Bigger, better, faster is a trend in the motoring world that, in Volkswagen’s case, has seen the original Mk1 Golf GTI morph from being rabbit-like in nature to that of a hare. The smaller Polo hatchback has effectively filled the gap left by the growing Golf and is now the ‘rabbit’ in the range. However, the difference between a rabbit and a hare is, well, hares are just faster. Or are they, because Volkswagen has just launched it’s new Polo GTI and this rabbit has a serious pair of you-know-whats!

Under the bonnet is a retuned version of the 2009 International Engine of the Year, a turbocharged and supercharged 1.4-litre petrol engine with direct-injection. The 132 kW 16-valve four-cylinder engine reaches its maximum power at 6 200 r/min, while maximum torque of 250 Nm is available between 2 000 – 4 500 r/min. It’s a free revving unit with barely a hint of turbo lag, thanks to the supercharger that provides low-down punch before the turbo joins the party from around 3 500 r/min. The twincharger configuration may sound like a complicated affair, but its seamless in its power delivery and the Volkswagen engineers have given it a great soundtrack to boot.

Power is transferred to the front wheels via a 7-speed DSG, which is smooth and fast, adding to the Polo GTI’s responsive and lively character. At the same time, it’s the most fuel efficient and lowest emitting GTI ever, with VW claiming combined fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 139 g/km. Weighing in at 1 269 kgs, the Polo GTI accelerates to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds (matching the Golf GTI) and reaches a top speed of 229 km/h – just 9 km/h less than the Golf GTI.

The top performing model in the Polo range has been given the running gear to match the fire in its belly. A sportier chassis includes ESP and Volkswagen’s XDS electronic transverse differential lock. The XDS system, borrowed from the bigger Golf GTI, essentially acts as a faux differential by braking which ever front wheel begins to spin when under heavy acceleration, thereby maximising traction. The suspension consists of a McPherson layout in front and semi-independent arrangement at the rear, together with stiffer dampers and springs. The new Polo GTI has a 15 mm lower ride height compared with the standard Polo range and, in combination with 215/40 R17 profile tyres, allows the baby GTI to tackle corners with fervid pace.

The sportiest Polo stands out from the range with the two classic red trim strips on its radiator grille and the honeycomb pattern of the inserts in the front air inlets. Also GTI-specific are the fender flares and the colour-coded rear spoiler. Other exterior details of the Polo GTI include the 17-inch alloy wheels in “Denver” styling that offer a clear view of the red painted brake callipers, as well as a customised rear apron with a diffuser look in its lower section. Integrated on the left side are the chrome dual tailpipes of the exhaust system.

Inside the Polo delivers a genuine GTI ambiance. The sport seats are standard equipment and boast Alcantara/Vienna leather combination trim. The roof liner, roof pillar trim, grab handles and sun visors are all styled in a sporty black; a glossy black surface decorates the panels of the centre console. The black trimmings are contrast against brushed chrome accents for the air vent surrounds, door handles, frames for the gearshift lever and parking brake, as well as the DSG gearshift gate and the three spokes of the leather sport steering wheel.

The new Polo GTI comes well equipped as standard, with notable features being: driver and front passenger airbags; head-thorax side airbags; multi-function steering wheel; heated seats; steering-mounted gearshift paddles; cruise control; tyre-pressure monitoring and a front centre armrest. Optional extras include side-curtain airbags, park distance control (rear) and a panoramic sunroof. While the Polo GTI offers no choice of transmission – 7-speed DSG only – Volkswagen has provided an exterior colour palette that includes Candy White, Flash Red, Black, Reflex Silver, Shadow Blue and Deep Black.

The Polo GTI’s sophisticated engine and gearbox combination is an excellent one, while the vocal engine and exhaust note instill genuine GTI character. The interior has a premium feel, not unlike that of its bigger Golf GTI stablemate and, together with the exterior styling, the Polo GTI has just enough sporting attitude to fall short of any bravado. The newest GTI’s performance and standard equipment levels even represent fair value, but the omission of a maintenance and service plan as standard does cast a shadow over the final price.

Pricing includes a 3-year/120 000km warranty and 12-year Anti Corrosion warranty. A 5-year/60 000km maintenance plan and service plan are optional.