Volkswagen is celebrating 25 years of its iconic Polo GTI with a special-edition model that combines performance, style, and exclusivity. The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is a tribute to the original Polo GTI that debuted in 1996 and set the standard for compact hot hatches.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 features many enhancements over the regular Polo GTI, such as a more powerful engine, a sportier suspension, a unique exterior design, and a limited production run of only 2500 units worldwide.
More Power, More Fun
The heart of the Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 207 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 7 hp and 15 lb-ft over the standard Polo GTI. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, both of which send power to the front wheels via an electronic limited-slip differential.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 6.4 seconds with the manual gearbox or 6.3 seconds with the automatic and reach a top speed of 151 mph. The engine also features a sound actuator that enhances the exhaust note for a more thrilling driving experience.
Sportier Suspension, Sharper Handling
To match its increased power, the Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 also gets a sportier suspension setup that lowers the ride height by 0.6 inches and improves the handling and stability. The suspension features adaptive dampers that can adjust to different driving modes and road conditions, as well as stiffer springs and anti-roll bars for reduced body roll and better cornering.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 also comes with larger brakes that provide more stopping power and fade resistance. The front brake discs measure 12.3 inches in diameter and are clamped by red-painted calipers with GTI logos, while the rear discs measure 10.7 inches.
Unique Exterior Design, Exclusive Details
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 stands out from the crowd with its unique exterior design that pays homage to the original Polo GTI. The special-edition model features a black roof, black mirror caps, black side skirts, and a black rear spoiler, as well as red accents on the grille, bumper, and tailgate. The car also sports exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels with a gloss-black finish and red center caps.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is available in three colors: Pure White, Deep Black Pearl Effect, and Flash Red. Each car comes with a numbered plaque on the dashboard that indicates its production number out of 2500.
Premium Interior, High-Tech Features
The interior of the Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is equally impressive, with premium materials and high-tech features that enhance the comfort and convenience of the driver and passengers. The car comes with sports seats upholstered in ArtVelours fabric with red stitching and GTI logos on the headrests and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and paddle shifters (for automatic models).
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 also features a digital instrument cluster that can display various information such as speed, rpm, navigation, and driver assistance systems. The car also comes with an infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, wireless charging, and a Beats sound system with six speakers and a subwoofer.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 also offers a range of driver assistance systems that enhance the safety and confidence of the driver. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, park assist, rearview camera, and emergency braking.
A Hot Hatch for the Ages
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is a hot hatch for the ages, combining performance, style, and exclusivity in a compact package. The special-edition model celebrates 25 years of the Polo GTI legacy and offers a thrilling driving experience for enthusiasts who appreciate its history and heritage.
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 will go on sale in Europe in early 2024 with a starting price of around $32,000. No word is yet on whether it will be available in other markets, such as North America or Asia.
If you want to get your hands on one of these rare gems, you better act fast because they will likely sell out quickly. The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 25 is not just a car, it's a collector's item.