There have also been some unforgettable special editions of the compact car, such as these four iconic models. 16 1750 YEARS OF POLO SPECIAL MODELS A COLOURFUL FUN CAR It is one of the most curious and iconic models Volkswagen has ever launched on the market: the the Polo Harlekin (“Harlequin”). When the third-generation Polo was introduced in 1995, it brought about something new: equipment packages that could be freely combined. The sales brochure illustrated the modular system with four colours: Pistachio Green stood for the paintwork, Chagall Blue represented the engine and chassis, Ginster Yellow symbolised the equipment, and Flash Red indicated special equipment. In order to visualise the principle on the Polo as well, 20 vehicles were initially repainted in four colours and distributed to the showrooms of Volkswagen dealerships. Demand was high and the marketing gag became a resounding success – in the end, exactly 3,806 units rolled off the production line. In view of this success, Volkswagen decided to also launch a Harlequin model on the American market. The Golf III was chosen for this. But demand for the Golf Harlequin was limited. Nevertheless, the Harlekin is a cult classic. To this day, the colourful look of the Polo Harlekin still intrigues people – and even inspires modern models: Marco Degenhardt, a passionate gearhead and successful YouTuber (‘Halle77 Dortmund’ and ‘Marcos neue Welt’ (‘Marco’s new world’)) is probably the biggest self-confessed Harlekin fan. He has created a new interpretation of the design with the VW e-up! and VW ID.3. ID.3 HARLEKIN, 2024 Developed from a spontaneous idea, the modern Harlekin was created in the workshop in Halle 77. GOLF III HARLEQUIN, 1996 Volkswagen also launched a ‘Harlequin’ model in the US.