The Polo - a multi-talented car

The name has been part of the Volkswagen line-up for more than two decades, but the Polo has remained young. That may in part be due to its versatility. In addition to three- and five-door hatchback models there is the notchback Classic and the practical Variant estate car.

At the centre of the range, however, just as before, is the popular hatchback version with its characteristic tail end styling. With its spirited and pleasant looks, the Polo is highly popular with all types of customer. Its popularity is due to its modest proportions, with a length of 3,715 millimetres, its high level of refinement, its dynamic handling and the extensive range of safety equipment, which includes airbags for the driver and front seat passenger and ABS on all versions.

Limited-edition Polo GTI

The new Polo GTI takes the sports concept to new heights. This model continues a tradition which began at Volkswagen more than 20 years ago with the first Golf GTI. This spirited little performer, whose high engine output of 88 kW / 120 bhp and low kerb weight of just 961 kilograms are ideal for dynamic performance, recalls this tradition. When required, the Polo GTI can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and it has a maximum speed of 200 km/h.

The Polo GTI's 1.6-litre engine with its four valves per cylinder is also outstandingly talented when it comes to economy: on average it needs just 7.1 litres of unleaded super grade petrol for every 100 kilometres and also complies with the EU-III-D exhaust emission standard. The entry-level version of the familiar Polo model range has a 1.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a power output of 37 kW / 50 bhp. This compact unit also meets the EU-III-D exhaust emissions standard and consumes an average of just 5.9 litres of unleaded petrol every 100 kilometres.

Alternatively, the Polo can be supplied with a 1.4-litre engine developing 44 kW / 60 bhp or a 1.6-litre engine developing 55 kW / 75 bhp. The 1.4-litre sixteen-valve engine is the key to veritable sports performance, delivering as it does 74 kW / 100 bhp. The 16 V also has a distinctive appearance, with alloy wheels, and disc brakes at all four wheels as standard. The two diesel engines that are available for the Polo offer particularly low fuel consumption. On the one hand there is a conventional naturally aspirated diesel developing 47 kW / 64 bhp and, on the other, a direct-injection naturally aspirated unit. With a displacement of 1.7 litres, the Polo SDI delivers 44 kW / 60 bhp and has an average fuel consumption of just 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. Like the Lupo, it is regarded as a "five-litre car" in Germany and therefore qualifies for a tax concession.

Many and varied equipment options

In addition to the basic version, the Polo is also available with the "Sportline", "Comfortline" and "Highline" equipment packages. "COLOUR Concept" refers to a further version that features striking colour combinations. On this version, the colour of the leather interior matches the car's paintwork. The option of a leather interior on the Polo proves that you can be cosseted in luxury even in a small car. For summer trips, on the other hand, there is the Polo "Open Air" with its electrically operated folding top of synthetic material, enabling driver and passengers to enjoy the pleasures of the sun and fresh air in all Polos up to 74 kW and in both Polo diesels.

Note: All data and items of equipment quoted on this page refer to the model programme offered in Germany. These details may vary in other countries. Fuel consumption is quoted as MVEG values. Subject to modification and correction.