The VW Polo GTI Edition 20 brings a fresh look and exclusive features to mark two decades in South Africa. Picture Credit: VW
By Aisha Zardad
South Africa – Volkswagen is celebrating 20 years of the Polo in South Africa with a special-edition GTI, the Edition 20. Slated to launch in the coming months, this hot hatch adds unique styling and upgraded features, making it the most premium Polo in the local range. With a familiar performance setup and exclusive design touches, the Edition 20 is aimed at enthusiasts looking for a standout city-friendly performance car.
What’s New / Updates:
The Edition 20 builds on the existing Polo GTI with several cosmetic and interior upgrades:
- Three exclusive paint options: Cristal Ice Blue Metallic, Kings Red Metallic, and Ascot Grey
- Contrasting black roof and mirror housings
- “20” decals on front and rear doors to highlight the special edition
- 18-inch Faro alloy wheels and rear diffuser (Kings Red finish on select colours)
- Leather seats with red vinyl trim, special “20 GTI” dashboard decals, and piano black centre console
- Privacy glass from the B-pillar rearwards
These updates ensure the Edition 20 stands out from the standard GTI models while retaining the GTI’s sporty character.
Engine & Performance:
The Edition 20 keeps the tried-and-tested GTI drivetrain:
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol
- Power: 147 kW and 320 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel drive
- 0-100 km/h: 6.7 seconds
- Top speed: 238 km/h
- Fuel consumption: 6.4 L/100 km (combined)
City driving remains agile, while the turbocharged engine ensures brisk acceleration and highway confidence, making it an ideal blend of performance and practicality for everyday use.
Features & Comfort:
The Edition 20 focuses on sporty comfort and style:
- Exterior: Unique paint colours, black roof, black mirror caps, “20” decals, 18-inch alloy wheels, rear diffuser
- Interior: Leather seats with red trim, special dashboard decals, piano black centre console
- Infotainment & convenience: Standard GTI features remain, plus enhanced interior styling touches
- Safety: Standard GTI safety features apply
Pricing & Ownership in South Africa:
The Edition 20 is priced at R605,700, making it the most expensive Polo variant. For reference, other Polo prices include:
| Model | Price (VAT Incl.) |
|---|---|
| Polo hatch 1.0TSI | R373,800 |
| Polo hatch 1.0TSI Life Manual | R420,800 |
| Polo hatch 1.0TSI Life Auto | R445,400 |
| Polo hatch 1.0TSI R-Line | R499,100 |
| Polo GTI | R585,800 |
| Polo GTI Edition 20 | R605,700 |
Ownership benefits include:
- 3-year / 120,000 km warranty
- 3-year / 45,000 km service plan
Verdict:
The Volkswagen Polo GTI Edition 20 combines familiar GTI performance with exclusive styling to celebrate 20 years in South Africa. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who want a sporty, eye-catching hatchback with premium touches, without straying from the practical and reliable DNA of the Polo range.
