WITH its new Polo already recognised as the best hatchback of its type, Volkswagen Group Australia's new pocket rocket – the Polo 6 GTI – is in showrooms priced from $30,990.

The Polo 6 GTI puts out 147kW/320Nm through its 2.0-litre turbo four, the same power as the game-changing Mark V Golf GTI with 40Nm more torque.

Like the rest of the Polo range the GTI is four metres in length and almost 1.8 metres wide, but with bespoke front suspension settings and a stiffened back end. These can be accessed to the optimum via the sports settings without otherwise compromising the resolved ride and 'liveability' that distinguishes Volkswagen's compact performance cars.

"In this way – daily driveability with easily accessed sportiness – the Polo 6 GTI emulates its bigger brother Golf GTI," says Volkswagen Australia General Manager of Marketing and Product, Ben Wilks.

"As successful as previous Polo GTIs have been, the newcomer represents a new chapter in Volkswagen's compact performance car story. The combination of engineering, technology and luxury of these levels is unprecedented in a car from this class and clearly unmatched by competitors.

"The Polo 6 GTI is another of our hot hatchbacks to embody the Volkswagen formula of doing everything well."
The Polo 6 GTI comes standard with:

• 2.0 TSI engine with 147kW/320Nm
• 6-speed DSG transmission
• 17-inch Milton Keynes alloy wheels
• Clark tartan trim
• Sport Select suspension with Driving Profile Selection
• Extended Electronic Differential Lock (XDL)
• Front Assist with City Emergency Brake (City EB) and pedestrian monitoring
• Low tyre pressure indicator
• Rear View Camera (RVC)
• Multi-Function Display (MFD Plus)
• Leather multi-function sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles
• Keyless Access, keyless entry and starting system
• Power folding door mirrors
• LED interior lighting
• 8-inch Composition Media infotainment system
• App-Connect with 2 x USB ports
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• 6 speakers
• Cruise control
• Dual zone climate control air conditioning
• Front fog lights with static cornering lights
• Automatic headlight function and rain sensing wipers
• LED tail lights

In addition to metallic or pearl effect paint ($500) there will be three optional packages:

Driver Assistance ($1400): Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Monitor with rear traffic alert, Park Assist and proactive occupant protection system

Sound & Vision ($1900): Active Info Display, Discover Media navigation system, Media Control and beats 300w premium audio system

Luxury ($3900): Art Velour microfleece upholstery, heated front seats, LED headlights with LED daytime driving lights, 18" Brescia alloy wheels, panoramic electric glass sunroof, dark tinted rear side and rear window glass

The Polo 6 GTI offers a new entry point for Volkswagen's award-winning range of compact sports cars.