IT has an engine sized at only 1.4-litres, but the latest version of the Polo is the fastest baby car yet from Volkswagen.
Fitted with a supercharger as well as a turbocharger, the TSI motor zips the new GTI past the 62mph acceleration benchmark rate in only 6.9 seconds and goes on to a maximum speed of 142mph.
But the combination of 180PS power and bodywork weighing only 1,184kg means the car stretches a gallon of petrol to 47 miles and has modest tailpipe emissions of 139g/km
Due to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the car is claimed to be the most focussed Polo since Volkswagen first drove into the go-faster baby car market 24 years ago.
The motor drives through a compact seven-speed, twin-clutch DSG gearbox linked with an electronic cross-axle traction control system for better tyre grip and improved handling.
New springs and dampers reduce ride height by 15 mm and the car sits on 17-inch alloy wheels designed to show off its bright red brake callipers.
Exterior changes include new bumpers, a deep airdam, fresh headlamps and a subtle sill extension wrapping around the lower edge of the body. At the rear is a small diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts.
Inside are revised dials, a flat-bottomed steering wheel with gearshift paddles, aluminium pedals, heavily bolstered front seats finished in tartan trim and black headlining material.
Pricing and specification details will be announced when the car reaches British showrooms in summer.