Re: Volkswagen Polo 1.2L GT TSI : Official Review Guys, I have booked a Polo GT TSI and expect the delivery in 10 days time. I am moving on from a Ford Fiesta 2007 TDCi which I have thoroughly enjoyed over the last 8 years (1.1 lac km) and though the choice may indicate a deviation from the previous purchase (hatchback, petrol and automatic transmission, as against sedan, diesel and manual) it's well thought of. Usually it is just 2 occupants including me, and sometimes 3, and rarely if ever above 4. I don't go on long journeys, mostly city commuting and some nearby weekend trips. I like to drive myself and though in the past I had driver, I prefer driving. I enjoy a capable vehicle with sorted dynamics and good build.
Frankly I had not limited my search by fuel, transmission or vehicle shape/size. I had a negative list of manufacturers and a smaller preferred list of vehicles. I loved Linea (and Punto) for their ride, but could not adjust to the ergonomics (suited for taller Europeans) after repeated test drives. The New Fiesta was an obvious choice, but I find the manufacturer disinterested in selling a wonderful machine in Indian market, preferring to push a popular crossover hatch instead. Skoda Rapid was a very close option but I was put off by the sales experience. Vento was ruled out for its weaker (or softer) suspension. The GT twins always appealed to me, and the automatic provided additional incentive to go for the excellent TSI. So, combined together, the choice was a combination of emotion and reason, just like my previous purchase (when I had tried hatches and sedans in both petrol and diesel). I see the GT TSI as an engaging, competent and convenient car which topped my charts in the 12 lac budget I earmarked.
Fellow TSI owners and enthusiasts, I have a few queries that I need your suggestions on. Can you please help me with these? Thanks.
1. I would like better grip, lower noise/vibration and improved braking than the stock tyres. I wish to upgrade the tyres, but not upsize the stock rims. Would you suggest 195/60 tyres or 205/55 tyres? I have been happy with Michelin in my earlier vehicle and would prefer the same brand over the harder Yokohamas. I am not looking for performance, but handling and comfort. What has been your experience with the above sizes? Also, is there even a small chance that any of these can invalidate the warranty? In that case I shall go for Michelin in same size.
2. I am going for the two year extended warranty. Is there any way this can be extended beyond four years? Also, is there a maintenance/service AMC that may be worth?
3. I live in Thane and travel within Eastern suburbs mostly. There aren't any high Octane pumps (please tell me any within Thane-Mahape). How important is fuel quality for the engine? I have read that high octane improves performance and fuel efficiency of the TSI, I don't mind the performance and efficiency I saw in the TD car. But I would go hunting for high octane if it is required to maintain the engine healthy for longer. Is that so? And can one use some additives with normal petrol to get the same benefit? IF so, which one?
3. Of the D, S and the Triptronic, which is easier on the DSG? I guess D mode has max shifts. So theoretically driving in S mode would prolong life of the transmission, right? I know I am being pedantic here, but just surmising. How many of you actually prefer the Triptronic mode over the auto up shifts?
4. I am very fond of the excellent speakers in my old Fiesta. Since the TSI would be my new primary ride. I am wondering if I can swap the speakers with those in it. Would you confirm if it is the HU or the speakers that are the limiting factor in the TSI's stock audio sound quality? Also, would such a swap (if worthwhile and possible) impact the warranty (in which case I don't want to do it).
5. Any good suggestions on high quality mats for the car? I loved the premium mats in the Fiesta and they lasted all this while.
6. Is there a user manua, pdf on the net or with any of you? I'd like to acquaint myself by the time I get the delivery of the car.
7. Any other suggestions you'd want me to consider or keep in mind?
Thank you and enjoy your drives. |