The Volkswagen Virtus has become a popular choice in India’s premium sedan market, combining German engineering, sharp styling, and a spacious cabin with modern features. Built on the MQB-A0-IN platform, it offers two engine options — a 1.0-litre TSI petrol for efficiency and a 1.5-litre TSI petrol with Active Cylinder Technology for added performance. Positioned as a rival to the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and Škoda Slavia, the Virtus is praised for its driving dynamics and solid build quality.
Until recently, though, the Virtus was burdened by India’s older GST framework. As a mid-size sedan (over 4 metres, up to 1.5L engines), it attracted 28% GST and 17% cess, taking the total tax to 45%. This pushed ex-showroom prices higher, particularly for top-end 1.5 TSI DSG variants, limiting affordability in a highly competitive segment.
With the rollout of GST 2.0, effective from September 22, 2025, the cess has been eliminated, and mid-size sedans like the Virtus are now taxed at a flat 40% GST rate. This 5% reduction has brought a significant price cut of ₹40,000–₹1.63 lakhs, making the Virtus more appealing to buyers looking for a premium sedan at a better value.