About Volkswagen Virtus

The Volkswagen Virtus is a premium midsize sedan from the German automaker's stable. It features typical Volkswagen design elements on the exterior with premium styling that reflects the classic sedan silhouette. It is also the longest and widest car in its segment, giving it a commendable road presence. The expansive list of premium features, a 5-star Global NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) safety rating, and excellent build quality make the Virtus a premium offering in the midsize sedan segment.

The Volkswagen Virtus has two petrol engine options: a 1-litre turbocharged engine and a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. The 1-litre engine is coupled with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 1.5-litre engine is mated to a 7-speed DSG gearbox. Overall, it combines premium looks, excellent build quality, and a host of creature comfort and safety features. It can perfectly fit the bill if you are in the market for a premium midsize sedan.

Volkswagen Virtus Highlights

Some of the key highlights of the 2023 Volkswagen Virtus include:

Price: The VW Virtus price starts at ₹12.82 lakhs (on-road price Delhi) for the base variant and goes up to ₹22.47 lakhs (on-road price Delhi) for the top-spec variant.
Launch Date: Volkswagen introduced the latest Virtus model in India on March 22, 2023. This new model brought refreshed styling, updated features, and new variant options for customers.
Configurations: The Volkswagen Virtus is offered in 2 broad trim lines: the Dynamic Line and the Performance Line. Across variants, you get unique options for the engine, transmission, seating layouts, colour choices, etc.

What is the Ex-Showroom Price of the Volkswagen Virtus?

The Volkswagen Virtus is attractively priced between ₹11.56 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi) and ₹19.41 lakhs (ex-showroom Delhi), catering to a wide range of budgets.

What is the On-Road Price of the Volkswagen Virtus?

The Volkswagen Virtus on-road price starts at ₹12.82 lakhs (on-road price Delhi) for the base variant. The top-spec model is priced at ₹22.47 lakhs (on-road price Delhi).

Volkswagen Virtus Models and Price

This section details the Volkswagen Virtus's price, including the base and top models.

Base Model Price: The Volkswagen Virtus price of the base petrol variant stands at ₹12.82 lakhs (on-road price Delhi).
Top Model Price: The Volkswagen Virtus petrol top model costs ₹22.47 lakhs (on-road price Delhi).
Automatic Model Price: The Volkswagen Virtus petrol automatic price tag starts at ₹16.53 lakhs (on-road price Delhi) and goes up to ₹22.47 lakhs (on-road price Delhi).

Volkswagen Virtus Car Price in India

Here’s the price list of the Volkswagen Virtus in different cities.

Volkswagen Virtus: Quick Review

The following sections highlight the various aspects of the Volkswagen Virtus, including exterior, interior, features, performance, and safety.

Exterior Design

The Volkswagen Virtus boasts a sleek and modern exterior design that will turn heads on the road. The car's front fascia features a bold chrome grille with the iconic VW logo, flanked by sharp LED headlights that provide excellent visibility on the road. The sculpted bonnet adds to the car's sporty and aerodynamic look. Moving to the sides, it features clean and elegant lines that give the car a sophisticated look. The prominent shoulder line provides the sedan with a sporty look, and the 16-inch alloy wheels add to the car's sporty appeal and provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The car's side mirrors are electrically adjustable, and the door handles feature a chrome finish that adds a touch of luxury to the car's exterior design.

At the rear, it features sleek LED tail lights that wrap around the car, providing excellent visibility for other drivers on the road. The car's boot lid is designed to integrate smoothly with the car's body, giving the car a seamless and sophisticated look. Overall, the Volkswagen Virtus is a stunning example of modern automotive design, and its sleek and sporty exterior is sure to appeal to drivers who value both form and function.

Interior and Features

The Volkswagen Virtus features a premium, sophisticated interior design that impresses car enthusiasts. The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials, including good-quality plastics and leatherette upholstery, giving it a luxurious feel. The black and beige dual-tone theme with silver accents on the dashboard and door panels adds to the elegance of the cabin. It offers comfortable front and rear seats. However, it is best suited for four occupants as the rear seat does not provide enough space for the centre rear passenger.

The sedan has a 25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, providing seamless smartphone connectivity. The instrument cluster is a fully digital 8-inch unit that displays all the vital information about the car, including speed, fuel level, etc. The automatic climate control system ensures a comfortable ride for passengers, and the rear AC vents add to the convenience. Other prominent features include an electric sunroof, wireless charging, cruise control, ventilated front seats, etc. Overall, the Volkswagen Virtus interior design is impressive and provides a premium experience for its passengers.

Volkswagen Virtus Engine and Transmission

Engine CC (Capacity)

The Volkswagen Virtus is powered by two turbo-petrol engine options for customers with different driving requirements. The 1.0L TSI petrol is a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbocharged motor with a 999 cc displacement capacity. It generates a peak power output of 115 bhp and a maximum torque of 178 Nm. On the other hand, the 1.5L TSI petrol is a 4-cylinder turbocharged motor with a 1498 cc displacement capacity. Power output stands at 150 bhp and 250 Nm of peak torque, enabling strong acceleration.

Transmission

The transmission choices for the 1.5L turbo variant are a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed DSG. The torque converter offers smooth gear shifts for comfortable city driving, while the DSG has lightning-quick shifts and is tuned for enthusiastic performance. The 1-litre engine gets a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Performance

The Volkswagen Virtus offers confident high-speed stability complemented by composed ride and handling. The steering weighs up nicely at speed, imparting an assuring feel. Enthusiasts will enjoy the GT variants' flat cornering capabilities and minimal body roll. Refinement levels are impressive across variants.

Top Speed

The Volkswagen Virtus offers top-notch performance with a top speed of approximately 190 km/h. Its powerful engine options facilitate this capability, including the 1.0L TSI engine producing 115 bhp and the more powerful 1.5L TSI EVO engine generating 150 bhp. These engines and advanced transmission systems contribute to its improved driving experience while maintaining fuel efficiency and performance balance.

Mileage

The Volkswagen Virtus offers impressive mileage, making it an economical choice for sedan enthusiasts. The Dynamic Line, powered by the 1.0L TSI engine, achieves a fuel efficiency of 20.08 km/l (manual transmission) and 18.45 km/l (automatic transmission). Meanwhile, the Performance Line, equipped with the 1.5L TSI EVO engine, delivers around 18.88 km/l (manual transmission) and 19.62 km/l (manual transmission).

Both variants feature an idle start/stop function that optimises fuel consumption by shutting off the engine when stationary and restarting it when needed. This combination of performance and efficiency makes the Virtus a compelling option for those seeking a balance between power and economy in their daily drives.

Ground Clearance

With a ground clearance of 179 mm, the Volkswagen Virtus can tackle speed breakers, potholes, and uneven roads without scraping its underbody. It makes it practical for Indian road conditions.

Boot Space

The Volkswagen Virtus offers generous luggage capacity with its 521-litre boot space, which can accommodate multiple bags or suitcases for weekend family getaways. The rear seats also fold down to transport extra-large items when required.

Dimensions

The Volkswagen Virtus has the following dimensions -

Overall length: 4561 mm
Overall width: 1752 mm
Overall height: 1507 mm
Wheelbase: 2651 mm

Colours

The Volkswagen Virtus is available in eight vibrant colour options. These colour choices allow buyers to select a shade that best matches their style while ensuring it stands out. The options include:

Wild Cherry Red
Curcuma Yellow
Rising Blue Metallic
Candy White
Reflex Silver
Carbon Steel Grey
Lava Blue
Deep Black Pearl

Variants

The Volkswagen Virtus has two broad variants, each offering a unique powertrain and convenient features. The variants are mentioned below,

1. Dynamic Line: This variant has a powerful 1.0L TSI engine packed with all the essential features.

2. Performance Line: The higher-end model has a 1.5 TSI EVO engine and offers advanced safety and convenience features.

The Dynamic Line focuses on comfort and practicality, featuring premium dual-tone interiors and a 25.65 cm touchscreen infotainment system. In contrast, the Performance Line emphasises sportiness with a distinctive GT design, ventilated front seats, multi-drive modes, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Here’s a comparison table of all the variants to help you understand better -

Feature	Dynamic Line (1.0 TSI)	Performance Line (1.5 TSI)
Airbags	Up to 6	Up to 6
LED Head Lamp	✔️	✔️
LED Tail Lamp	✔️	✔️
LED DRLs	✔️	✔️
Flush Door Handle	-	✔️
Electronic Stability Program	✔️	✔️
Multi-Drive Modes	✔️	✔️
Steering Wheel	Electromechanical (power-assisted	Electromechanical (power-assisted
Infotainment System	25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment	25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment
Speakers	8	8
Wheels	205/55 R16	205/55 R16
Sunroof	✔️	✔️
Climate Control	Smart touch Climatronic AC	Smart touch Climatronic AC
Instrument Cluster	20.32 cm Digital cockpit	20.32 cm Digital cockpit
Wireless Charging	✔️	✔️
Powered Driver Seat	Height adjustable	Height adjustable
Ventilated Front Seats	✔️	✔️
ADAS Features	✔️	✔️
iRA Connected Car Technology	Standard	Standard
Powered Tailgate	✔️	✔️

Note: This table offers a general overview; certain features may vary depending on the model year. Refer to the official Volkswagen Virtus website and product brochure for the most up-to-date details.

Which is the Most Value-for-Money Variant?

The Dynamic Line of the Volkswagen Virtus is the most value-for-money option, thanks to its well-rounded features, efficient engine choice, and affordable pricing. It strikes a great balance between comfort, technology, and safety without adding unnecessary costs. For buyers looking for a reliable sedan that meets everyday needs while offering excellent value, the Dynamic Line is a fantastic option.

Features

The Dynamic Line has a 25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment system paired with 8 speakers, providing an enjoyable audio experience. Inside, you’ll find premium dual-tone materials and leatherette upholstery that enhance style and comfort. Handy features like wireless mobile charging, smart touch climate control, and a roomy 521-litre boot make it perfect for daily driving and longer trips. In terms of convenience, the Dynamic Line includes essential safety features like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and multiple airbags (up to 6), ensuring a safe drive. It also comes with rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, which makes parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces easier.

Safety

Safety is critical when choosing a car; the Dynamic Line shines in this area. It has earned a 5-star G-NCAP safety rating, showing Volkswagen’s dedication to making safe cars. The Dynamic Line has over 40 safety features, including up to 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Multi-collision brakes, Hill Hold Control, Tyre pressure monitoring system, etc. These features work together to provide a high level of safety for both drivers and passengers. Including these advanced safety systems ensures that the Dynamic Line is a practical and safe option for families and individual drivers alike.

Powertrain Options

The Dynamic Line is powered by a 1.0L TSI engine that produces 115 bhp of power and 178 Nm of torque. Depending on their preference, buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine also includes an idle start/stop feature that saves fuel by automatically turning off the engine when the car is stopped and restarting it when needed. This helps the Dynamic Line achieve an impressive fuel efficiency of 20.08 km/l (manual transmission) and 18.45 km/l (automatic transmission), making it an economical choice for daily commutes.

Price Point

One of the biggest reasons to pick the Dynamic Line is its affordable pricing. Positioned below the Performance Line, it offers many features and a high level of safety at a lower cost. This makes it a smart choice for buyers who want a well-equipped sedan without going over budget. The price of the Volkswagen Virtus Dynamic Line starts at ₹12.82 lakhs (on-road Delhi) and goes up to ₹19.77 lakhs (on-road Delhi). Its efficient engine and excellent safety features make it an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable sedan that delivers value without compromise.

Safety

The Volkswagen Virtus focuses heavily on safety, earning an impressive 5-star G-NCAP safety rating for adults and children. This recognition shows Volkswagen's dedication to building vehicles that meet high safety standards. It has over 40 safety features to ensure all passengers are well-protected. One of the key safety features is up to 6 airbags, which protect the occupants in case of a crash. The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system helps keep the car steady by detecting if it's skidding and adjusting the power to prevent it. Additionally, features like multi-collision brakes automatically apply the brakes after an initial impact to reduce the severity of accidents.

Key Safety Features

6 airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Multi-collision brakes
Hill Hold Control
Tyre pressure deflation warning
Reversing camera
Front fog lamps
Parking sensors (rear)
ISOFIX child seat anchorage
Speed-sensing door lock

The Virtus is equipped with ISOFIX child seat anchorage for child safety, ensuring child seats can be securely installed. The car also comes with multiple headrests, seat belt reminders, and a speed-sensing door lock system, all designed to improve passenger safety. Overall, the Volkswagen Virtus stands out in its class in terms of safety. It combines advanced safety technology with practical features to keep everyone secure in different driving conditions. This makes the Virtus a smart choice for families and individuals, offering peace of mind on every trip.

Volkswagen Virtus vs Rivals

The Virtus competes with stalwart midsize sedans like the Honda City, Hyundai Verna, and Maruti Ciaz. Its distinctive styling, feature-packed interiors, and capable petrol engines help it hold its own against established rivals.

Volkswagen Virtus vs Honda City: Which is Better?

Let’s compare the features of these two cars to see which one will be a better choice for you

Feature	Volkswagen Virtus	Honda City
Airbags	6	6
Dimension (L x W x H)	4561 mm x 1752 mm x 1507 mm	4583 mm x 1748 mm x 1489 mm
Wheelbase	2651 mm	2600 mm
Infotainment System	25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment	8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Smartphone Connectivity	Wireless connectivity available	Wireless connectivity available
Digital Instrument Cluster	20.32 cm Digital cockpit	7-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
Drive Modes	Multiple drive modes	Normal, Sport, ECON, Snow
Wireless Charging	Yes	Yes
Suspension (Front)	McPherson suspension and stabiliser bar	McPherson Strut with Coil Spring
Suspension (Rear)	Twist beam axle	Torsion beam with Coil Spring
Engine Options	999 cc (Dynamic Line) and 1498 cc (Performance Line)	1498 cc only
Fuel Type	Petrol	Petrol
Transmission Options	Manual and Automatic	Manual and Automatic
Comfort Features	Ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, electric sunroof	Leather upholstery, automatic climate control
Connected Car Technology	MyVolkswagen Connect	Honda Connect with remote features
Special Features	Paddle shifter and Cruise control, Driver-side window auto up/down with pinch guard	Honda's Lane Watch camera

Volkswagen Virtus vs Hyundai Verna: Which is Better?

Here’s a comparison of the two cars to see which will be the better option -

Feature	Volkswagen Virtus	Hyundai Verna
Airbags	6	6
Dimension (L x W x H)	4561 mm x 1752 mm x 1507 mm	4535 mm x 1765 mm x 1475 mm
Wheelbase	2651 mm	2670 mm
Infotainment System	25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment	10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Smartphone Connectivity	Wireless connectivity available	Wired connectivity available
Digital Instrument Cluster	20.32 cm Digital cockpit	10.25-inch Fully Digital Instrument Cluster
Drive Modes	Multiple drive modes are available	Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes available
Wireless Charging	Yes	Yes
Suspension (Front)	McPherson suspension and stabiliser bar	MacPherson strut
Suspension (Rear)	Twist beam axle	Multi-link
Engine Options	999 cc (Dynamic Line) and 1498 cc (Performance Line)	1482 cc - 1497 cc
Fuel Type	Petrol	Petrol
Transmission Options	Manual and Automatic	Manual and Automatic
Comfort Features	Ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, electric sunroof	Ventilated and heated front seats
Connected Car Technology	MyVolkswagen Connect	Yes, with remote features through Hyundai's app
Special Features	Paddle shifter and Cruise control, Driver-side window auto up/down with pinch guard	64-colour ambient lighting

Volkswagen Virtus vs Maruti Ciaz: Which is Better?

Check out the comparison of these two cars to see how they perform against one another -

Feature	Volkswagen Virtus	Maruti Ciaz
Airbags	6	6
Dimension (L x W x H)	4561 mm x 1752 mm x 1507 mm	4490 mm x 1730 mm x 1485 mm
Wheelbase	2651 mm	2650 mm
Infotainment System	25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment	7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Smartphone Connectivity	Wireless connectivity available	Wired connectivity available
Digital Instrument Cluster	20.32 cm Digital cockpit	7-inch
Drive Modes	Multiple drive modes	-
Wireless Charging	Yes	Yes
Suspension (Front)	McPherson suspension and stabiliser bar	MacPherson strut
Suspension (Rear)	Twist beam axle	Torsion beam
Engine Options	999 cc (Dynamic Line) and 1498 cc (Performance Line)	1462 cc
Fuel Type	Petrol	Petrol
Transmission Options	Manual and Automatic options are available	Manual and Automatic options are available
Comfort Features	Ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, electric sunroof	Automatic climate control
Connected Car Technology	MyVolkswagen Connect	Yes, with remote features
Special Features	Paddle shifter and Cruise control, Driver-side window auto up/down with pinch guard	Keyless entry

Volkswagen Virtus: Old vs. New

The comparison between the old and new Volkswagen Virtus highlights significant advancements in exterior styling, cabin features, and powertrain options.

Exterior Styling

The previous generation of the sedan featured a more traditional sedan design with less aggressive styling. Its front fascia included standard halogen headlights and a simpler grille design, which lacked the modern touches seen in newer vehicles. The latest Virtus showcases a striking design with a more aggressive stance. It includes sharp LED headlamps with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs), a prominent chrome grille, and sleek body lines that enhance its aerodynamic profile.

Cabin and Features

Inside, the new Virtus offers a significantly upgraded cabin experience. It features a dual-tone dashboard with a high-gloss black "island" that houses a 25.65 cm VW Play touchscreen infotainment system with 8 speakers. It provides seamless connectivity with Wireless AppConnect, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

The cabin is adorned with premium materials, including leatherette upholstery, enhancing comfort for both the driver and passengers. In contrast, the old model's interior was simpler, lacking the new version's advanced technology and premium finishes. The new Virtus also includes a 20.32 cm digital cockpit, allowing for customisable displays that enhance the driving experience.

Powertrain Options

The previous Virtus model had two engine options: a 1.0L TSI petrol engine producing 115 bhp and a 1.5L TSI engine generating 150 bhp. Transmission choices included manual and automatic options, but they lacked some advanced technologies in newer models.

The updated Virtus continues to offer both engines but introduces cylinder deactivation technology in the 1.5L variant for improved fuel efficiency. The powertrains are paired with more advanced transmission options, including a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) for smoother gear shifts and enhanced performance.

Pros and Cons of Volkswagen Virtus

Pros

Stylish and classy exterior design.
A features-loaded interior.
Largest boot space in its segment.
5-star G-NCAP safety rating.
Powerful petrol engine options.

Cons

No diesel engine is on offer.
The rear seat is not comfortable for three occupants.
The interior fit and finish could have been better.