Good news! There’s a new Volkswagen Polo GTI incoming! Just not to the U.S.

By Andrew Hard September 19, 2014

Let’s face it: car enthusiasts are selfish. There’s always something we’d change and something more we’d want. Even when we’re dealt a good hand, we’re usually not satisfied. But that doesn’t mean we’re wrong.

Case in point, the Volkswagen Polo. Yes, the U.S.-spec Golf is very similar (and very good), but we’re ultimately still left with a Polo-sized hole in our collective hearts. It’s one of the coolest entrants in the supermini segment, and we Americans feel like we deserve the chance to drive the spunky hatchback on our roads because, hey, we’re consumers too.

Realistically, because of Volkswagen’s commitment to the aforementioned Golf, we probably won’t see the little Polo on our shores anytime soon. That won’t stop us from hoping, however.

Volkswagen announced the refreshed 2015 Polo GTI this week, the hottest and most fun offering in the Polo line.

The looks are obviously similar to that of the 2014 Polo, but it looks less like an economical family car and more like the sporty hatch it wants to be inside.

The Polo GTI’s trip under the knife mainly focused on the front fascia, where a new bumper now wears honeycomb grill inserts and lively red inserts. Volkswagen has ditched the rotary phone-esque wheels as well for more classically styled alloys.

Related: 2015 Volkswagen E-Golf first drive

The biggest change, however, comes under the hood.

For the GTI, Volkswagen has swapped out the twincharged, 177-hp 1.4-liter four for a 1.8-liter TSI unit. The new engine creates 189 horsepower and 234 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to push the hatchback to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.

Thankfully, the Polo is still offered with a standard six-speed manual, but there’s a double-clutch DSG option for those who like their left foot staying put.

As the American market continues to mope, the Polo GTI will make its official debut at the Paris Motor Show, which runs October 4^th through the 19^th.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Photo Galleries

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.