the slight coupe roofline but at the rear of the Virtus, there is a flatter two-part taillamp cluster with intricate LED detailing and a squarer boot design.
The Performance versions ramp up the sportiness with the gloss black bumper elements, red brake callipers, GT badging, contrasting black roof, black mirrors, black alloy wheels and a boot spoiler. The Dynamic line features more chrome and softer colour options. The Virtus is the longest sedan in its segment at 4,561mm long. It is 1,752mm wide and 1,507mm tall. This makes it 20mm longer and taller than the Slavia, although both share the same 2,651 mm wheelbase.
2022 Volkswagen Virtus interior, features, safetyThe Volkswagen Virtus features a horizontally themed dash design, while different from the flashier look in the Slavia. This theme carries through with the sharp-edged instrument binnacle housing the 7-inch digital instrumentation, the flat dash fascia housing the 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple Carplay, the simple angular air vents and the horizontal motifs along the passenger sides of the dash. There is the new Volkswagen steering wheel while the lower half now features the familiar capacitive touch climate controls. The GT versions add the red highlighting with darker cabin materials and upholstery with contrasting stitching.
The features list includes standard LED lighting, standard eight speakers, single-pane sunroof, climate control, auto headlamps and wipers, wireless charging, ventilated seats, push-button start, 60:40 split seats(GT only) and a cooled glove box.
Notable standard safety features on the Virtus include stability control, hill-hold, tyre deflation warning, electronic differential lock and multi-collision braking. Higher spec cars get up to six airbags and a reversing camera.
2022 Volkswagen Virtus engine, specificationsThe Volkswagen Virtus shares its engine and gearbox options with the Taigun. The split is also the same with the Dynamic line being powered by the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol putting out 115PS and 178 Nm. This pairs with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic. The GT versions in the Performance line are powered by the 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol. This motor features cylinder deactivation and puts out 150PS and 250 Nm, pairing with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DCT. Both offer a start-stop function.
2022 Volkswagen Virtus expected price, launch dateThe Volkswagen Virtus should be priced very closely to the Skoda Slavia, so expect prices to range between Rs 10 to 17 lakh, ex-showroom. The Volkswagen sedan should launch in India next month, competing most closely with its Skoda cousin as well as the Honda City, Maruti Suzuki Ciaz and Hyundai Verna.
Also read,
Near-production Volkswagen Virtus spied ahead of expected March unveil
All-new Skoda Slavia 1.0 TSI launched at Rs 10.69 lakh (ex-showroom)