We get to grips with Volkswagen's upcoming Polo ahead of its world debut in Geneva.
Small car dimensions with big car refinement! The new VW Polo is here and we have the first official pictures of what promises to be the best-built and most-efficient supermini on sale - thanks to a completely redesigned body and a pair of all-new engines. But can the fifth-generation Polo keep pace with the reigning class-leader – Ford’s funky new Fiesta?
Unsurprisingly, the newcomer has grown in size compared to its predecessor. Measuring in at 36 millimetres longer, 32 millimetres wider and 13 millimetres lower, giving it a more aggressive stance on the tarmac. But the real shock is that while its footprint has grown, its waistline hasn’t. It actually weighs 7.5 per cent, or 76kg less than the vehicle it replaces.
And don’t think that tipping the scales at less than a tonne has compromised the car’s strength. The structure has been stiffened significantly over the outgoing model, boosting refinement on the move and keeping the handling sharp. In addition, a number of advanced safety systems and strategic reinforcements allow it to meet the criteria for the more stringent five-star EuroNCAP test.
Efficiency is the name of the game nowadays, and VW is trying to stay one step ahead of the competition with a duo of new small-capacity forced-induction engines. By downsizing the cylinders but adding a turbocharger it’s possible to maintain power and torque figures while significantly improving fuel economy. And that’s exactly what the first 1.2-litre TSI engine the firm has ever produced is hoping to achieve.
Developing 104bhp, the turbocharged petrol unit produces similar amounts of power to a naturally-aspirated 1.6-litre engine, but reduces emissions and lifts the mpg. The familiar non-turbocharged 1.2-litre engine will also be offered, while for diesel fans, a brand-new 1.6-litre TDI common rail engine joins the line-up, available with either 74bhp or 89bhp.
Ford’s stylish new Fiesta has broken new ground by making an affordable family car genuinely desirable - and VW is looking to strike a similar chord with its customers. The new Polo draws heavily from the design language first set out by the Scirocco and more recently displayed on the MkVI Golf.
A narrow horizontal grille framed by a sleek set of headlights mimics the larger models, while at the back distinctive new lights and a wider track give the car a solid look from any angle. The simple uncluttered lines are modern minimalism compared with the Fiesta’s carnival of curves and creases.
The benefit of the bodyshell’s extra inches is improved head, shoulder and legroom in the cabin. There’s more loading space too – 280-litres with the back seats in place or 952-litres with them folded down.
Quality of materials and finish is vastly improved on the inside, while sporty touches like white backlit dials make it a fun place to spend time. The dash is constructed using high-quality soft-touch plastics, while splashes of aluminium trim are applied tastefully around the interior.
Equipment levels are generous for a car in this class. Among the numerous options a refrigerated glovebox, an MP3 input and for the first time on a Polo a touchscreen sat-nav can be ordered along with a multi-function steering wheel.
It might be one of the smallest cars VW makes, but there’s no underestimating how important it will be for the firm. This is a little car with a lot of weight on its shoulders.
source: autoexpress
