Handling
In the first look, you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the Polo GT TDI or the TSI, unless you spot the DSG lever, or someone cranks the engine. There’s a button on the centre console though, which is another giveaway. It toggles the Electronic Stability Program on the TSI and for people used to switching the AC button to its off position, terming it as the ‘Sports’ switch, this will excite. As my drive partner figured it out during the event. He found an isolated roundabout and kept going around it in circles, but to his amusement, something would curtail his excitement, every time he tried to get the car out of shape. Finally, some intervention and a button press later, he was grinning cheek to cheek. Similarly, around bends and on a wet, rainy day, ESP was vital in keeping things in check and is a pretty nifty tool that comes in handy when excitement takes over sanity.
Unlike the Polo GT TDI, the TSI isn’t as front heavy and thanks to a lighter engine, it feels more nimble around corners. The steering on the TSI too like its cousin is electrically assisted. It lacks as much feel and weight as we would’ve liked, but it is an accurate unit and given the nimble characteristics of the car, it matches its personality. The Polo GT TSI, like its other twins, shares the same brilliant ride and handling characteristics, except the fact that it feels lighter, but retains all the other traits.
Braking is one aspect though, where things could’ve been slightly better. After a spirited drive, they start fading and lack the bite or sharpness one would expect from a performance offering. We managed to get so much heat in them, after the drive, the front discs wanted a smoke break. However, under hard breaking, electronic aids like ABS and EBD ensure the car tracks straight and comes to a halt without any drama or shaking its rear like Beyonce or whoever you like.