Volkswagen Virtus Spied Testing Ahead Of Expected India Launch: Pics & Details

Spy images from Rushlane reveal a partially camouflaged test mule along with a left-hand drive warning sticker placed on the rear bumper. The test mule could have been imported to the country from the international market.

The Volkswagen Virtus uses the brand's famous MQB platform. As a result, the Indian market will not be getting the same sedan model. The platform will undergo heavy localization to suit the Indian market.

The MQB platform will be localized as the MQB A0 IN under the Skoda-Volkswagen India 2.0 project. As a result, the Volkswagen Virtus is expected to be used as a base model to spawn an all-new sedan model exclusively for the Indian market.

Adding to the speculation, Zac Hollins, Director for Sales, Service & Marketing at Skoda Auto India, has confirmed that the company plans to launch a new sedan. The upcoming sedan from Skoda will also be using MQB A0 IN platform and will be powered by a TSI turbo-petrol engine — here are all details.

As a result, the Volkswagen Virtus could be brought to the Indian shores, which will help both brands to carry out research. It will help with the development of new sedan models launch in the Indian market next year. The upcoming sedan could also replace the Vento model sold in the country.

Although it is still unclear which TSI engine will be powering the new sedan model, we could expect VW to offer both the 1.0-litre unit of the 1.5-litre unit. Both engines are already powering several models sold in the country.

The 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine will produce a maximum power of 108bhp at 5500rpm, and a peak torque of 175Nm at 1750rpm. On the other hand, the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine produces a maximum of 148bhp at 5000rpm, and a peak torque of 240Nm at 1500rpm.

The new sedan is expected to borrow its design inspiration from the Volkswagen Virtus along with the features list as well. This includes LED lighting, strong shoulder line, front fascia and alloy wheels; among others.

On the inside, the new sedan will come equipped with a host of features. This includes a large touchscreen infotainment system, a fully-digital instrument console, wireless phone charger, climate control, multiple airbags, and other active and passive safety systems. It could feature an electronic sunroof as well.

Thoughts About The Volkswagen Virtus Spied Testing In India

The international-spec Volkswagen Virtus is highly unlikely to be launched in India. Instead, the company will be using it to develop an all-new sedan that will be made exclusively for the Indian market. The new sedan will borrow most of its design and features from the Virtus. However, the powertrain is expected to be borrowed from other models that are currently on sale in the market.