Eyeing the VW Polo GTI but want to make it a little more special? Here are 5 of the best optional extras available for the Kariega-built hot hatch in South Africa…
Based on 2024 sales figures, the locally built VW Polo GTI is South Africa’s most popular hot hatch. So, considering there are so many examples on Mzansi’s roads, how can you make yours feel a little more special?
Well, we’ve identified 5 of the best optional extras for the facelifted Mk6 model.
As a reminder, the 147 kW Polo GTI is produced at VW’s Kariega plant – the exclusive manufacturer of this nameplate for global markets, in fact – right here in South Africa. While it ships with a relatively generous list of standard equipment, there are a few choice options we’d consider specifying. So, here they are…
Top 5 Equipment Options for the VW Polo GTI
1. Tilt-and-Slide Panoramic Sunroof
An extremely popular option among Volkswagen new-car buyers in South Africa, the sunroof is 1 of only 2 extras (not counting paint colours) that have a direct impact on the look the Polo GTI from the outside. VW offers a tilt-and-slide panoramic sunroof for its B-segment hot hatch, with this electrically operated item covering approximately half the length of the vehicle’s roof.
2. 18-inch Alloy Wheels for VW Polo GTI
As standard, the Polo GTI rides on 17-inch “Milton Keynes” alloy wheels wrapped in 215/45 R17 tyres. However, you also have the option of upgrading to 18-inch “Faro” items shod in 215/40 R18 rubber. Like the standard wheels, these rims are diamond-turned and feature an eye-catching black-and-silver finish, though in a completely different design.
3. Upgrade your VW Polo GTI with the Leather Package
If you ask us, the Polo GTI’s standard black cloth upholstery doesn’t exactly scream “flagship hot hatch”. To remedy such concerns, the German automaker will gladly sell you the “Varenna” leather package. Tick this box and you score sports seats up front, with leather all around. The front pews retain the standard heating function, and furthermore, each gains red contrast stitching and a “GTI” logo to further enhance the sporty look.
4. Infotainment Upgrade: Discover Media
If you order your VW Polo GTI in standard form the infotainment will be taken care of by the basic 8.0-inch “Composition Media” system. Upgrading to the “Discover Media” version (also using an 8.0-inch display), however, will add items such as built-in navigation, wireless App Connect, voice control and wireless smartphone charging. Moreover, this package includes VW’s highly configurable digital instrument cluster. We think it’s worth ticking this option box!
5. Safety Package for the VW Polo GTI
While the VW Polo GTI comes standard with all the basic safety features you’d expect (including a full complement of 6 airbags), the optional safety package adds some extra “big-car” kit. Select this option and your hot hatch will gain adaptive cruise control (complete with “stop and go” function) as well as a lane-keeping system and traffic-jam assist. Forward-collision warning and autonomous emergency braking are also included, along with proactive pedestrian monitoring.
Find a Volkswagen Polo GTI on Cars.co.za!
See specification and pricing details for the new VW Polo GTI
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