Volkswagen slashes entry-level prices by ₹70,000 to challenge compact SUVs, while simultaneously hiking GT variant prices and discontinuing the 1.5L Manual transmission.
For years, the mid-size sedan segment has been a battleground of features versus driving dynamics. But with this latest strategic move, Volkswagen India is attempting to monopolise the value conversation—albeit with a catch. By dragging the starting price down to levels usually occupied by sub-4-meter cars, the German automaker is making a clear play for volume. However, as the entry-level becomes a steal, the ‘GT’ badge is becoming more exclusive, leaving purists with a difficult choice.
Here is the definitive breakdown of the Volkswagen Virtus price revision, what it means for buyers, and why VW is making these moves now.
1. The Numbers: Old vs. New Prices
A transparent look at exactly how much you save (or pay extra).
Volkswagen hasn’t just tweaked prices; they have polarised them. The entry-level is significantly cheaper, while the “desirable” upper trims are pricier.
| Variant | Engine / Trans. | Old Price (Approx.) | New Price | Change |
| Comfortline | 1.0 TSI MT | ₹11.20 – ₹11.56 Lakh | ₹10.50 Lakh | 📉 ₹70,000 (Cut) |
| Topline | 1.0 TSI AT | ~₹16.30 Lakh | ₹16.27 Lakh | 📉 ₹3,000 (Marginal Cut) |
| Highline | 1.0 TSI MT/AT | ₹13.40 Lakh+ | Increased | 📈 +₹35k to ₹51k |
| GT Plus | 1.5 TSI DSG | ₹18.50 Lakh+ | Increased | 📈 +₹21k to ₹30k |
| GT Plus | 1.5 TSI Manual | ~₹17.00 Lakh | DISCONTINUED | 💀 N/A |
Expert Insight: The price gap between the base model (Comfortline) and the next variant (Highline) has widened significantly. This is a classic “ladder” strategy—lure you in with the ₹10.50L price, then tempt you to upgrade because the gap feels justifiable for the added features.
2. Reality Check: Is the Base Model (₹10.50 Lakh) Worth Buying?
Experience-based analysis of the ‘Comfortline’ trim.
Usually, “base models” feel like punishment—black door handles, no radio, and steel wheels. However, the Virtus Comfortline is surprisingly well-equipped.
What you GET (The Essentials):
- ✅ Safety First: 6 Airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and Multi-Collision Brakes are standard. You don’t compromise on safety to save money.
- ✅ Looks: LED Headlamps (no cheap halogens) and LED DRLs ensure it still looks premium from the front.
- ✅ Tech: A basic 7-inch touchscreen with 8 speakers. It’s not the fancy 10-inch unit, but it supports Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (Wired).
What you LOSE (The Compromises):
- ❌ Alloy Wheels: You get 16-inch steel wheels with covers.
- ❌ Cruise Control: A miss for highway drivers.
- ❌ Rear Camera: You only get sensors; a camera must be added after-market.
Verdict: For ₹10.50 Lakh, this is arguably the most “complete” base model sedan in India. If you are a self-driver who values chassis stability over sunroofs, this is the pick.
3. The Enthusiast’s Lament: Why Kill the 1.5 Manual?
The discontinuation of the 1.5L TSI Manual is a blow to the car community. This variant was the “Unicorn”—150 Horsepower, 250 Nm Torque, and a 6-speed manual stick shift.
Why did VW do it?
- Low Take Rate: Enthusiasts make noise online, but they don’t buy in large numbers. Most buyers paying ₹17L+ prefer the convenience of the DSG Automatic.
- CAFE Norms: Manual transmissions on high-performance engines can sometimes struggle to meet strict efficiency/emissions targets compared to computer-controlled DSGs which shift optimally every time.
Pro Tip: If you desperately want this car, check dealership stockyards. Dealers might be sitting on unsold 2024/2025 inventory of the GT Manual. You could likely negotiate a massive discount on these “dead stock” units.
4. Under the Hood: The Spec Sheet Battle
Technical comparison for the performance-minded buyer.
With the price revision, the Virtus now competes across two very different segments. Here is how the engines stack up against the competition at this new price point.
| Feature | 1.0L TSI (The Budget King) | 1.5L TSI EVO (The Powerhouse) |
| Power | 115 PS @ 5000 rpm | 150 PS @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 1750 rpm | 250 Nm @ 1600 rpm |
| 0-100 km/h | ~10.5 Seconds | ~8.8 Seconds |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AT | 7-Speed DSG (Dual Clutch) Only |
| Best For | City Commutes & Highway Cruising | Track Days & Spirited Driving |
5. Estimated On-Road Prices (Major Cities)
Note: These are estimates including RTO, Insurance, and FastTag. Prices vary by dealer.
The ₹10.50 Lakh tag is the “Ex-Showroom” price. Here is what you will actually pay to drive the base Comfortline model home in India’s top metros.
| City | Ex-Showroom | Est. RTO + Taxes | Insurance | Est. On-Road Price |
| Delhi | ₹10.50 Lakh | ~₹85,000 | ~₹45,000 | ~₹12.00 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹10.50 Lakh | ~₹1.98 Lakh (High Tax) | ~₹45,000 | ~₹13.15 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹10.50 Lakh | ~₹1.35 Lakh | ~₹45,000 | ~₹12.55 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹10.50 Lakh | ~₹1.55 Lakh | ~₹45,000 | ~₹12.75 Lakh |
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy What?
- The Budget Seekers: Buy the Comfortline (1.0 MT) immediately. At ₹10.50 Lakh, you are getting a global-standard German sedan for the price of a sub-compact SUV.
- The Daily Commuters: The Topline (1.0 AT) price cut is small, but it signals that VW wants to keep the “fully loaded” city car competitive against the Verna.
- The Speed Freaks: If you want the 1.5 TSI, you are now forced to buy the DSG. It’s faster, yes, but it will cost you over ₹19 Lakh ex-showroom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the new starting price of the VW Virtus in 2026?
A: The Volkswagen Virtus now starts at ₹10.50 Lakh (ex-showroom) for the Comfortline 1.0 TSI Manual variant.
Q: Is the Volkswagen Virtus 1.5 Manual still available?
A: No, Volkswagen has officially discontinued the manual transmission option for the 1.5L TSI engine. It is now DSG (Automatic) only.
Q: Did the Virtus GT price increase?
A: Yes, the GT Plus DSG variants have seen a price hike of approximately ₹21,000 to ₹30,000.
Disclaimer: Prices mentioned are ex-showroom and subject to change by the manufacturer. Please check with your local dealership for the latest on-road pricing.
