2018 Volkswagen Polo – Overseas Preview Drive | Expect Big Things From Volkswagen’s Little Hatch
When the previous generation Volkswagen Polo first arrived in 2009 it created a storm. Here was a car with features, technology, and refinement to challenge Volkswagen’s own Golf but in a smaller package and with a smaller price tag.
Now, with the new sixth generation Polo the size disparity has been addressed though not in the way you might expect - the new car is quite a bit larger than the model it’s set to replace and while it may not be Golf-sized yet it’s grown to a more practical size.
Of course technology also marches on, and thanks to the modular nature of Volkswagen’s electronics systems the new Polo borrows from its larger siblings to bring buyers a more comprehensive suite of convenience, safety, and infotainment technology.
TMR travelled to Germany for the Polo’s global launch to see just how much breathing room the Golf has been left with.
Vehicle Style: Light hatch
Price: $ TBA
Engine/trans: 70kW/175Nm 1.0-litre 3cyl turbo petrol, 85kW/200Nm 1.0-litre 3cyl turbo petrol
Fuel Economy Claimed: 4.4-4.5 l/100km (70 kW)
OVERVIEW
The finer details are still to be locked down for the 2018 Volkswagen Polo but before it arrives toward the end of the first quarter of next year but a few key details are known.
Aussie buyers will be able to pick from two engines, both 1.0-litre three cylinder turbo petrols, with outputs of either 70kW and 175Nm or a more gutsy 85kW and 200Nm version. Trim levels will be divided initially between the entry-level Trendline and mid-spec Comfortline with the Highline arriving later still and the Polo Beats and more powerful Polo GTI arriving towards the end of the year.