Images of next-gen Volkswagen Polo-based sedan leaked

The first set of images of the all-new Volkswagen Virtus, the new Polo-based sedan, has surfaced on the internet. The new sedan will be based on the latest Volkswagen MQB A0 underpinnings. 

This new platform has been specially designed for multiple body styles which will include hatchbacks, cross-hatches, SUVs and sedans. A computer-generated rendering of the Virtus sedan was officially shown at an international motor show a few months ago.

The Polo-based sedan will replace multiple similarly sized sedan offerings in Volkswagen's global line-up which include the Voyage (based on an old platform) that's sold in South America, and the Polo (Vento for India) which is based on the PQ25 architecture that also underpins the outgoing Polo hatchback (current Polo for India). Replacing both these models with a single product based on the latest platform will help Volkswagen achieve greater economies of scale.

As seen from the leaked images, the new Volkswagen Polo-based sedan shares its front styling with the new Polo, making it nearly identical to its hatchback cousin until the B-pillar. From there on, it gets a slightly longer rear door, thanks to a 5mm increase in wheelbase. The new Polo sedan's rear styling is a mix of various design cues seen on recent Volkswagen Group models. Its rear bumper, boot lid and slim wraparound tail-lamps mimic the ones on the current-gen A4 sedan. There are chrome bits on the front and rear bumpers to give the car a premium look.

On the inside, the new Volkswagen Virtus sedan shares the dashboard and other bits with the all-new Polo, including its dual LED screen cockpit. This means it will be the first model in its segment globally to feature a 10.2- inch TFT screen along with a second 8.0-inch infotainment display. Under the hood, it will be safe to expect a 1.6-litre petrol and a 1.0-litre TSI motor, both that'll be shared with the new Polo.

The new Volkswagen Polo-based sedan will take on the likes of the new Hyundai Verna, the Honda City and the Suzuki Ciaz in international markets.

As of now, there is no news on the India launch of the new Volkswagen sedan.