Volkswagen has launched the facelifted Vento in India starting at Rs 7.44 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). The highlight of the facelift is the addition of the new 1.5-litre diesel motor, which also does duty in the Polo hatchback. In line with the Polo facelift, the facelifted Vento also gets a few cosmetic changes and equipment additions.

The updated Vento gets a tweaked face thanks to the restrained-yet-smart use of chrome and reprofiled headlamps. It gets brand new alloys; and at the rear too, the bumper and tail-lights have been slightly restyled.

On the inside, the updated Vento gets the same new three-spoke steering wheel as the Polo with some glossy-black finish and controls mounted on both sides. The dashboard gets a two-tone option and the centre console gets silver finishing in contrast to the black.

The updated Volkswagen Vento is now available in the following trim levels:

Vento 1.6 MPI petrol manual in three variants - Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Priced from Rs 7.44 lakh to Rs 8.87 lakh. 

Vento 1.2 TSI petrol (7-speed DSG) in Comfortline and Highline trims. Rs 9.35 to Rs 9.92 lakh

Vento 1.5 TDI manual in Trendline, Comfortline and Highline variants. Rs 8.57 lakh to Rs 9.90 lakh

Vento 1.5 TDI (7-speed DSG) in Comfortline and Highline variants.  Rs 10.49 to Rs 10.94 lakh

Introduction of the automatic gearbox on the Vento diesel is a good move on VW's part. The other automatic diesel on offer in the segment is the Hyundai Verna. The Skoda Rapid will also get an automatic diesel very soon. Given the timing of the launch, Volkswagen seems to also be making sure that it takes a fair swing to cash in on the festive season.