Volkswagen Virtus: A Quick Review
The Volkswagen Virtus, priced between Rs. 11.56 lakh to Rs. 19.14 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), offers a compelling choice in the sedan segment with its two main variants: the Dynamic Line (Comfortline, Highline, and Topline) and the Performance Line (GT Plus). It presents a palette of eight colour options, including Lava Blue, Curcuma Yellow, Wild Cherry Red, Rising Blue, Candy White, Reflex Silver Deep Pearl Black and Carbon Steel Grey, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.
Engine choices include a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol (113.42 Bhp/178 Nm) with options for both manual and automatic transmissions and a more powerful 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (147.94 Bhp /250 Nm) offered with a 7-speed DCT or a 6-speed manual. These engines achieve impressive fuel efficiencies ranging from 18.45 kmpl to 20.08 kmpl, with the 1.5-litre variant benefiting from cylinder deactivation technology for enhanced efficiency.
With a spacious boot capacity of 521 litres, the Virtus accommodates ample luggage for long journeys or daily commutes.
Notable features encompass a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, push-button start/stop, an 8-inch fully digital driver display, a sunroof, wireless phone charging, and ventilated front seats, ensuring a modern and comfortable driving experience.
Safety is paramount, and the standard six airbags, ESC, hill hold assist, ISOFIX anchors, rain-sensing wipers, and rear parking sensors provide peace of mind on the road.
Check out: Volkswagen Virtus Variants
Popularity of Volkswagen Virtus in India
Since its launch in India, the Volkswagen Virtus has garnered significant popularity. It appeals to a wide range of customers looking for a stylish, feature-rich, and performance-oriented sedan. The Virtus is positioned to cater to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers who seek a blend of European design, advanced technology, and robust performance.
The sedan boasts a spacious interior with high-quality materials, offering a premium feel that stands out in its segment. One of the key factors contributing to Virtus' popularity is its contemporary and sleek design, which resonates well with younger buyers and professionals.
In addition to its performance and aesthetics, the Virtus is equipped with a host of advanced features, including a digital cockpit, an extensive touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and multiple safety features such as six airbags, ABS, and ESC. Its powerful and efficient engines deliver a spirited driving experience, making it a favourite among driving enthusiasts.
Moreover, Volkswagen's strong brand reputation and expanding service network in India further boost Virtus' desirability. The combination of its stylish design, advanced features, and reliable performance makes the Volkswagen Virtus a popular choice in the Indian sedan market.
Read More: Volkswagen Virtus Dimensions
Top 4 Volkswagen Virtus Alternatives in India
The following are the top 4 Volkswagen Virtus alternatives in India:
1. Hyundai Verna
The Hyundai Verna is a popular mid-size sedan in India. Its sleek design, smooth performance, and advanced features have acquired critical acclaim. The Verna has become one of the most popular sedans in the country, and it has been undergoing significant changes over the years. Here are the key features and specs:
The bold face, LED DRL strip, and sporty grille give it a modern look from the front. At the front, it features a striking black chrome parametric grille, a connected LED DRL strip, sleek bumper-mounted LED headlamps, and cornering lamps.
Check out: Hyundai Verna Variants
The Hyundai Verna's interior has been completely revamped, giving it a more mature and refined look. The dashboard features a dual-tone design dominated by an extensive floating touchscreen infotainment system. The unique two-spoke steering wheel and digital instrument cluster enhance the modern feel of the interior. Leather accents are found throughout the cabin, adding a touch of luxury.
It offers two petrol engine options. The first is a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine delivering 157.57 bhp and 253 Nm of torque, available with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT. The second option is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 113.18 bhp and 143.8 Nm of torque, which can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or an IVT gearbox.
Hyundai Verna's base models include safety features like ABS, six airbags, reverse parking sensors, EBD, rear defogger, automatic headlamps, high-speed warning system, seatbelt reminder, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and more. The top sedan models get additional features such as hill-start assist, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, front parking sensors, a rear camera, TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), an electric parking brake (DCT only), etc.
2. Skoda Slavia
Renowned for its stylish appearance, the Skoda Slavia is a sedan that comes with rich features and a combination of stylishness and elegance. It combines advanced technology, sleek looks, and comfortable interiors to ensure a premium driving experience in its category.
The Skoda Slavia features a modern, sleek exterior that appeals to Indian drivers. Its strong front includes sharp LED daytime running lights in the headlights and a prominent Skoda grille, offering a bold look. The sculpted hood and a roofline add to its sporty appearance. The flared wheel arches and stylish alloy wheels deserve special mention.
Check out: Skoda Slavia Variants
Inside the car, a prominent bronze strip complements the floating touchscreen infotainment system in the centre. Comfort is a priority; spacious front and rear seats provide excellent support. Higher-end models include ventilated front seats for added comfort, although the shoulder room for three passengers might need consideration. There are chrome-accented AC vents that improve simplicity.
The Skoda Slavia comes with two turbo-petrol engine options, each offering different levels of power and performance. The first is a 1.0-litre engine that produces 113.98 bhp and 178 Nm of torque. The second is a more powerful 1.5-litre engine with 147.51 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. These choices cater to different driving styles and efficiency needs. Both variants come with a six-speed manual gearbox, which is standard. The automatic variant includes the 6-speed torque converter for its 1.0-litre engine and the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox for the 1.5-litre engine.
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The safety features include dual front airbags, EBD, ABS, Multi Collision Braking, Electronic Differential Lock System, Electronic Stability Control, front seatbelt reminder, traction control, TPMS, rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. The top models include six airbags, auto-dimming inside rearview mirror, hill-hold control, and a reverse parking camera.
3. Maruti Suzuki Ciaz
Striking the right balance between practicality and style, the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz boasts a roomy interior and fuel-saving engines. It's a popular choice for many drivers. This mid-size sedan continues to impress with its sleek design, great features, and comfortable ride.
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz flaunts a stylish and classy exterior design. It features a sleek grille with chrome details alongside sharp LED headlamps. The sporty bumper includes a wide air dam and fog lamps, while the long hood with subtle lines adds a strong appearance.
Check out: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz Variants
Its cabin is roomy and stylish. Inside, you'll find a premium feel with a combination of beige and black colours, soft-touch materials on the dashboard, and silver accents. In the top-level version, leather upholstery adds to the luxurious vibe. The seats are comfy and supportive, offering plenty of legroom and headspace for everyone. The back seats are incredibly cosy, with enough legroom even for taller folks, and higher trims come with adjustable headrests.
Maruti outfits the Ciaz with a 1.5-litre petrol engine offering 103.25 bhp and 138 Nm of torque. You can choose between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Ciaz's performance shows Maruti's dedication to making driving fun and exciting.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Ciaz All Specifications
The Maruti Suzuki Ciaz has excellent safety features, such as dual front airbags, EBD, ABS, reverse parking sensors, ISOFIX child seat mounts, front seatbelt reminder, a high-speed alert system, hill-hold assist, and an Electronic Stability Program. The top-level versions also have automatic headlamps, a reverse parking camera, and front fog lamps. While the sedan has all the essential safety features, it doesn't have extras like six airbags and TPMS.
4. Honda City
The Honda City has been an appreciated mid-size sedan among Indian automobile consumers. A popular choice for years, it has won over Indian drivers with its sporty design, reliable performance, and roomy interior. It has always been one of the best-selling vehicles in its class in India. Honda has given the new City a makeover with a slew of inside and exterior improvements, carrying on the vehicle's tradition.
The Honda City exudes a sporty presence highlighted by its bold honeycomb grille and prominent chrome strip at the front. Integrated seamlessly into the grille, sleek LED headlights with LED DRLs complete the modern look, complemented by a sporty front bumper and faux carbon fibre accents on the chin for added aggression.
Check out: Honda City Variants
Its interior is classy, featuring a dual-tone dashboard with a large touchscreen for infotainment. Silver accents on the steering wheel, AC vents, and gear shifter add a touch of style. The cabin stands out with its high-quality materials and precise finishing.
The rear seats offer good knee and shoulder room, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. Storage options include spacious door pockets, cup holders, room under the front armrest, and ample space for your phone.
Also Read: Honda City All Specifications
The Honda City features a strong 1.5-litre petrol engine known for its powerful performance. This four-cylinder engine produces 119.3 bhp, ensuring an engaging drive. It delivers 145 Nm of torque, making acceleration smooth and effortless. The performance highlights Honda's dedication to creating enjoyable driving experiences.
The top-spec and hybrid models offer extra safety features like ADAS with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These models also include six airbags and a lane watch camera for added safety.
Comparison Table: Volkswagen Virtus vs Alternatives
Here are the specs and features of Volkswagen Virtus and alternatives mentioned in a tabulated format: