Volkswagen updates Polo GTI in time for Paris

Volkswagen uses a number of performance badges on different models. Depending on the market, buyers can get a Jetta GLI, a Scirocco R, a diesel Golf GTD and of course the most iconic hot hatch of them all, the GTI. And those are just the front-drive models. But though it's the performance Golf that wears those letters exclusively in the US market, overseas it's not the only one: So does the smaller Polo GTI, and now Volkswagen is introducing a new version.

Expected to debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show, the new Polo GTI offers several changes compared to the existing model. For one, its 1.8-liter twin-charged four has been upgraded from 177 horsepower to 189, dropping the 0-62 time down from 6.9 seconds to 6.7. Previously available only with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, VW has apparently heard the cries of the purists and is now offering the Polo GTI with a six-speed manual as well.

The hot Polo's appearance has also been updated with new bumpers front and rear, honeycomb grille with trademark red stripe and a dual exhaust poking out the back. Inside there's a new flat-bottomed steering wheel, plaid upholstery, red stitching and gloss black trim. We're still waiting on the official press release, but in the meantime you can scope out the images floating around in the gallery above.