So much in common. What’s the difference?

Volkswagen finally launched the Virtus in the Indian market. It is the second product under Volkswagen’s INDIA 2.0 strategy. Before Virtus, Skoda launched its Slavia which shares a lot of components and underpinnings with the Virtus. We do know what both the sedans share so today, we list the differences between sedans.

Engine & gearbox

Both the sedans come with the same engine and gearboxes but there is one difference. So, there are two turbocharged petrol engines on offer. A 1.0-litre, three-cylinder engine and a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine. The 1.0 TSI produces 115 PS and 178 Nm whereas the 1.5 TSI produces 150 PS and 250 Nm.

Also read: Skoda celebrates sedans with new TVC for Slavia

The 1.0 TSI is offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. On Slavia, the 1.5 TSI is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed DSG gearbox whereas the Volkswagen offers the Virtus 1.5 TSI only with a 7-speed DSG. So, if you consider yourself a hardcore enthusiast and want a powerful engine with a manual gearbox then you would have to buy the Slavia.

Dimensions

The Slavia and the Virtus are based on the same MQB-A0-IN platform. This means both have a wheelbase of 2,651 mm. The boot space is also the same at 521 litres. However, that is where the similarities end. The Virtus is longer, wider and taller than the Slavia. It measures 4,561 mm in length, 1,752 mm in width and 1,507 mm in height. When compared, the Slavia is 4,541 mm tall, 1,725 mm wide and is 1,487 mm tall.

Exterior design

Design is a personal preference. The Slavia looks elegant and sleek. It has a class and looks like a baby Octavia. On the other hand, Virtus has sharp edges and a simpler but sleeker yet sharper design.

If you opt for the GT version then you also get blacked-out elements and a rear spoiler which gives a sporty look.

Interior design

The interior of the Slavia feels more premium and airy because of the black and beige treatment. It gets a two-spoke steering wheel with piano black inserts. The steering wheel is directly lifted from the Skoda Octavia.

The Virtus also has a black and beige interior on the Dynamic Line but it has a more straightforward and German look to it. Moreover, if you get the GT Trim then you get red inserts on the dashboard, and red accents throughout the interior So, yes, the Virtus does feel a lot sporty, especially in the GT Trim.

Price

When it comes to the pricing, it is the Slavia that is more affordable as it starts at Rs. 10.99 lakhs ex-showroom whereas the Volkswagen Virtus starts at Rs. 11.22 lakhs ex-showroom. However, the story is a bit different when we compare the top-end trims of both sedans. The Slavia’s top-end 1.5 DSG is priced at Rs. 18.31 lakhs ex-showroom and the Volkswagen Virtus with 1.5 DSG costs Rs. 17.91 lakhs ex-showroom.

Also read: Forgotten Hyundai cars & SUVs: From Terracan to Sonata Gold