After several teases, the new 2021 Volkswagen Polo GTI (Mk6) facelift has finally made its global debut. The facelifted Polo GTI gets tweaked exterior bits, interior, and gains a few ADAS features.

Performance - Unchanged from before

Powertrain recipe remains unchanged – a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG). Power outputs are 207 PS/320 Nm and all of it is channelled to the front wheels.

Claimed 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 6.5 seconds while top speed is 240 km/h.

Also read: No sign of Malaysia debut, 2021 VW Polo facelift launched: Standard LED headlights and 1.0T

Exterior - Not-so-subtle tweaks

The most prominent change to the rear of the new Polo GTI is the redesigned LED tail lights with animated brake light and integrated dynamic indicators. The rear bumper appears to be similar compared to before except for the contrasting diffuser element.

The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), which is integrated in the side of the bumper and controlled via the main headlights, has been redesigned and is said to provide more concise lighting effect.

As per GTI tradition, splashes of red accents can be found throughout the exterior, with red brake calipers, red strip that runs across the front grille and headlamps, and red GTI logos.

Interior - Splashes of red everywhere

Inside, it gains the current angular Volkswagen steering wheel with red accents and capacitive buttons. The red accent extends to the dashboard trim and even the gear knob. 

The VW Digital Cockpit Pro comes as standard, which features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, along with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit. There is an optional 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Safety - Gains level 2 semi-automous driving capability

Advanced safety features have been taken up a notch with the option for IQ.Light Matrix LED headlights and IQ.Drive Travel Assist, which calls upon adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist functions to operate from speeds of 0 to 210 km/h.

Will it arrive in Malaysia?

Unfortunately, there is still no news that hints the arrival of the Volkswagen Polo Mk6 in Malaysia, let alone the GTI version. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is expected to launch the Volkswagen Golf Mk8 later this year. Here's to hoping that the Polo Mk6 could follow suit.

Also read:

The cars Malaysians are expecting in the second half of 2021 – Iriz Active, City Hatchback and more!

VW Golf Mk8 to launch in more RHD countries, Malaysia by 2H 2021