THE latest generation Volkswagen Polo GTI is now available to order with prices starting from £26,430 on-the-road.

Thanks to a raft of enhancements, Volkswagen’s supermini-sized GTI, more than ever before, exudes all of the qualities that have made those three iconic letters so successful over the course of nearly 50 years.

The GTI follows the launch of the revised sixth-generation Polo range earlier this year, and takes pride of place as its flagship. The new model features revised styling, even more equipment, plus improved safety – and even brings premium-car technology to the supermini segment.

At the heart of every GTI is its engine, and that is true of the new range-topping Polo. Its 2.0-litre (1,984cc) four-cylinder turbocharged TSI petrol power plant produces a peak power figure of 207 PS, and, allied to a super-responsive seven-speed dual clutch gearbox (DSG), the new Polo GTI is capable of sprinting from standstill to 62mph in 6.5 seconds, before attaining a top speed capability of 149mph.

Power, however, is nothing without control. To that end, the new Polo GTI combines a dynamic chassis with sophisticated systems to assist both stability and driver enjoyment.

The new Polo GTI is now fitted as standard with Volkswagen’s innovative IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, bringing big-car tech to the small-car sector. This advanced system is joined by an illuminated radiator grille crossbar as a highly distinctive complement to the daytime running lights.

Inside, as one would expect, the Polo GTI leaves no doubt as to its special status. Stylishly confident without being brash, this new flagship model remains faithful to the GTI philosophy. For example, the roof pillars and headliner are trimmed in Titanium Black, with red contrasting stitching applied throughout the interior.

The sports seats feature the legendary ‘Jacara’ check pattern, with sports comfort seats in ArtVelours material available as an option.

The extensive equipment list comprises additional curtain airbags at the front and rear – now including a centre airbag – background lighting in the door trims and dash panel; 2zone electronic air conditioning with an upgraded digital control unit; DSG paddles on the leather multi-function sports steering wheel; 17-inch ‘Parker’ alloy wheels (with 18-inch ‘Faro’ versions as an option); ‘Light and Sight’ pack (featuring, among other items, automatic headlight control; Coming/Leaving Home light function; rain-sensing wipers; and auto-dimming rear-view mirror).

Exterior paint colours offered on the Polo GTI comprise Pure White; Deep Black Pearl; Kings Red Metallic; Reef Blue Metallic; and Smokey Grey Metallic. Additionally, there is an eye-catching black-roof option available to combine with the white, red and blue paint options listed above.