New VW Polo In Depth

Press Release

Design

 

·         Accentuated Form Vocabulary with a Strong Character

·         Striking front design with new brand identity

·         Tail features unmistakable defining touches

 

The latest version of the Polo continues an impressive success story. For exactly 30 years, the Polo has being setting standards in its segment and the latest generation, which is based on the fourth generation of the best-seller, re-emphasises its claim on the leadership.

 

When you see the new Polo for the first time, you immediately notice its modern character. The completely redesigned front end with its prominent three-dimensional shape makes the Polo look more beefy and powerful than before. It looks more dynamic, grown-up and fresh with its accentuated form vocabulary � it simply fits in the modern era.

 

Following the new Passat, the new Polo will be the second Volkswagen to display the new brand face. This form vocabulary pushes dynamism and emotion into the foreground and has a wide range of interpretation possibilities.

 

The new Polo makes a clear statement with its characteristic face. Its face features the V-shape that was used impressively on the concept studies in a very personal way. From the A-pillars, a striking curve stretches over the bonnet to the radiator grille. It is therefore part of a strong three-dimensional front end shape that is also defined by a strict horizontal subdivision.

 

Characteristic round headlights remain the shaping element

 

The new Polo's face is essentially characterised by its headlights. They are defined as trapezoidal elements that are highlighted by a striking circular element - the main lights.

 

The designers have been very creative in playing around with the characteristic circular badge and have created interesting details. One example is the bottom edge of the headlights that extends into the front bumper. This curve contains the front indicators. The side indicators have been integrated in the door mirrors.

 

The headlights are an example of the freedom for design variations provided by the new Volkswagen face. It also provides space for interesting details that underline the quality of the design with the finest of details � for example, around the headlight bulbs that beam light onto the road through a filigree element with integrated VW symbol.

 

Thanks to this front end design, the Polo has retained the appealing character of the previous model generation. Its modern design also places it in a higher-quality class, however. In comparison with the predecessor, its redesigned front extends the new Polo by 19 millimetres to 3,916 millimetres. Its width (1,650 millimetres) and height (1,465 millimetres) correspond to the currently available model.

 

Dynamic accents in the tail design

 

The rear end lends the vehicle a further dynamic touch. Here, the rear window ends in a V-shape in the lower frame area, making the Polo appear more lively and sporty when viewed from the rear. The V-shape interpreted in the design of the new Polo face is thus repeated both discreetly and unobtrusively, but not without effect.

 

The redesigned rear lights also demonstrate uniqueness and a dynamic character, picking up on the front end's circular elements and clearly setting the tone at the rear of the new Polo. Together with the new contours of the rear window, the Polo also shows a dynamic character when viewed from the rear.

 

Different character of both body versions

 

The shape of the sideline on the new Polo is true to the style of the predecessor and shines with a both clear and impressive design. The use of space inside the car and the increased width of the body are in perfect harmony here. Accenting the two available body versions is also typical of the Polo. Whilst the two-door's ascending lateral curve gives the impression of dynamism and bears coupé-like features, the family-oriented four-door conveys stature and solidity in its clear design and third side window in the C-pillar.

Equipment

 

·         Perfectly coordinated to people’s needs

·         New equipment details for more convenience and safety

·         High-level functionality for everyday use

 

The latest generation of the Polo will be available in three equipment levels: “Trendline�, “Comfortline� and “Sportline�. These three equipment versions follow the high level of the last Polo generation with excellent convenience and safety features. In addition, the new Polo distinguishes itself with further equipment details that are available for the first time and offer customers new perspectives both in terms of safety and comfort. They include brake assist, ParkPilot, tyre pressure monitor and the coming home function for the headlights. The Polo will set the pace with these equipment features, and combines a high-quality, modern design with innovative equipment that meets the requirements of progressive customers. The optional tinted side and rear windows with special heat-insulating glass, which has a light transmission of just 35 percent, are also new.

Front and side airbags as standard, head airbags optional

 

The Polo has front and side airbags as well as belt tensioners for both front seats as standard that ensure a high level of occupant safety in collisions. A head airbag system is also available as an option. A curtain-like airbag inflates as a protective cushion along the side windows to provide additional protection for both front and rear occupants in side collisions. The front passenger airbag can be deactivated in the glove compartment using the ignition key. This is, for example, necessary if you want to fit a reboard child seat on the front passenger seat. Two ISOFIX anchors allow safe securing of child seats on the rear bench � an integrated child seat is also available.

 

The Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP), which is fitted as standard with engines above 74 kW / 100 hp, and is optionally available for the other engines, offers additional effective support for safe driving.

Safety thanks to brake assist and tyre pressure monitor

 

The latest generation of the Polo has further equipment features that make this, the most successful model in the segment, even safer. For example, the Polo is equipped with a dual-rate brake servo. Together with the standard ABS, this mechanical brake assist effectively supports the driver in dangerous situations by boosting the brake pedal force significantly from a specific point. The braking distance is reduced accordingly.

 

Another safety feature available for the first time in the Polo is the tyre pressure monitor. This option warns the driver via a lamp in the cockpit if air pressure is being lost in one of the tyres and there is a risk of damage to the tyre.

 

Arrive home safely with the coming home function

 

Two more new features also add to the convenience in the Polo and also indirectly enhance its safety equipment as they are not directly involved in accident protection. A coming home function for the headlights is available on the Polo for the first time (standard on the “Comfortline� model).

 

Everyone knows what it is like to pull into a dark driveway at night or to park in a poorly lit street. It is difficult to find your way when you get out of the car. The new Polo can help with the coming home function � an outstanding feature for this class. When you arrive at your destination, you can switch on the lights once you have turned off the engine. The surrounds and the path are illuminated for a while after you climb out. When you turn off the ignition and remove the key, you just have activate the flasher lights briefly and the driving lights will switch on automatically as soon as the driver’s door is opened. The lights will stay on for around 30 seconds until they switch off again automatically � you therefore have time to find your way in the light provided by the headlights. This function underlines the high safety standard of the new Polo even when you leave the car.

Parking is easy thanks to ParkPilot

 

The ParkPilot is an indispensable aid in everyday use that is available for the first time with the new Polo. This parking distance sensor system integrated in the rear bumper is a valuable help particularly in town traffic � after all, many customers use the Polo in the city due to its compact dimensions. The ParkPilot does not only make parking in tight spaces and manoeuvring in car parks easy, it prevents accidental parking prangs that could cause annoying damage.

Special equipment for individual comfort

 

In addition to these new equipment features, the new Polo can be adapted to your individual needs and preferences with a large range of special equipment.

 

The available special equipment includes a rain sensor along with an automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror, an integrated child seat, sports chassis with harder spring/damper configuration and the suspension lowered by approx. 15 millimetres, radio and navigation system as well as sporty alloy wheels in various sizes and different designs.

The Polo “Trendline� – an overview of the most important equipment features:

- 4 airbags

- Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

- Non-smoker package with power socket

- Cup holders (2 in rear)

- Roof aerial, electrically boosted

- Rev counter and service interval indicator

- Three-point seat belts (5, height-adjustable at front)

- Power windows at front

- Glove compartment on passenger side

- Heated rear window with timer switch

- Rear window wash/wipe with intermittent wipe

- Heating and fresh air system with pollen filter

- Interior lights with switch-off delay

- ISOFIX preparation for two child seats in the rear

- Rear head restraints

- Steering column height and reach adjustable

- Vanity mirrors in both sun visors

- Centre console with storage compartment

- Breakdown set

- Folding fear bench and backrest without split, with lock indicator

- Front windscreen wipers with four-setting intermittent wipe

- Black bump strips

- Adaptive electro/hydraulic power steering

- Bumpers painted in body colour

- Front seats with recline facility

- Heat insulating green tinted glass

- Warning buzzer when lights not turned off

- Electronic immobilizer

- Central locking

- 14-inch steel wheels with full-size wheel trims

The Polo “Comfortline� – considerable number of additional equipment features compared with “Trendline�

- Headlights with coming home function

- Body-coloured door mirrors and door handles

- Exterior mirrors electrically adjusted and heated

- Cup holder and map pocket in front

- Chrome package 1

- Dual-tone horn

- “Easy Entry� system (for two-door)

- Boot light

- Locking glove compartment

- Two reading lights in front

- “Climatic� air conditioning

- Folding rear bench and backrest split asymmetrically, with centre armrest

- Drawers under front seats

- Body-coloured bumpers and bump strips

- Height-adjustable front seats

- Central locking with remote control

The Polo “Sportline� – considerable number of additional equipment features compared with “Trendline�

- Exterior mirrors electrically adjusted and heated

- Body-coloured door mirrors, bump strips and door handles

- Chrome package 2 for interior

- Height-adjustable driver’s seat with drawer

- Boot light

- “Climatic� air conditioning

- Radiator grille with additional chrome strips

- Leather steering wheel (3 spoke)

- Leather gearstick knob and hand brake grip

- “Misano� 14-inch alloy wheels

- Multi-function display

- Folding split rear bench and backrest, with centre armrest

- Sports suspension

- Front sports seats

- Central locking with remote control

Overview of most important special equipment for the new Polo:

- “Cool and Sound� package (Climatic and Radio RCD 200, only for Polo Trendline)

- CD changer for six CDs (under front passenger seat)

- Luggage securing package (folding box that fits into boot floor, cargo net)

-  Cruise control

- Integrated child seat

- “Climatronic� air conditioning with fully automatic control

- Head airbag system for front and rear passengers

- Universal mobile phone preparation with hands-free system

- Leather interior

- “Light and Vision� equipment package with rain sensor and coming home function

- ParkPilot

- Radio system RCD 200 with four or eight loudspeakers

- Radio/navigation system with monochrome display

- Tyre pressure monitor

- Electrical sliding/tilting glass sunroof

- Heated front seats

- Winter package with heated front windscreen washer jets, headlight washer system and heated front seats

Interior

·         Functionality combined with space and quality

·         Top-class level for ergonomics and workmanship

·         High-quality materials with fresh design and cheerful colours

 

The new Polo has also been modernised inside. High-quality fabrics in an exclusive and fresh design add new touches. All materials used look and feel high quality � as you would expect of Volkswagen. The driver gains new perspectives in the latest generation of the Polo. In addition to the redesigned instrument graphics, new steering wheels are also available. The four-spoke steering wheel featured in the basic version has improved grip.

 

The leather steering wheel has a modern three-spoke design with a large, central impact plate. This design and the materials used make it look high quality and exclusive.

 

Car park ticket always within reach

 

The Polo demonstrates advances and practical use with another equipment detail that is available for the first time. On the right of the dash panel next to the instruments and therefore within easy reach for the driver, a special pocket has been integrated that can be used, for example, to hold car park or toll road tickets.

 

The high standard of the Polo is also reflected in the newly available “RCD 200� audio system that can be combined either with four or eight speakers. The radio system equipped with a CD player is in the large 2-DIN format and fits perfectly in the harmonious and high-quality looking Polo dash panel in terms of shape and design. Large control buttons with an unmistakable design make controlling the audio system child’s play. Just like all of the controls in the Polo, they have been thought out down to the last detail, are practical and driver-friendly.

 

Boot variable for luggage transport

 

The Polo is also well thought out and practical when it comes to transporting luggage. The Polo boot has a volume of 270 litres and can be expanded in next to no time. The folding rear bench, which is split 60/40 from the “Comfortline� equipment version, allows for a boot volume of up to 1,030 litres. This means you can also go on big shopping trips without any worries.

 

The optional luggage securing package is also well thought-out. This includes a folding box that fits into the boot floor and a cargo net that can be used as a bag.

Engines

 

·         Modern power plants for driving fun and environmental protection

·         New TDI engines for entry to diesel range

·         All engines meet the Euro 4 norm

 

The new Polo demonstrates its first-class qualities as an all-round talent in the diversity of its engines. Five petrol engines with outputs ranging from 40 kW / 55 hp to 74 kW / 100 hp and four state-of-the-art TDI engines with outputs from 51 kW / 70 hp to 96 kW / 130 hp are available � this selection meets a wide range of customer needs. Whether as a particularly economic basic engine, a dynamic alternative or a high-torque and economic diesel � the new Polo has the right engine for all needs. When it comes to diesel engines, which are also becoming increasingly popular in Germany, the Polo has a modern range made up exclusively of TDI power plants using modern unit injector technology.

 

The high level of Polo engines is also shown in the emissions figures as all petrol and diesel engines fulfil the Euro 4 emissions norm. A diesel particulate filter is being prepared for the new Polo.

 

The servicing intervals are another strength of the Polo engines. They are not strict, instead the driver is informed via the service interval display when servicing is necessary. Therefore the regular service is only due after up to two years or a maximum of 30,000 kilometres.

 

Polo 1.2 2V delivering 40 kW / 55 hp

 

The 1.2-litre delivering 40 kW / 55 hp is a particularly economic entry-level engine in the Polo range. The three-cylinder two-valve engine combines economy with the latest technology. Thanks to its balancer shaft, the small three cylinder is a match for any four cylinder in terms of refinement. At the same time, it makes use of the advantages of its three-cylinder construction – and that means lower consumption, above all. The basic engine for the Polo consumes just 5.8 litres of Super petrol every 100 kilometres.

 

Polo 1.2 4V delivering 47 kW / 65 hp

 

The second candidate among the petrol engines available for the Polo also has three cylinders making up a capacity of 1.2 litres. An essential difference from the basic engine is in the cylinder head where the engine has four valves for each combustion chamber. This engine, which was very popular among customers in the previous Polo generation, benefits from greater performance and lower consumption. The 47 kW / 65 hp three cylinder consumes just 5.9 litres of fuel on average. Compared with a conventional four-cylinder engine, the modern four-valve power plant allows for noticeable fuel savings above all in city traffic.

 

Polo 1.4 4V delivering 55 kW / 75 hp

 

The 1.4-litre engine starts off the group of four cylinders in the latest Polo range. This power plant has also been conceived as a four-valve engine and, delivering 55kW / 75hp, provides enough potential for dynamic driving. From 2,200 rpm, the engine supplies 90 percent of its maximum torque that peaks at 126 Nm. In addition to the lively performance, the 1.4-litre engine has an impressive low consumption at partial load and the total average consumption of 6.4 litres of Super every 100 kilometres does not effect the running costs of the new Polo when equipped with this engine.

 

In addition to its dynamic properties, the 1.4-litre engine can also contribute to convenience – i.e. when it is combined with the optional four-speed automatic gearbox in the Polo.

 

Polo 16V delivering 74 kW / 100 hp

 

Fancy a bit more power? If you look for three-digit output figures when choosing an engine, the second of the 1.4-litre engines will be for you. This power plant is closely related to the 55-kW engine, but has been optimised in a few areas to gain more power. The whole intake system has been modified and been given expanded inlet and outlet channels. Together with a different cam shaft, it allows a higher air throughput contributing to a higher performance level. Accordingly, a top speed of 188 km/h is the dynamic result.

 

Polo 1.4 FSI delivering 63 kW / 86 hp

 

The modern alternative among the petrol engines in the Polo range is provided by the 1.4-litre petrol engine with direct injection (FSI). Delivering 63 kW / 86 hp, it successfully unites dynamics and economy. As usual with the FSI engines from Volkswagen, this power plant also features extremely low consumption values. The Polo FSI consumes just 5.8 litres of Super every 100 kilometres on average. The consumption advantage compared with a petrol engine with conventional mixture preparation is noticeable above all in city traffic. The Polo FSI consumes 13 percent less fuel than a conventional four-cylinder engine in the city.

 

Polo 1.4 TDI delivering 51 kW / 70 hp

 

The new Polo also sees the addition of two more TDIs to the engine range. Like the TDI engines that have already been used, they easily meet the limit values of the Euro 4 emissions norm and are thus among the most environmentally friendly diesel engines ever.

 

The Polo diesel range will start with a 1.4-litre delivering 51 kW / 70 hp. The three-cylinder engine equipped with unit injectors, usual for this type, supplies powerful torque at low revs: At 1,600 rpm, the three-cylinder produces an impressive 155 Nm. This powerful performance is combined with a great reserve when it comes to fuel consumption. The new diesel consumes just 4.5 litres every 100 kilometres on average.

 

Polo 1.4 TDI delivering 59 kW / 80 hp

 

This is another new TDI in the current Polo range, which also has three cylinders and a capacity of 1.4 litres. However, delivering 59 kW / 80 hp, it offers noticeable additional performance compared with the basic diesel. Modifications to the electronic engine control as well as adaptation of the fuel flow quantity boost the power and torque of the three-cylinder diesel. Supplying a maximum torque of 195 Nm at 2,200 rpm, the three-cylinder pulls away swiftly and delivers impressive power. When equipped with this engine, the Polo reaches a top speed of 174 km/h and remains exceedingly efficient – one of the typical TDI virtues. On average, this TDI is happy with a mere 4.4 litres of diesel every 100 kilometres.

 

Polo 1.9 TDI delivering 74 kW / 100 hp

 

The economy of a diesel engine and the dynamics of a sports power plant – combining these two qualities is a matter of course today for the modern diesel engines from Volkswagen. The two four-cylinder TDIs available for the Polo easily fulfil these criteria. The 74 kW / 100 hp 1.9-litre diesel guarantees extremely lively performance with low consumption. A top speed of 188 km/h is possible with this engine as is an average consumption of just 4.9 litres of diesel every 100 kilometres. Equipped with this engine, the Polo features impressive acceleration values thanks to the maximum torque of 240 Nm.

 

Polo 1.9 TDI delivering 96 kW / 130 hp

 

This 1.9-litre, 96 kW / 130 hp TDI also turns the Polo into a real sports car. The extremely powerful maximum torque of 310 Nm at just 1900 rpm also contributes to the impressive performance of the Polo. The compact diesel sports car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.2 seconds and can reach a top speed of 206 km/h. The six-speed manual gearbox, which comes as standard with the Polo’s most powerful diesel, fits in with the sporty character of this engine.

 

Three gearboxes available

 

Four, five or six gears define the current gearbox range for the new Polo. Most of the models use a manual five-speed gearbox, while the high-torque TDI engines are combined with a transmission that has been specially adapted to the requirements.

 

If you are looking for convenience in the Polo and hate having to constantly push down the clutch in slow-moving traffic, the automatic version of the Polo is ideal for you. Volkswagen is offering an optional four-speed automatic gearbox for the 55 kW / 75 hp, 1.4-litre petrol engine.

 

Sporty drivers definitely do not mind gear changes and the sporty Polo TDI with the 96 kW / 130 hp, 1.9-litre TDI engine comes with a six-speed gearbox as standard. It reliably transfers the extremely high torque of this power plant to the driven wheels and allows fast gear shifts for any driving situation.

Body

 

·         Top-class Body Quality

·         High torsional stiffness improves comfort and safety

·         Twelve-year warranty against internal corrosion

 

Above-average body quality belongs to the key qualities of Volkswagen. The new Polo therefore continues where the previous standard-setting Polo generation left off. The high quality standard of the body is obvious to even untrained eyes, for example, when you look at the small gap measurements. This is a clear sign that the Polo has a very high torsional stiffness. This not only prevents undesired noise inside the body structure, but also makes a decisive contribution to the high level of occupant safety. The safety structure of the Polo body provides optimum protection in accidents. The body is also well protected against corrosion. Volkswagen therefore gives a twelve-year guarantee against internal corrosion.

 

The new Polo is 19 millimetres longer than its predecessor and has therefore grown to 3,916 millimetres. Having a width of 1,650 millimetres and a height of 1,465 millimetres the Polo shows how to use area and space ideally.

New interesting colours

 

Volkswagen has eight new colours for the Polo bodywork. Olympic Blue, Silver Bird, Fairway Green, Sunflower, Winter Red, Sunset Red, Shadow Blue and Tossa Blue are not just nice sounding names, they underline the liveliness of the new Polo and the positive feeling that this car expresses.

Chassis

·         Safety and driving comfort top priority

·         Modern chassis design makes Polo even safer

·         Electro/hydraulic steering reduces consumption

 

The chassis design is based on both modern and proven principles that make the Polo one of the most safest cars in its segment. The front axle has been developed using the McPherson principle. The lower wishbones ensure the best possible directional stability. The concept using a subframe optimises the handling and the Polo’s crash safety as well as also reducing the tyre noise.

 

Volkswagen has opted for a semi-independent axle for the rear that makes a decisive contribution to the neutral driving performance of the Polo. The separate configuration of springs and dampers is advantageous for the boot as it allows a wider cargo space.

 

The new Polo features the tried and tested electro/hydraulic power steering, which has been further optimised for sportiness. This system is electrically powered and controlled independently of the engine speed according to needs. Depending on the car speed and the car weight, the hydraulic system is supplied with higher or lower pressure. This system creates advantages above all in fuel consumption. Controlling the powering steering pump according to the situation means less energy is required than conventional power steering pumps.

Following Road to Success for 30 Years

 

·         The standard in its class for three decades

·         Wide variety of models and engines

 

Turning thirty is not always a reason to celebrate, some people end up in mourning when they realise the wild days of their youth are suddenly over. However, for a car, it is a great event when the development of the model generations reaches such an age. Thirty years represent a car life that stands for quality, seriousness, character and credibility and that became possible due to these characteristics. The Polo is celebrating this remarkable anniversary with the launch of a new model generation � reason enough to look back on three decades of a model success story.

 

1975 – The First Generation

 

The first generation of the Polo, introduced in March 1975, already had the essential defining characteristics that it has retained up to this day. The modern front-wheel drive was a guarantee of safe handling and the large tailgate was an advance as well as a practical detail. This small car, which, in terms of technology, was closely related to the Audi 50, provided an opportunity for low-cost entry into the world of Volkswagen. The basic version was available for around 7,500 Deutschmark and was driven by a 29 kW / hp PS four-cylinder engine with a capacity of 900 cubic centimetres. In 1976, Volkswagen added a 1.1-litre engine delivering 37 kW / 50 hp to the range. Just one year later in 1977, the range was expanded to include another body version, the saloon-style Derby. Thanks to its 515-litre boot, it provided new prospects with a classic body shape. The customers’ demands for more also had an effect on the engines as a 1.3-litre delivering 44 kW / 60 hp was made available for the Polo and Derby.

 

1981 – The Second Generation

 

The second generation of the Polo was introduced in August 1981 just before the Frankfurt International Motor Show. A completely new body set new trends. The distinctive steep tail and the resulting more practical boot made the small Polo a great. When the rear bench was folded down, the Polo set the then class record of 1,000 litres of boot volume.

 

In addition to the new shapes, the Polo also developed in the area of environmental friendliness. The Formula E model (for Economy) was particularly fuel efficient due to an engine with higher compression and a higher fourth gear.

 

Besides economy, Volkswagen turned to sportiness when it launched the Polo Coupé with its elegant hatchback in 1982. It not only looked sporty, it also became a real racer in the form of the GT G40 version introduced in 1986 that had a spiral-shaped G-charger and delivered 85 kW / 115 hp. Before that in 1983, the Polo celebrated its first million units produced.

 

Today diesel engines are part of almost all model ranges and the first diesel Polo came in 1986. The first in Volkswagen’s smallest model delivered 33 kW / 45 hp. Back then it was already one of the most fuel efficient power plants and consumed just 6.0 litres of diesel every 100 kilometres. In the same year, the petrol version of the Polo became more environmentally friendly when the first micro catalytic converter was integrated in the exhaust system. At the start of 1990, all petrol engines for the Polo switched to the more modern computer-controlled catalytic converter.

 

The Polo underwent extensive improvements in autumn 1990 with bigger bumpers and rectangular headlights. The engines also gained a few hp of power.

 

1994 – The Third Generation

 

The third generation of the Polo celebrated its premiere in the French capital Paris in 1994. In terms of technology and design, it was noticeably higher quality than its predecessor. The harmonious design was characterised by a rising sideline and painted bumpers made the Polo look even higher quality. The small car had grown and was also available as a four-door for the first time. Fans of traditional body shapes also found the model they wanted when the Polo Classic with a saloon body was introduced. Two years later, the model family continued to grow when another, very practical version, the Polo estate, was added to the best-selling range. 1,260 litres of cargo space made the small estate a very impressive car. The new generation of TDI engines was also added to the Polo range for the first time with the 81 kW / 110 hp TDI.

 

In August 1998, the 88 kW / 120 hp Polo GTI, which could reach speeds over 200 km/h, became the top model. This limited series of 3,000 cars was quickly sold out.

 

The Polo also set numerous production records in its third model generation. In 1995, the four millionth Polo was built. Just two years later the model broke though the five million barrier and the six million mark was reached in 1999.

 

The Frankfurt International Motor Show was the venue for a greatly modified version of the Polo in September 1999. The re-designed front and tail changed the image of the Polo moving it towards the higher compact class. The improved outside quality appearance continues on the inside with a extensively modified interior. The Polo body was fully galvanised for the first time and Volkswagen therefore started offering a twelve-year warranty against internal corrosion. The Polo set standards in this generation with standard front airbags and ABS. The sporty highlight was again the GTI, which delivered 92 kW / 125 hp and was equipped with ESP as standard.

 

2001 – The Fourth Generation

 

A completely new Polo was launched in autumn 2001. This Polo had an unmistakable face with its large round headlights and additional round lights. The dimensions continued to be compact, but the new model grew in all respects. It was considerably longer, wider and taller and had a longer wheelbase than the previous model. This model, which was available with two and four doors from launch, set new standards in terms of manufacturing and material quality, comfort, active and passive safety as well as drive technology. The new engine range included a direct injection petrol engine and two TDIs.

 

The Polo Fun introduced in autumn 2003 followed new ideas standing out with increased ground clearance, large alloy wheels and extraordinary colour designs.

 

So far over 8.7 million models have been produced and the Polo has been the undisputed German market leader in this segment for years.

 

The Polo � A Career

Over 8.5 million units built in 30 years
Unique model and engine variety 

1975	Premiere of the first generation with capacity of 0.9 litres (29 kW / 40 hp) or 1.0 litres (37 kW / 50 hp)
1977	Premiere of Derby saloon version
1981	Launch of second Polo generation
1982	Launch of sporty Polo Coupé and second generation of Derby
1983	The one millionth Polo is built.
1985	The Polo is available with saloon body shape replacing the Derby
1986	Presentation of Polo Coupé GT G40 delivering 84 kW (115 hp) and the 1.3-litre Polo diesel delivering 33 kW (45 hp), Production figure reaches 2,000,000
1990	All petrol engines for the Polo come with computer-controlled catalytic converters; extensive model improvement
1991	3,000,000 Polos have been built since the series launch
1994	Presentation of third Polo generation
1995	Production record of 4,000,000, Model range to expanded to include the Polo Open Air, Polo Colour Concept, Polo Harlekin and the Polo Classic saloon version
1997	Production jubilee with 5,000,000 Polos, Launch of Polo estate
1998	Special model Polo GTI with 1.6-litre 88-kW (120-hp) engine
1999	Extensive model improvements with new look, fully galvanised body
2000	Special model Polo GTI with 1.6-litre 92-kW (125-hp) engine, 25th anniversary
2001	Launch of fourth Polo generation
2003	Launch of Polo saloon, Premiere for Polo TDI delivering 96 kW / 130 hp
2005	Current model generation, new TDI engines. All engines fulfil Euro 4 norm