For any discerning hot hatch driver, the Ford Fiesta ST has proved the better value for money option of late. Aiming to infringe on its turf is the new Polo GTI from Volkswagen. Along with a sportier looking GTI body kit, the new Polo GTI features a revamped engine that generates greater kilowatts than its predecessor. Gone is the 1.4 TSI engine of yesteryear, now replaced with a larger 1.8 litre TSI engine tuned to produce 141 kW of power, which 9 kW more than the previous iteration.

At launch, expected before the end of Q2 this year year, Volkswagen will make the new Polo GTI available with a seven-speed DSG (direct shift gearbox) transmission. A little further down the line, a six-speed manual option will also be coming. So what does this new engine deliver? Well 0-100 km/h is taken care of in just 6.7 seconds, and the new Polo GTI is said to top out at 236 km/h. To put that in perspective, the Fiesta ST is capable of reaching 100 km/h from a standstill in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 220 km/h.

Apart from trumping its American rival in the straight line speed stakes, the Polo GTI has received a customary facelift from Volkswagen, with newly styled bumpers and flared door sills, as well as some GTI badges all over the car so people knows exactly what its packing under the bonnet.

There are also a few firsts for the Polo GTI, as VW will now offer it with LED headlights (as an optional extra), along with daytime running lights. Added to this is a new rear spoiler, dark red taillight clusters and chrome dual-exhaust tailpipes.

A glimpse inside, will reveal further a bit of VW's design handiwork, with classic GTI red accents found throughout, and a leather sports steering wheel adapted from the Golf GTI. A clout touchscreen can also be seen up front, along with all the necessary USB and aux inputs you'll need.

Volkswagen has slapped an R326 400 recommended retail price on the Polo GTI, so those interested should check out their local dealership for more info.