The sedan in question is the Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI MT manual and based on its price, it serves as the entry-level model for the sedan’s lineup in India. Prices for the Comfortline trim start at Rs 11.21 lakh (ex-showroom) and go up to Rs 14.41 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Topline version that is seen here. It uses the same three-cylinder, 1.0-liter, direct-injection, TSI turbo-petrol engine with 115 horsepower and 178 Nm as the Virtus 1.0 TSI AT we’ve previously highlighted, but with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Performance and refinement in the Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI MT
There are other factors to take into account besides the fact that it may be the starting point for the Virtus range. The engine and transmission combination has some appeal. You won’t have any trouble keeping up with traffic because the engine starts up easily and performs admirably. There is some reluctance under 1,800 rpm when you press down hard for a quick overtaking from low speeds, but beyond that, you won’t be lacking in power at all. The fact that the gear ratios were carefully chosen so you won’t need to change gears very frequently really enhances the experience in town. The clutch is quite progressive and easy to adjust, and gear shifts are very smooth.
In order to save gasoline, the Virtus comes equipped with an idle stop-start, but on hot days you’d definitely override the system to keep the air conditioning running. The wonderful realization that the vibrations generally associated with a three-cylinder engine are lacking would occur when you’re idling at those long stops. Even at typical speeds, you won’t really hear much coming from the engine compartment. When you accelerate more aggressively, you’ll notice that the note is a little gritty, and the engine does become rather noticeable.
The problem is that this engine will occasionally tempt you to drive enthusiastically. Mid-range acceleration feels brisk, and if you push it all the way, it will even go well over 6,000 rpm. You’ll enjoy pounding through the gears when the mood strikes you as well.
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VW Virtus 1.0 TSI MT: handling and riding
Sharp handling complements that performance. It feels poised and is fun in spots. However, experienced drivers would have preferred slightly heavier steering. This Virtus is identical to the previous models we’ve driven in other respects. You’ll enjoy the European cars’ agility at greater speeds, and you’ll notice how nicely the suspension smooths out bumps at slower speeds.
Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI MT: features and interior
The Virtus offers a large list of advantages elsewhere as well. Highlights include a sleek dashboard (although there are no soft-touch materials), roomy and supportive front seats, excellent rear legroom, and a sizable 521-liter cargo. The Virtus Topline trim’s features are commendable, including a roomy 10-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an eight-speaker music system, digital dials, and incredibly useful ventilated front seats. Six airbags and ESC are included in the safety system, but the overall ruggedness of the automobile is what stays with you.
Volkswagen Virtus’s design and aesthetics for the 1.0 TSI MT
The Volkswagen Virtus is a stylish sedan that has that crucial “large vehicle” aura. The Dynamic Line variant of the 1.0 TSI comes with sharp chrome trim and diamond-cut alloy wheels for the exterior. For reference, Performance Line models can be distinguished by their darkened wheels and more subdued chrome application.
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Volkswagen Virtus 1.0 TSI MT: verdict
A manual version is not one that we would enthusiastically suggest given our deteriorating traffic conditions. The Virtus 1.0 TSI MT is different from the Slavia, its cousin from Skoda, in that respect. It’s a car you can drive around town with ease while still having the excitement you’d expect from a manual vehicle. It’s even more intriguing given that it costs Rs 1.3 lakh less than a comparable Virtus 1.0 AT “as read and reported by www.autocarindia.com”.