Soon with six generations – the Polo
The Polo forgoes short-lived effects
"Small on the outside. Big on the inside." – the Polo offers Volkswagen customers a subcompact that does an exemplary job of realizing this claim. When the first generation drove into the limelight in 1975, the compression of the Volkswagen idea to an exterior length of only 351 centimetres was unique. But the Polo has not merely proven itself since then; rather, it has continued to mature, and, after five vehicle generations, can count on a base of loyal fans. Forty-two continuous years on a wide range of vehicle markets across the world and more than 16 million units sold speak for themselves. Before the sixth generation, based on the modular transverse matrix, is launched onto the market, it is worth taking a look at its history.
Polo (1975)
Clear character.
The design DNA of even the first Polo model radiates continuity and confidence in its style. Clarity and balanced proportions are no longer characteristics that set large saloons apart, but have become standard features of the Polo. Its unmistakable lines forgo short-lived effects and are extremely precise in every generation, modern but never trendy. Distinguishing features like the characteristic, wide C-pillars and the clean rear end are recurring motifs throughout the model's history. With such a logical application of design features, a Polo explains itself to the observer and communicates the pleasant feeling of being properly attired in every situation.
A small car with a great tradition of innovation.
The creators of the Polo have always been especially concerned with the issues of appeal and driving fun. That's why Volkswagen has, for five generations, constantly offered versions of the model which represent extraordinarily sporty, efficient or exciting variants of the Polo. In spite of its compact dimensions, there is always room for innovations.
Polo I GT (1980)
It started in 1980 with the Polo I GT, an athlete weighing only 700 kilograms with 60 PS (44 kW). It showed that a Polo could be more than merely sensible.
Polo II Coupé G40 (1987)
In 1987, long before the word "downsizing" was created, a spiral-shaped, single-scroll turbocharger pumped the compact 1.3-litre petrol engine in the Polo II Coupé GT G40 up to 115 PS (85 kW), delivering 148 Newton-meters of torque. A lot of power for an 835-kilogram lightweight.
Polo Colour Concept (1999) / Polo Harlequin (1995)
The Polo III was especially colourful and likewise dynamic: the Colour Concept boasted fine leather, and the Polo Harlequin made its mark with colourful accents.
Polo III GTI (1998)
Three legendary letters appeared for the first time on the grille and boot lid in 1998: GTI. It was the reincarnation of the fleet-footed top model; with a hefty 120 PS (88 kW) and formidable suspension, it was reminiscent of the first GTI in 1976.
Polo Fun (2004)
The Polo Fun, a Polo IV derivative developed by Volkswagen Individual, was launched in the spring of 2004. The special model turned out not to be as irrelevant as first thought. The 5,000 planned vehicles sold out quickly; the off-road look in the style of a sport utility vehicle was popular and paved the way for the beefy CrossPolo.
Polo BlueGT (2012)
The BlueGT of the Polo generation V delivered the proof that ACT (Active Cylinder Management) was an especially clever way to save fuel. The muscular 140 PS (103 kW) engine combined efficiency with driving fun while burning only 4.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (weighted average fuel consumption).
Polo R WRC Street (2013)
Exactly 2,500 units of the Polo R WRC Street, a genuine over-achiever, were produced, starting in 2013. Typical Polo: the 220 PS (162 kW) homologation model for the WRC World Rally Championship was fully capable as a daily driver while bringing a pure rally-car feeling to the streets.
Sneak peek: The new Volkswagen Polo
More technology.
The sixth generation of the Polo reinterprets traditional subcompact values. Its design is even more emotive and more forceful in expression. What's more, the newest Polo's increased exterior dimensions offer a palpable increase in space and comfort, and the car feels more mature than ever.
A quality of workmanship usually found only in higher classes is another solid reason for the enduring enthusiasm for the Polo. Polo VI enthusiasts can look forward to the full potential of the modular transverse matrix and a sophisticated, enduring design with compact dimensions. The bundle of numerous new driver assist systems and Infotainment technologies makes the newest generation the best and most up-to-date Polo ever.