Is the top-spec VW Virtus worth the extra Rs 1.8L over the mid-variant?

I don’t know of anyone who regretted buying the top-of-the-line variant.

BHPian shadowhokage recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

So the big dilemma that I am currently facing is choosing between Virtus Highline AT and Topline AT models. The price difference between the two models is close to Rs 1.8 lakhs the mind says go for the Highline variant and save that money which can be used for accessories and future service costs whereas the heart says go for the Topline which is a fully loaded variant.

So the difference between the two variants is:

1. Headlights: Highline has LED lights whereas the Topline gets projector LED which looks sleeker
2. Alloys: Highline gets 16in silver alloys whereas Topline gets 16in machine alloys
3. Airbags: This is one of the most important points after spending 17+ lakhs Highline still gets only 2 airbags whereas Topline has 6 airbags
4. Instrument Cluster: Topline gets a fully digital cluster whereas Highline has an analogue with a small non-coloured MID (I do prefer the analogue one but considering future proofs of the car a digital one seems better)
5. Ventilated Seats: Topline gets two ventilated seats but from the user reviews I have read they aren’t as effective and useful
6. Sunroof: It doesn’t really matter to me rather I would prefer a car without a sunroof unless it’s a panoramic sunroof.

Need your opinions and help in deciding which variant should I go for

Here’s what GTO had to say on the matter:

• Definitely go for the top variant.

I frequently recommend going for the best engine available. Similarly, I recommend the top variant only (as long as the value is there, as it is in most cars today). I don’t know of anyone who regretted buying the top-of-the-line variant. But I know of many people who got the lower variants, then regretted it:

Let me put one thing straight = You will NEVER regret going for the most powerful engine on offer. It will reward you with a million smiles & innumerable memories…priceless in my opinion! YOLO and all that. After 5 – 10 years of owning the car, that extra 1 – 4 lakhs you spent on the better engine won’t matter. But you will always give yourself a pat on the back for buying the superior, faster motor. If you are reading this on Team-BHP, odds are, you love driving and this point is all the more relevant. I paid premium money for the 1st-gen City Vtec (used one at the same price as a new 2nd-gen City), 530d M-Sport (5-lakhs in the used market) & Thar Turbo-Petrol (in terms of its abysmal 6 km/l city FE). But I have derived a lot of pleasure & joy from these fast engines.

• Over 7 to 10 years of ownership, 1.8 lakhs is nothing. Especially when you are buying one of the best 20-lakh rupee sedans in India.
• In EMI terms, what is the extra monthly outflow for the top variant? A couple of grand.
• Side airbags are very, very important. In a frontal collision, you have all that crumple zone in front of you. If you get T-boned by a Tempo or an SUV, those side airbags can make the difference between you walking away…or not.
• There are many other goodies on the Topline that make the price difference acceptable. E.g. the ventilated seats.
• Enjoy your Virtus. Both engines are fun to drive. Although my first preference would be the 1.5L, that 1.0L is a pocket rocket too (has a wild nature!) and arguably comes with the more reliable, smoother gearbox.

Here’s what BHPian MotorDev had to say on the matter:

The Topline Virtus has six airbags. Think of them like superhero shields for you and your family. They’ll keep you safe if something unexpected happens on the road.

Ever heard of the car whisperers? Well, the Topline Virtus has a secret: it knows how to charm potential buyers. Fully loaded cars tend to hold their value like a champ. So, when you’re ready to upgrade or change gears, you’ll be the one with the upper hand.

You work hard, so why not roll in style? The Topline Virtus is like a happiness button. It makes driving feel exciting and makes you feel proud to be in it… Elevate your drive and let those extra features pamper you – you’ve earned it!

So, don’t hesitate to go for the Topline Virtus. It’s the one that’s extra safe, extra cool, and extra fun. You’ll be cruising around with a big grin on your face!

Here’s what BHPian BlueFyre had to say on the matter:

I own a topline model and I can tell you from my experience that it is all worth it. Whenever I approach my car the first thing I notice is the looks and believe me those classy LEDs are worth a look.

Airbags, I believe are not a feature but rather a necessity so better to have more of them.

I am not a fan of the digital instrument cluster though.

Ventilated seats contrary to air conditioning that the Virtus has or rather lacks are much more effective in quick cooling.

One thing I would like to advise is to please purchase the rear spoiler no matter what model you buy.

Here’s what BHPian niranjan.mulye had to say on the matter:

My personal opinion would be to always go for the top variant. The aftermarket accessories fit and finish just cannot match the factory finish no matter how professional the service provider is. Also, 1.8 lakhs is nothing for all the features you have mentioned above. Trust me you will regret later on for not going for the top variant. Money can be earned later features can be.

I was in a similar dilemma while buying my XUV 700. The top variant again had a luxury pack to add. Though I had already extended my budget for the top variant, I still took the luxury pack by paying 1.75 lakh more (2 lakhs on-road).

And I thank myself for making this decision.

Keyword: Is the top-spec VW Virtus worth the extra Rs 1.8L over the mid-variant?