Volkswagen Virtus 1.5 TSI manual launched at Rs 16.89 lakh

Volkswagen has finally launched a six-speed manual gearbox option for the 1.5 TSI variants of the Virtus sedan. The new Virtus 1.5 TSI manual has been priced at Rs 16.89 lakh, ex-showroom. The carmaker has also launched new GT Plus variants of Taigun SUV with both manual and DSG automatic gearboxes, prices of which start from Rs 17.79 lakh, ex-showroom.

In order to keep the line-up fresh amid newer competition in their respective segments, Volkswagen has also introduced special exterior paint shade options for the Virtus and Taigun range.

1. Virtus GT Plus now gets two gearbox options
2. Taigun GT Plus line-up introduced
3. New GT Edge Limited Collection brings special paint options

Here's a look at the price list of the newly introduced Virtus and Taigun variants:

Virtus GT Plus MT variant introduced

The Virtus 1.5 GT, which was earlier available only with a 7-speed DCT gearbox in a single fully-loaded trim, now comes with a six-speed manual gearbox option. Thanks to this update, the Virtus now has the same powertrain line-up as its sister car, the Skoda Slavia, and importantly makes the 1.5 TSI engine more accessible to a wider audience. 

The Virtus now gets two gearbox options for both its engines, with the six-speed manual now becoming standard for the 115hp, 1.0 TSI and the 150hp, 1.5 TSI engines. The 1.0 TSI automatic gets a torque convertor automatic gearbox. 

Taigun GT Plus MT, Taigun GT DSG automatic introduced

Along with the Virtus GT MT, the Taigun 1.5 TSI also gets the manual gearbox option with the top-spec GT Plus trim which was so far only available with the DSG automatic. Additionally, the lower GT trim for the 1.5 TSI engine now gets the DSG automatic that was only available with the manual gearbox. This increases the variants available with the more powerful engine for a wider appeal. 

New paint shades introduced on both models

Volkswagen has also introduced the GT Edge Limited Collection, under which the Taigun GT Plus DSG and GT Plus MT can be had in two new paint shades – Deep Black Pearl or Carbon Steel Grey matte finish. The Virtus GT Plus DSG and GT Plus MT also get the Deep Black Pearl paint shade. These can be booked online only and will be manufactured on a made-to-order basis, according to the brand. Deliveries will commence next month.

Here's a look at how the newly introduced colour options have been priced on the Virtus and Taigun: