Volkswagen Virtus facelift exterior design revealed, likely to get 8-speed automatic
Volkswagen has revealed the updated Virtus, showcasing a refreshed exterior design inspired by triangular geometry. The facelift brings styling revisions to the mid-size sedan, which was first introduced in India in June 2022, while retaining its focus on driving dynamics, German engineering and safety.advertisement❮❯ Read Full StoryVolkswagen Virtus facelift: Exterior design The updated Virtus gets a new design direction that emphasises sharper detailing and a more contemporary appearance. At the front, the changes include redesigned headlights, a revised grille and a reworked bumper. The fog lamp housings have also been redesigned and now feature smaller, cube-shaped lighting elements.
The changes extend to the rear, where the sedan gets revised LED lighting elements for the tail-lamps. While their overall housing appears to have been carried over from the outgoing model, the updated lighting signatures lend the rear a fresh appearance.
The facelift also introduces new black-finished alloy wheels, particularly on the GT variant, while other versions are expected to get dual-tone alloy designs. The wheel size is likely to remain unchanged at 16 inches. Another important addition is a 360-degree camera system, with new camera units visible on the outside rearview mirrors.
Volkswagen has not yet showcased the cabin of the updated Virtus. However, the overall dashboard layout is expected to remain similar to the outgoing model, with some feature additions. These could include a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster and an updated infotainment system with a revised user interface and integrated AI functions.
The existing equipment list, including ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats, a single-pane sunroof and wireless phone charging, is expected to be retained. The updated model could also benefit from improvements to the climate control system for more effective cooling.
Mechanically, the Virtus facelift is expected to continue with the existing turbo-petrol engine options. These comprise a 1.0-litre TSI engine producing 115bhp and a 1.5-litre TSI unit delivering 150bhp.
The biggest mechanical change could be the introduction of a new eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission with the 1.0-litre engine, replacing the existing six-speed automatic gearbox. Volkswagen has already introduced this transmission on the updated Taigun, while the six-speed manual gearbox is expected to continue as before. The more powerful 1.5-litre engine is likely to retain its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The updated Virtus will build on the reputation of the existing model, which has established itself in India's premium mid-size sedan segment through its design, performance and driving experience. Volkswagen is expected to introduce a price revision with the facelift. The outgoing model is currently priced between Rs 10.71 lakh and Rs 19.20 lakh (ex-showroom).
The facelifted Virtus will continue to compete with the Skoda Slavia, Hyundai Verna and Honda City in the Indian market.
Working as a Senior Sub-Editor at India Today, I cover everything that runs on wheels. When not working, I can be found plucking the strings of a bass guitar and writing songs.
