The updated Volkswagen Polo GTI has gone on sale in the UK, adding the popular performance variant to the latest edition of the small hatchback. The revised version of the sixth-generation Polo GTI gets its power from a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that makes 204bhp and 320 Nm of torque that results in a 0-60mph time of 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 149mph.

A seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission is standard and power is sent to the front wheels. Updates include larger anti-roll bars up front and stiffer axle-location mounts at the rear to improve cornering. The GTI is also 15mm lower than a regular Polo. An XDS electronic locking differential is standard fit, which controls the brake pressure on the front wheel that’s on the inside of a corner, which reduces wheelspin and improves acceleration out of a corner.

There are two suspension settings to choose from, while drive modes adjust other settings to provide a more comfortable, more sporty or more eco-focused driving style. Other equipment includes Matrix LED headlights that are joined up with an illuminated radiator grille that debuted on other Volkswagen models such as the larger Golf hatchback. Traditional GTI touches are added, including red trim on the grille and red GTI badges, while red brake callipers are also fitted.

The cabin gets sport seats with that traditional check pattern, but can be switched for comfort seats upholstered in a microfibre material. An 8.0-inch infotainment display is in the centre of the dashboard, with a 10.25-inch digital dial display.