Media Information

Polo

February 2017

Introduction background 2 summary 5 production 6

Design dimensions 8 exterior 8 interior 8

Technical highlights infotainment systems 10 Automatic Post-Collision Braking System 10 Driver Alert 10 Adaptive Cruise Control 11

Engines 1.0-litre 60 PS, 75 PS, 95 PS and 110 PS 13 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS 14 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS ACT 14 1.8-litre TSI 192 PS (GTI) 14 common rail diesel technology 15 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS and 90 PS 15 BlueMotion Technology 16 gearboxes 16 servicing 18

Running gear front and rear axle 19 steering and braking systems 19

Equipment highlights S 20 Match, beats 21 SEL, R-Line, BlueGT 22 BlueMotion, GTI 23

Safety and security features 24 line-up with insurance groups 25

Warranties details 26

Chronology history by generation 26

Volkswagen Press and Public Relations Telephone 01908 601187 Volkswagen (UK) www.vwpress.co.uk Yeomans Drive Blakelands Milton Keynes MK14 5AN

THE POLO

• Completely new range of EU6-compliant engines • All-new touchscreen infotainment systems • Range of advanced driver assistance systems • New electro-mechanical steering system • Redesigned front and rear

Introduction and summary

The latest iteration of the Polo, Volkswagen’s evergreen supermini which has been a sales success since 1975, went on sale in the UK at the end of April 2014, with first customer deliveries in July. This new model made its debut earlier in 2014 at the Geneva Motor Show in March, bringing a new design, a new range of EU6 engines and the most advanced range of assistance and infotainment systems available in a car of this class.

Redefining benchmarks, this new Polo looks set to continue the success story written by its predecessors, 14 million of which have been sold worldwide. In 2016 the number of Polos sold around the world was 386,776. It’s little wonder those figures are so impressive: with a wide range of engine and equipment levels, there is a Polo to appeal to every customer from teenagers to pensioners alike.

The Polo now features a range of new EU6-compliant engines offering fuel efficiency improvements of up to 26 per cent over the old units. Petrol options are two three-cylinder 1.0-litre Multi Point Injection units with 60 or 75 PS; a 1.0-litre TSI with 95 PS, a 1.2-litre four- cylinder TSI engine with 90 PS and a 1.4-litre TSI engine with cylinder deactivation (ACT), with power increased by 10 PS to 150 PS. There is also a 1.8-litreTSI with 192 PS, which is exclusively available in the Polo GTI. Diesel options are two new three-cylinder 1.4-litre TDI engines, with 75 and 90 PS.

As well as ESC electronic stability control, all new Polos are equipped with Hill Hold and – a first in this class – an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System which brakes the vehicle after a collision to reduce kinetic energy significantly, thereby minimising the chance or consequences of a second impact. New optional safety features include a Driver Alert System (standard on BlueGT) and Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and City Emergency Braking.

Volkswagen’s modular infotainment system is also used across the Polo range. The touchscreen system includes a proximity sensor and a function that reacts to wiping movements by the fingers (as used on smartphones). All UK models offer Bluetooth telephone connectivity and USB media-in, while a navigation system for the 6.5-inch full-colour touchscreen is optional from Match trim.

The Polo range starts with the S. As well as a six-speaker Composition Audio System with 5.0- inch colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB and AUX-in connections, the S includes features such as a height-adjustable driver’s seat, cup holders, and stylish ‘gloss black’ interior highlights. The S A/C model adds manual air conditioning.

Moving up to Match trim brings more equipment including 15-inch ‘Stratford’ alloy wheels; a chrome-trimmed front air intake strip; body-coloured door handles; electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors; a leather-trimmed three-spoke multi-function steering wheel (plus leather-covered gear lever and handbrake lever); a multi-function computer; remote locking and an alarm with interior protection; manual air conditioning; and a Composition Media

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System with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen which adds a glovebox-mounted CD player and more graphical interfaces. Inside there are chrome highlights throughout the cabin, while the five- door models get electric rear windows.

Technology comes as standard in the Match Edition model, which adds App-Connect. This is the element of Volkswagen’s Car-Net that brings the functionality of a smartphone into the Polo. And the Match Edition includes automatic coming/leaving home lighting, which stays on for a period of time after the engine is switched off, and automatic lights via a dusk sensor. Also included are electrically foldable door mirrors, automatic windscreen wipers and an auto- dimming interior rear-view mirror.

A recent addition to the Polo range is the Polo beats. Volkswagen has joined forces with world- renowned audio specialist Beats Electronics to launch a range of Polo special editions that feature a stunning sound system wrapped in fresh styling cues. The Polo beats features a state- of-the-art sound system comprising a 300-watt, eight-channel amplifier that is fitted with a digital signal processor (DSP). By comparison, in Match trim the Polo comes with an 80-watt system. The DSP in the Polo beats delivers high-performance audio processing that gives clarity and definition to each of the seven high-end loudspeakers.

Featuring 16-inch ‘Knight’ alloy wheels, the equipment list of the Polo beats continues with front sports seats with Alcantara side bolsters; darkened rear light clusters and Car-Net App- Connect – plus that stunning sound system.

Building on the Polo Match is the Polo SEL, which adds 16-inch ‘Rivazza’ alloy wheels; LED headlights; separate LED daytime running lights; headlight washers; low washer fluid warning light; and a front centre armrest with storage compartment.

Sporty looks lift the Polo R-Line towards the top of the Polo range. The Polo R-Line features the sharp ‘R-Line’ styling pack, which includes revised front and rear bumpers, radiator grille and side skirts. In addition, there is unique ‘R-Line’ badging and aluminium-look pedals, plus a black rooflining and front sports seats with the ‘R-Line’ logo on the head restraints.

The Polo BlueMotion model enjoys high fuel efficiency with its 1.0-litre 95 PS TSI engine. Its CO₂ figure is 98 g/km and on the combined cycle it reaches 67.3 mpg.

Nearing the top of the Polo range is the powerful yet parsimonious BlueGT model, which comes with a 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS engine with ACT cylinder deactivation. The BlueGT rides on 17-inch ‘Montani’ alloy wheels and 15 mm lower sport suspension, while it is distinguished visually by its unique body styling kit, including side skirts and unique bumpers, gloss black radiator grille and door mirror caps. Inside there are sports seats trimmed in ‘BlueSpeed’ cloth with Alcantara bolsters and a black roof lining. An XDS electronic differential lock for improved traction and handling is standard, as is cruise control and a Driver Alert System.

As well as the already-mentioned Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and City Emergency Braking and ‘Discover’ navigation system, options for the Polo include automatic lights and wipers, electronic climate control, an electric sliding glass sunroof, electrically folding door mirrors, bi-xenon headlights, and a new rear-view camera.

Going a step further is the Polo GTI, with its 1.8-litre 192 PS TSI engine. The Polo GTI features 17-inch ‘Parabolica’ wheels with lowered suspension and a body-coloured rear spoiler. The classic honeycomb radiator grille melds with a variety of other styling cues that reveal the

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potency of the Polo GTI package. And the XDS electronic differential lock improves traction and handling.

The latest Volkswagen Polo has earned considerable sporting success. The four-wheel drive Polo R WRC won the FIA World Rally Championship for Drivers’ and Manufacturers’ in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Frenchman Sébastien Ogier claimed four consecutive Drivers’ titles in the car. Now the Polo is competing in the FIA World Rallycross Championship in the hands of former World Rally champion Petter Solberg and his team-mate Johan Kristoffersson.

In the UK, the Polo is Volkswagen’s second best-selling car after the Golf, with 47,161 finding homes in 2016.

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SUMMARY

• All engines are EU6-compliant and offer fuel efficiency gains of up to 26 per cent over the old units. Standard petrol options are two three-cylinder 1.0-litre MPI units with 60 or 75 PS; two 1.0- litre TSI units with 95 and 110PS, a 1.2-litre four-cylinder TSI engines with 90 PS and a 1.4-litre TSI with cylinder deactivation (ACT), and power up 10 PS to 150 PS in the BlueGT. Diesels are three- cylinder 1.4-litre TDI engines, with 75 and 90 PS • In addition the GTI has at its heart a 1.8-litre TSI with 192 PS, while the BlueMotion features a 1.0-litre TSI with 95 PS and CO₂ emissions of 98 g/km • As well as ESC electronic stability control, all new Polos are equipped with Hill Hold and an Automatic Post-Collision Braking System that brakes the vehicle after a collision to reduce kinetic energy significantly, minimising the chance or gravity of a second impact. New safety features include Driver Alert System and Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and City Emergency Braking • The whole range includes Volkswagen’s modular infotainment system. Touchscreen includes proximity sensor and reacts to wiping movements (as on smartphones). All UK models offer Bluetooth connectivity and USB media-in, while navigation for the 6.5-inch touchscreen is optional from Match trim • Range starts with the S with six-speaker Composition Audio System, 5.0-inch colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB and AUX-in connections. Also includes height- adjustable driver’s seat, cup holders, ‘gloss black’ interior highlights. • Match trim brings 15-inch ‘Stratford’ alloys; driver alert system; chrome-trimmed air intake; body-coloured door handles and electrically adjustable door mirrors; leather- covered gear lever, handbrake lever and three-spoke multi-function steering wheel; multifunction display; remote locking and alarm; air conditioning; and the Composition Media System with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, CD player and iPod/MP3 connectivity • Polo beats has 16-inch ‘Knight’ alloy wheels a 300 watt audio system. This includes an eight channel amplifier and Digital Sound Processor. Front sports seats, LED footwell lighting and darkened rear light clusters are among the styling features • The SEL adds 16-inch ‘Rivazza’ alloys; LED headlights; front fog lights; tinted rear windows; a front centre armrest with storage; cruise control; and front and rear parking sensors • R-Line model adds 16-inch Salvador alloys, R-Line styling pack and sports seats. Aluminium- look pedals and a black rooflining are also included • BlueGT has 1.4-litre TSI 150 PS and cylinder deactivation. Rides on 17-inch ‘Montani’ alloys and 15 mm lower sport suspension. Styling includes skirts, unique bumpers, ‘Gloss Black grille and door mirror caps. Inside are sports seats in ‘BlueSpeed’ cloth with Alcantara bolsters and black roof lining. XDS electronic differential lock is also standard • GTI model adds 17-inch ‘Parabolica’ alloy wheels, GTI styling pack and a host of sporty details including ‘Jacara’ cloth seats and red brake calipers • Options include Adaptive Cruise Control, ‘Discover’ navigation system, auto lights and wipers, climate control, an electric glass sunroof and electrically folding mirrors • The Polo is Volkswagen UK’s second-best-selling model, with 47,161 sales in 2016. Seventy per cent of Polo sales are to retail customers, and just under 70 per cent of cars ordered are five-door models. Original Polo was announced in 1975. European sales started in March of that year and in the UK in June. Total Polo sales worldwide amount to 14 million 5

PRODUCTION

The Polo is produced at two Volkswagen production facilities: Uitenhage in South Africa and the Volkswagen Navarra plant in Pamplona, Spain.

Volkswagen of South Africa The Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) plant is situated in Uitenhage, an industrial town approximately 750 km east of Cape Town. Slightly more than half (298,541 square meters) of the plant's 518,912 square meters area consists of production facilities.

Apart from producing engines for the entire Volkswagen Group, the Uitenhage plant currently produces the Polo and Polo Vivo (for the local South African market only). In 2015, 120,000 vehicles were produced, of which 55.3 per cent were exported.

Environment With the ‘Think Blue. Factory.’ initiative, the Volkswagen brand has set itself clear targets for the environmentally sustainable positioning of all its plants. By 2018, the aim was to reduce the environmental impact of all Volkswagen plants by 25 per cent. In this regard VWSA has already achieved this with a 35 per cent reduction in energy usage, 53 per cent reduction in water consumption, 60 per cent reduction in waste production, CO₂ emissions have been reduced by 33 per cent and solvent emissions have reduced by 31 per cent.

Corporate Social Responsibilities Volkswagen Group South Africa is actively engaged in many different social upliftment programs in the area, and increasingly on a national level. VWSA is also involved in environmental projects and job creation. Under the umbrella of "Volkswagen for Good" VWSA focuses its activities on education, youth development, enterprise development, health, community, wellbeing and employee volunteering as well as environmental initiatives – with the aim of being a company that has meaning and impact for the employees and the communities around VWSA.

History The company was founded in 1946, under the name "South African Motor Assemblers and Distributors" (SAMAD), and initially assembled cars for the American manufacturer Studebaker. The first Volkswagen Beetle rolled off the assembly line in 1951. In 1956, Volkswagen AG acquired shares in SAMAD. In 1966, the company's name was changed to "Volkswagen of South Africa". In 1974, VWSA became a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen AG.

Today, VWSA represents the largest investment by a German company in Southern Africa and plays a key role in foreign direct investment, employee training and technology transfer. VWSA employs over 4,000 people and is therefore not only the largest private employer but also the largest rates and taxpayer in the Eastern Cape Province. In 2015, VWSA manufactured 120,000 vehicles and about 113,000 engines for the domestic and export markets. The Polo Vivo is marketed solely in South Africa while the right-hand-drive five-door Polo and the Cross Polo are exported throughout the world.

Volkswagen Navarra The facilities of Volkswagen Navarra, S.A. in Pamplona, Spain, have an area of some 1,630,000 square metres, of which around 303,600 sq m is buildings. The Pamplona plant is where the Polo is manufactured. About 298,400 vehicles were produced at the plant in 2015.

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Polo Park Also on the site of the plant, is the ‘Polo Park’, a joint foundation of Volkswagen Navarra and the Caja de Ahorros de Navarra, the Navarra savings bank. Occupying an area of over 20,000 sq m and inaugurated in 1999 by the Spanish King and Queen, the Polo Park is a centre for road safety. Cycling proficiency tracks, a go-kart circuit, a road safety training area and interactive classrooms are used to teach road safety and traffic sense to around 10,000 school children a year.

History Volkswagen Navarra, S.A. was founded in 1965 under the name of "AUTHI" - Automóviles de Turismo Hispano Ingleses. The first vehicle to be produced in 1966 was a green Morris 1100. Nine years later, the plant was acquired by SEAT. The first car produced after the takeover in 1976 was a white SEAT 124. In 1982 SEAT and Volkswagen concluded a cooperation agreement, after which the second-generation Polo went into production at Pamplona in 1984. The name of the plant has been changed three times since it was set up in the capital of Navarra. In 1993 under SEAT control, AUTHI became the "Fabrica Navarra de Automoviles S.A.". When Volkswagen acquired Seat in 1994 the new subsidiary was renamed "Volkswagen Navarra, S.A." Since the start of production in 1984, Volkswagen Navarra has produced more than seven million units of the Polo.

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DESIGN

The Polo was one of the first to gain the ‘Volkswagen DNA’, aligning it with cars such as the Golf and Scirocco. This latest model is revised front and back with new lights and bumpers, plus cleaner lines to make it look sharper and more dynamic. Dimensions are virtually unchanged: the Polo is now 3,972 mm long (+2 mm), 1,682 mm wide, and 1,453 mm high (-9 mm) with a 2,470 mm wheelbase.

Exterior The design of the Polo remains modern, clean and efficient. In contrast to so many cars in the supermini sector the Polo is crafted to be timeless and does not follow short-term fashion trends. Its dimensions give a purposeful and dynamic stance, while the design is sharp without styling gimmicks. Volkswagen’s consistently high resale values are in part due to these qualities.

At the front The front-end design of the Polo has a much more three-dimensional and sporty look due to its redesigned bumper and larger lower air intake. Acting as a design detail providing structure, a new chrome trim connects the two fog lights and makes the Polo appear wider; at the same time, the visual focus is lowered by the trim. Meanwhile, another chrome element also supports the formal integration of the grille into the headlight design on the Polo Match and BlueGT, joining the centres of the headlights with the horizontal alignment of the radiator grille.

This latest Polo is the first to use LED lighting. The car’s LED dual headlights have a highly detailed avant-garde design and prominent reflectors, making them unmistakable. The light of the LED headlights is even whiter and more similar to daylight than that of xenon headlights, and it is less straining to the eyes of drivers while driving in half light.

At the back In the rear bumper area, the car’s width is emphasised by further developed styling, a cleaner horizontal layout and a wider cut-out for the licence plate. The trapezoidal outer contour of this area extends towards the rear wheels, which creates a more dynamic tension of surfaces. The rear reflectors, now embedded in the bumper, also give the visual impression of greater width. The rear lights were redesigned as well, while LED numberplate lighting lends an additional touch of class.

Interior In designing the Polo’s interior, developers once again set themselves the target of giving the car the level of quality and comfort that occupants would expect to find in a vehicle from one or several classes above. This meant providing the best in ergonomics, regardless of the size of the driver and passengers, as well as every surface and switch being easy and pleasant to touch.

The Polo’s cabin is bright, comfortable and modern, with a completely new and class-leading infotainment system now standard on all models. Volkswagen’s modular infotainment system (first seen on the Golf Mk VII) brings a touchscreen system with a proximity sensor and a function that reacts to wiping movements by the fingers (as used on smartphones). All models offer Bluetooth telephone connectivity and USB media-in, while a navigation system for the 6.5-inch full-colour touchscreen is optional.

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All the Polo’s controls are new, within easy reach of the driver and passenger and intuitive (and hence safe) to use. Adding extra class and a feeling of being in a car from a higher segment, S adds gloss black highlights in the cabin while Match adds matt chrome touches Illustrating its high levels of technology, the entry-level S model features a six-speaker Composition Audio System with 5.0-inch colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB and AUX-in connections, as well as a height-adjustable driver’s seat, vanity mirrors and cup holders. Match and above gain Volkswagen’s Composition Media System with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen which adds a glovebox mounted CD player and more graphical interfaces, as well as the option of Discover Navigation as seen in the Golf, Passat and Tiguan.

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TECHNICAL HIGHLIGHTS

In this generation of Polo, Volkswagen is ‘democratising luxury’ yet further and making available as standard or an option a number of features which would until now have been the preserve of a higher class of vehicle. Many come from the Golf, which itself sets a new benchmark in safety, comfort and convenience.

Infotainment systems The latest Polo is equipped with radio and radio/navigation systems with completely new designs. All systems have a colour touchscreen as standard, which measures 5.0 inches in S, or 6.5 inches in Match and above.

All displays have proximity sensors so as soon as the driver or front passenger moves a finger near to the touchscreen, the system automatically switches from display mode to input mode. The display mode shows a screen that is reduced to just the essentials. In the operating mode, on the other hand, the elements that can be activated by touch are specially highlighted to simplify intuitive operation.

‘Composition Media’ system (standard on Match and above) With this sophisticated system, there are four buttons to the left and four to the right of the touchscreen. It works in conjunction with the following features: • DAB digital radio • Bluetooth telephone connection for compatible units • glovebox-mounted single CD player • MDI (Multi Device Interface); SD card reader; AUX-in socket • music playback from MP3, WMA and AAC files • title and cover art display • eight speakers, front and rear • 4 x 20 watt output • car menu • ‘Think Blue. Trainer.’ with driver tips and journey analysis to maximise economy

‘Discover Navigation’ system (available on all but S) Customers can upgrade to this sophisticated infotainment and sat nav system which adds the following features: • preloaded European navigation data • 2D / 2.5D map view • choice of route options (Fast, Short, Eco) • dynamic navigation based on TMC+ data • branded points of interest • speed limit display • Car-Net ‘Guide & Inform’ – online access to useful information

ABS, ESC and XDS The previous generation Polo benefited from standard ABS and ESC. Polo BlueGT and GTI models now also benefit from XDS electronic differential lock for improved traction and handling. Technically speaking, XDS is a functional extension of the electronic limited-slip differential (EDL) which is a part of the standard ESC system.

Automatic Post-Collision Braking System (standard on all) An innovative new feature which has come straight from the seventh-generation Golf to the Polo is the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Studies have found that around a quarter

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of all traffic accidents involving personal injury are multiple collision incidents, in other words, when there is a second impact after the initial collision.

The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System automatically brakes the vehicle when it is involved in an accident in order significantly to reduce its residual kinetic energy and hence prevent or minimise the severity of a subsequent collision.

Triggering of the system is based on detection of a primary collision by the airbag sensors. Vehicle braking is limited by the ESC control unit to a maximum deceleration rate of 0.6 g. This value matches the deceleration level of Front Assist and ensures that the driver can take over handling of the car even in case of automatic braking.

The driver can ‘override’ the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System at any time; for example, if the system recognises that the driver is accelerating, it is disabled. The system is also deactivated if the driver initiates hard braking at an even higher rate of deceleration. Essentially, the system applies the brakes until a vehicle speed of 10 km/h is reached, so this residual vehicle speed can be used to steer to a safe location after the braking process.

Driver Alert system (standard from Match) It is estimated that a quarter of motorway accidents are caused by driver tiredness. For this reason Volkswagen offers an innovative fatigue detection system, which is particularly valuable for company car drivers who may cover long distances without a scheduled break.

The Polo’s Driver Alert system does not work in the same way as those from other manufacturers which monitor eye movements. Instead, for the first 15 minutes of a journey the system analyses the driver’s characteristic steering and driving behaviour. Further into the journey the system continually evaluates signals such as steering angle, use of pedals and transverse acceleration. If the monitored parameters indicate a deviation from the initial behaviour recorded at the beginning of the trip, then waning concentration is assumed and warnings issued.

The system warns the driver with an acoustic signal lasting five seconds, while a visual message also appears in the instrument cluster recommending a break. If the driver does not take a break within the next 15 minutes, the warning is repeated.

This assistance system cannot detect so-called ‘microsleep’ but instead focuses on detecting early phases of lapses in concentration. This means it is much less costly than an eye movement monitoring based system – and also still functions when the driver is wearing sunglasses or driving in the dark.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) (optional from Match) This system uses a radar sensor integrated into the front of the car to detect distance from the car in front, maintain a preselected speed and automatically brake or accelerate in traffic.

It operates over a speed range from 30 to 160 km/h (approx. 18 to 99 mph) with a manual gearbox and with DSG. In vehicles with DSG, ACC intervenes to such an extent that the car may be slowed to a standstill, depending on the situation. It may also automatically pull away in stop-and-go traffic. ACC maintains a preselected speed and a defined distance to the vehicle ahead, and it automatically brakes or accelerates in flowing traffic.

ACC also incorporates Front Assist and City Emergency Braking which operates at speeds below 30 km/h (approx. 18 mph). If the car is in danger of colliding with a vehicle driving or parked up

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ahead and the driver does not react, the brake system is prepared to react. If the driver fails to intervene, City Emergency Braking then automatically initiates hard braking to reduce the severity of the impact. In addition, if the driver is initiating braking, but fails to press the brake pedal sufficiently, the system will assist with maximum braking power.

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ENGINES

The standard Polo line-up offers customers seven petrol and two diesel engines. All are EU6- compliant and offer fuel efficiency improvements of up to 26 per cent over the old units. Petrol options are two three-cylinder 1.0-litre MPI units with 60 or 75 PS (as seen in the up!); a 1.0- litre TSI engine with 110 PS, a 1.2-litre four-cylinder TSI engine with 90 PS and a 1.4-litre TSI engine with cylinder deactivation (ACT), and an output of 150 PS. Diesel options are two new three-cylinder 1.4-litre TDI engines, with 75 and 90 PS.

Also available is a petrol Polo BlueMotion with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder 95 PS engine, with consumption and emissions of 67.3 mpg combined and 94 g/km CO₂. Also available is a Polo GTI, offered (unlike in the previous model) with a choice of either manual or DSG gearbox, and a 1.8-litre TSI engine with 192 PS.

Petrol engines

1.0-litre, 999 cc MPI, 12-valve 3-cyl, 60 PS From its small 999 cc capacity, the entry-level Polo develops peak power of 60 PS at 5,000 to 6,000 rpm, and maximum torque of 95 Nm (70 lbs ft) from 3,000 to 4,300 rpm. Standstill to 62 mph takes 15.5 seconds and top speed is 100 mph. This engine returns a combined 58.9 mpg while emitting 108 g/km of carbon dioxide. These figures are enhanced by the addition of Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technology modifications, including Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.

1.0-litre, 999 cc MPI, 12-valve 3-cyl, 75 PS The higher powered entry-level engine produces 75 PS at 6,200 rpm and, like the 60 PS version, 95 Nm (70 lbs ft) of torque from 3,000 to 4,300 rpm. The sprint from zero to 62 mph takes 14.3 seconds – just over a second less than in the 60 PS version – and this Polo has a top speed of 107 mph.

Fuel economy is still frugal with a combined economy of 58.9 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions of 108 g/km.

TSI petrol engine technology The TSI name describes all of Volkswagen’s pioneering forced-induction petrol engines. These units produce high levels of power with low emissions and fuel consumption from a relatively small capacity. Where FSI uses the direct injection of petrol into the combustion chamber to improve efficiency and hence reduce fuel consumption and emissions, TSI takes this a step further and uses an FSI engine which is then either dual-charged through a combination of an engine driven supercharger and an exhaust gas turbocharger arranged in series for higher power outputs, or simply supercharged for lower power outputs and lower cost.

Key to the TSI’s success is that direct injection allows an abnormally high compression ratio of 10:1 to be used in conjunction with high maximum boost pressure of up to 2.5 bar absolute. This enables the relatively small engine to use very long gearing to provide exceptional fuel efficiency for a petrol engine, particularly at motorway cruising speeds. As an additional bonus, the TSI engine provides driver enjoyment, producing high power and torque across a rev range from 1,000 to 6,500 rpm.

1.0-litre, 999 cc TSI, 3-cyl, 95 PS (BlueMotion model only) Available only in the BlueMotion model, this frugal three-cylinder unit is equipped with a five- speed manual transmission as standard. It generates 95 PS and 160 Nm of torque between

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1,500 and 3,500rpm. Thanks to the exceptional efficiency of Volkswagen’s TSI system, this engine is capable of returning 67.3 mpg on the combined cycle and has CO₂ emissions of just 98 g/km.

1.0-litre, 999cc TSI, 3-cyl, 110PS The most powerful three-cylinder engine available in the Polo, this unit offers the perfect combination of efficiency and performance. Capable of returning up to 61.4 mpg on the combined cycle and with CO₂ emissions of just 103 g/km (106 DSG), this engine punches well above its weight. Fitted with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, it can be specified with a seven-speed DSG for those who prefer a two-pedal set-up.

1.2-litre, 1,197 cc TSI, 16-valve 4-cyl, 90 PS Replacing the Polo’s previous 1.4-litre 85 PS petrol unit is a new 1.2-litre with 90 PS, which is offered with a standard five-speed manual gearbox, or seven-speed DSG automatic option. This is a TSI engine, incorporating turbo direct injection for a high power output relative to the engine’s 1,197 cubic capacity.

Maximum power of 90 PS is available at 4,800 rpm, with a torque output of 160 Nm (118 lbs ft) from just 1,400 to 4,000 rpm. Performance is lively with 0 to 62 mph coming up in 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 114 mph. This Polo has a fuel consumption figure of 60.1 mpg on the combined cycle and carbon dioxide emissions of 109 g/km (109 DSG).

1.4-litre TSI ACT (Active Cylinder Technology), 1,390 cc, 16-valve 4-cyl, 150 PS The Polo BlueGT, which was introduced into the UK in December 2012, was the first Volkswagen production car to mix the performance of a petrol motor with the frugality of a diesel through the use of ACT cylinder deactivation.

At its heart, and responsible in large part for its combination of high performance and low fuel economy, is an engine which under light and medium loads, shuts down the second and third cylinders automatically, producing fuel savings of up to 0.4 litres per 100 km in the EU driving cycle. At a constant 50 kmh (30 mph) the savings can be as much as one litre per 100 km, and even at 70 kmh (44 mph) in fifth gear, around 0.7 litres per 100 km can be saved.

Cylinder deactivation occurs at engine speeds of between 1,400 and 4,000 rpm, and at torque outputs of 25 to 100 Nm (18 to 74 lbs ft). If the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the two cylinders are imperceptibly reactivated. All mechanical switchovers occur within 13 to 36 milliseconds, depending on engine speed. The multifunction display in the instrument binnacle lets the driver know when cylinders are deactivated.

The results speak for themselves: the new Polo BlueGT’s turbocharged 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine produces 150 PS (up from 140 in the previous generation) and 250 Nm (184 lbs ft) of torque from 1,500 to 3,000 rpm, yet it returns 58.9 mpg (same for the DSG model) on the combined cycle and emits just 110 g/km (111 DSG) of CO₂. Top speed is 137 mph and zero to 62 mph takes just 7.8 seconds.

Polo GTI 1.8-litre (1,798 cc) TSI, 16-valve, 4-cyl, 192 PS The fourth generation Polo GTI made debut at Paris Motor Show in October and follows the series of high-performance compact cars which began in 1985 with the Polo G40. The latest model has at its heart a new 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine which delivers 192 PS between 4,200 and 6,200 rpm (5,400-6,200 DSG). This is up 12 PS from the previous generation. 14

Maximum torque of 320 Nm (236 lbs ft) is available between 1,450 and 4,200 rpm (250 Nm (184 lbs ft) between 1,250 and 5,300 rpm for the DSG due to technical differences in the design parameters of the gearboxes). Standstill to 62 mph takes 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 146 mph regardless of gearbox. But the GTI remains efficient with a combined fuel consumption figure of 47.1 mpg and corresponding carbon dioxide emissions of 140 g/km for the manual (50.4 mpg and 129g/km for the DSG).

The Polo GTI uses a newly developed four-cylinder EA888 engine. The 2.0 litre version of this engine family is used to power the Golf GTI among other vehicles. A variety of new technologies have been incorporated into this third generation of the engine, including the water-cooled exhaust gas routing to the turbocharger, which has been fully integrated into the cylinder head, making crucial contribution towards improving fuel consumption at full load.

In addition, the TSI has variable valve timing with dual camshaft adjustment, while valve lift on the exhaust side can be switched in two stages. This enables optimal control of the charge exchange process for better performance, fuel economy and lower emissions. The four-cylinder engine also features a dual high-pressure injection system (200 bar) with direct and manifold injection. The freely selectable injection type results in lower particle emissions and also reduces fuel consumption.

A further highlight is a newly developed rotary-slide control which is used for the first time in this engine for implementing an intelligent thermal management system: for example, it is now possible to completely block the intake of coolant into the engine during the warm-up phase of the 1.8 TSI, or reduce it to a minimum, in order to get the engine up to operating temperature more quickly. Once the engine is running at normal temperature there is fully variable control of the coolant temperature.

It has also been possible to reduce the weight of the engine, which has a new single-scroll turbocharger. A large portion of the savings came from the new thin-wall crankcase (3 mm thick), a weight-optimised crankshaft, the integrated exhaust manifold, a plastic oil pan and the use of aluminium screws. Total reduction: 5.4 kg.

Diesel engines The Polo is available with a choice of two three-cylinder 1.4-litre common rail diesel engines, both of which comply with EU6 emissions legislation.

Using a common rail system, the diesel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber at pressures up to 1,600 bar. Piezo actuators control multiple injections with highly precise fuel quantities and timing. In an effort to reduce internal engine friction, crankshaft, valve and oil pump drives were optimised, while a square bore/stroke ratio minimises friction losses at the cylinder liners. Losses were also reduced in oil and coolant circuits as well as the air induction system.

1.4-litre, 1,422 cc TDI, 12-valve 3-cyl, 75 PS The Polo’s entry-level diesel engine produces 75 PS from 3,000 to 3,750 rpm and 210 Nm (154 lbs ft) of torque from 1,500 to 2,000 rpm. Zero to 62 mph takes 12.9 seconds while top speed is 107 mph. Where this engine excels is on economy: it returns 74.3 mpg on the combined cycle while emitting just 97 g/km of CO₂. This engine is available with a five-speed manual gearbox only.

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1.4-litre, 1,422 cc TDI, 12-valve 3-cyl, 90 PS For those looking for additional performance, this is the most powerful diesel Polo available. Also driving through a five-speed manual gearbox, this engine produces 90 PS at 3,500 rpm and 230 Nm (169 lbs ft) of torque from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. The 0 to 62 mph sprint takes 10.9 seconds and this Polo goes on to a top speed of 114 mph. The combined economy figure is 74.3 mpg and carbon dioxide emissions are 97 g/km – the same as for the 75 PS version.

BlueMotion Technology (standard on all models) BlueMotion Technology models are a range of vehicles developed by Volkswagen that strike a balance between the highly focussed BlueMotion vehicles and the conventional products on which they are based. The range, carrying ‘BlueMotion Technology’ badging, combines efficiency with comfort and equipment to create vehicles that deliver greater economy and produce fewer emissions yet remain practical and stylish as well as conventional to drive, service and maintain.

The breadth of BlueMotion Technology modifications varies from range to range. In the Polo, it incorporates Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems.

The battery regeneration system is designed to help utilise energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. In deceleration and braking phases, the alternator’s voltage is boosted and used for bulk recharging of the car’s battery. Thanks to alternator control, it is possible to lower alternator voltage, for example during deceleration or driving at constant speed. It is even possible to switch off the alternator entirely which reduces engine load and improves fuel consumption.

In addition, BlueMotion Technology models have an additional battery data module (to acquire momentary charge status), a heavy-duty starter, a DC/DC converter (guarantees voltage stability of the onboard electrical system) and a battery with excellent deep cycle performance.

The automatic Stop/Start system in the Polo is operated through the clutch pedal. When coming to a halt at traffic lights, for example, the driver depresses the clutch and selects neutral. When the clutch is released, the engine shuts down and a ‘Start/Stop’ symbol illuminates on the multifunction display. In order to move away, the driver simply depresses the clutch once again to select first gear and the engine restarts automatically. The system can be deactivated through a switch, if necessary. With the DSG gearbox, the Stop/Start system is activated through the brake pedal.

Gearboxes

The 1.0-litre 60 PS, 1.0-litre 75 PS, 1.2-litre 90 PS and both 1.4-litre TDIs come with a standard five-speed manual gearbox. The 1.0-litre 110PS and 1.4-litre TSI come with a standard six- speed gearbox. The 1.2-litre TSI 90 and 110 PS as well as the BlueGT with 1.4-litre 150 PS engine are also available with the option of a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. The BlueMotion has a standard 5-speed manual, while the Polo GTI – unlike in the previous generation – is available with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG gearbox.

DSG – Direct Shift Gearbox Launched in 2005, Volkswagen’s six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) was a true innovation, combining the comfort of an automatic gearbox with the responsiveness and fuel efficiency of a manual unit. Essentially it uses two clutches, one to control the ‘odd’ gears plus reverse, the other to operate the ‘even’ gears. With this clutch management system, the interruptions in

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power that are exhibited with some transmissions no longer occur thanks to an intelligent hydraulic and electronic (mechatronic) control system.

The system enables the next-higher gear ratio to remain engaged but on standby until it is actually selected. In other words, if the car is being driven in third gear, fourth is selected but not yet activated. As soon as the ideal shift point is reached, the clutch on the third-gear side opens, while the clutch for fourth gear engages under accurate electronic supervision. Since the opening and closing actions of the two clutches overlap, a smooth gearshift results and the entire shift process can be completed in less than four-hundredths of a second.

The seven-speed unit seen here in the Polo uses a pair of dry clutches (as opposed to the wet ones in the six-speed version) to improve fuel efficiency and performance. The pair of dry, organic bonded friction linings do not require cooling, making the drivetrain more efficient through the extra gear ratio and the fact that less power is required for the gear selection and clutch servo system. Measuring only 369 mm in length and weighing only 79 kg including the dual-mass flywheel the gearbox is remarkably compact.

In adopting seven-speeds, Volkswagen engineers were able to lower first gear to improve acceleration from a standstill. By contrast seventh gear has been raised to act as an overdrive function making it ideal for motorway driving with the additional effect of further improving economy and comfort levels.

The volume of oil contained within the gearbox has also been reduced by 75 per cent. The lubrication circuits are divided into two to maintain the purity of the oil. As with a conventional manual gearbox, one of the circuits is used for cooling and lubrication of the gear train, the second feeds oil to the gear-change actuators. Since the clutches do not require cooling the quantity of oil has been reduced from seven litres in the six-speed to only 1.7-litres in the seven-speed DSG system.

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SERVICING

Volkswagen offers customers a choice of servicing regime for their Polo. They can choose Fixed or Flexible Service, and the appropriate selection is entirely dependent on how the car is likely to be driven and its general use.

Fixed Service is recommended for vehicles that will cover less than 10,000 miles in 12 months and if the vehicle is likely to be used for: • Predominantly city centre driving, short journeys with frequent cold starts • Activities regularly producing high engine loading, for example frequent hill climbs, driving with vehicle fully loaded and towing • Driving with high rpm, hard acceleration and heavy braking

In this case, the vehicle will be serviced at regular intervals, at every 10,000 miles or every 12 months.

Flexible Service is recommended for vehicles with a daily mileage of more than 25 miles, where the vehicle is driven regularly and on mainly longer distance journeys. The vehicle should be mainly driven at a constant speed with minimum vehicle and engine loading, minimal towing and driven in an economical manner. In this case, the on-board computer informs the driver via a dashboard display, when the vehicle needs a service. A range of engine sensors electronically monitors the vehicle’s oil temperature, oil pressure, oil level and brake pad wear to establish when a service is needed.

With the Flexible system, the vehicle can cover between 10,000 and a maximum of 20,000 miles or 24 months (whichever is sooner) between oil changes. An inspection service is typically due after two years of ownership or at 20,000 miles and thereafter every year or 20,000 miles.

Customers can choose between servicing regimes at PDI (pre-delivery inspection) and though it is possible to change from one to another during the vehicle’s life, it can only be done when a full inspection service is due.

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RUNNING GEAR

The Polo’s running gear is based on the basic layout of a strut-type front axle and twist beam rear suspension. Volkswagen’s electronic stability control (ESC) is standard, while numerous other electronic modules are networked to it, e.g. anti-lock braking system (ABS), hill start assistant, anti- slip regulation (ASR), engine drag torque regulation (MSR), electronic differential locks (EDS) and torque vectoring (XDS electronic differential lock). Also standard is the tyre pressure monitoring indicator for checking the pressure of the tyres.

Electro-mechanical power steering The Polo benefits from a newly-developed electro-mechanical steering system which is integrated directly into the steering column. Driven by an electric motor, it gives the Polo more precise and agile steering responses than the previous system.

Electronic Stability Control – ESC Essentially, ESC is a sophisticated system that automatically senses any tendency for the car to slide. Should this situation occur, ESC reacts by applying the brakes to one, two, three or all four wheels and adjusts the engine’s power. In this way, it is possible that a skid is corrected even before the driver is aware that one has started.

This can be useful if a tendency to understeer or oversteer develops in a bend. In such circumstances ESC can help prevent the car skidding or spinning off the road and is particularly helpful in wet or icy conditions.

Hydraulic Brake Assist – HBA Working in conjunction with the other elements of the braking system, this latest form of HBA recognises from the speed at which the brake pedal is depressed whether it is a ‘normal’ braking situation or an emergency stop. In the event of an emergency stop, HBA automatically increases braking pressure, activating ABS and ensuring the level of braking meets the needs of the conditions. The application of brake assist makes it possible even for unskilled drivers to reduce braking distances by around 25 per cent.

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EQUIPMENT AND TRIM

The Polo is available in six ‘standard’ trim levels: S and S A/C, Match, beats, SEL, BlueGT and GTI. Also available are the Polo BlueMotion and GTI. Highlights of each trim level are shown below; for full price and specification details, please see the price list.

S 1.0-litre 60 PS

The entry-level Polo is available with just one engine. Also offered is an S A/C model which adds manual air conditioning:

• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist) • ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with EDL (Electronic Differential Lock) and ASR traction control • Automatic Post-Collision Braking System • Hill Hold function • three rear head restraints and three-point seat belts • driver’s and front passenger’s airbags • side head/thorax airbag system, for front passengers • driver’s and front passenger’s whiplash-optimised head restraints • electronic engine immobiliser • high level third brake light • Isofix child seat preparation (for two rear child seats) • warning buzzer and light for front seat belts if unfastened • central locking • driver’s seat with height adjustment • three-spoke steering wheel, height and reach adjustable • white instrument lighting • front electric windows • 12V socket in centre console • two bag hooks in luggage compartment • storage compartments in front and rear doors (5dr only) • folding rear seat backrest • Composition Colour infotainment system with 5-inch colour touchscreen, AUX-in socket for connection to an external multimedia source, DAB digital radio receiver, dash-mounted single CD player, SD card reader, music playback facility, six speakers, USB connectivity, 4 x 20 watt output, Bluetooth telephone connection for compatible phones • body-coloured bumpers and side sills • 5J x 14 steel wheels with 175/70 R14 tyres • full size steel spare wheel

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Match 1.0-litre 60 PS Match 1.0-litre 75 PS Match 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS Match 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS

In addition to S A/C, Match, the best-selling trim, adds: • Driver Alert system • infotainment upgrade to Composition Media system with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen, MDI interface with iPod connectivity via USB port, title and cover art display and glovebox-mounted single CD player • cruise control (not GTI) • matt chrome inserts on air vent and gear lever surrounds, handbrake button and door handles • electrically heated and adjustable door mirrors • front seat back storage pockets • remote central locking • rear tinted glass from B-pillar back (65 per cent tinted) • split folding rear seat backrest 60:40 with variable load floor in bootspace • easy-entry sliding seats for access to rear seats (three-door only) • leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip • multifunction display computer • remote central locking and alarm with interior protection • illuminated vanity mirrors • passenger seat height adjustment • body-coloured door handles and door mirrors with integrated indicators • 6J x 15 ‘Stratford’ alloy wheels with 185/60 R15 tyres and anti-theft wheel bolts

Match Edition 1.0-litre 60 PS Match Edition 1.0-litre 75 PS Match Edition 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS Match Edition 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS

Over Match models, Match Edition gains: • Car-Net App-Connect • automatic coming/leaving home lighting • dusk sensor for automatic lights • electric folding door mirrors • rain sensor and automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror (Match Edition only)

beats 1.0-litre 60 PS beats 1.0-litre 75 PS beats 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS beats 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS

Over Match, beats gains • 300 watt Beats Audio sound system with eight channel amplifier • ‘beats’ badging on B pillar • ‘beats’ decals on side skirts • darkened rear light clusters • ‘High Gloss Black’ radiator grille

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• unique ‘beats’ door sill protectors • rear tinted glass (65 per cent) from B-pillar back • ‘Flash Red’ or ‘Black’ door mirrors with integrated indicators and radiator grille • LED rear numberplate lights • ‘Isaac Silver’ interior trim • front sports seats with ‘beats’ clot, ‘beats’ logo and height adjustment • 7J x 16 ‘Knight’ alloys with 215/45 R16 tyres and anti-theft bolts

SEL 1.0-litre TSI 110 PS SEL 1.4-litre TDI 90 PS

Over Match, SEL adds the following equipment highlights: • LED headlights including LED daytime running lights • automatic headlight range adjustment • headlight washers and low washer fluid warning light • front centre armrest with storage compartment • 7J x 16 ‘Rivazza’ alloy wheels with 215/45 R16 tyres and anti-theft bolts

R-Line 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS R-Line 1.0-litre TSI 110 PS R-Line 1.4-litre TDI 90 PS

Over SEL, R-Line adds the following equipment highlights: • unique ‘R-Line’ styling pack, with revised front and rear bumpers, radiator grille and side skirts • unique ‘R-Line’ badging • 16-inch ‘Salvador’ alloy wheels with 215/45 R16 tyres • aluminium-look pedals • black rooflining, internal grab handles and sun visors • carpet mats in front and rear • leather trimmed three-spoke steering wheel with aluminium inserts and ‘R-Line’ logo • front sports seats with ‘Race’ centre section and ‘San Remo’ microfibre side bolsters with ‘R-Line’ logo embroidered on front seat head restraints • unique ‘R-Line’ door sill protectors

BlueGT 1.4-litre TSI ACT 150 PS

With some unique trim features, BlueGT gains the following highlights over the Polo S: • BlueGT styling pack – uniquely shaped front and rear bumpers, radiator grille and side skirts, plus badging • Composition Media system with 6.5-inch colour touchscreen • darkened rear light clusters • front fog lights with static cornering function • ‘Gloss Black’ door mirrors with integrated indicators • radiator grille with chrome trim, twin exhaust tailpipes • front sports seats with height adjustment • black rooflining • leather trimmed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake • ‘Matt Chrome’ interior trim

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• front sports seats with ‘BlueSpeed’ cloth seat centre and alcantara side bolsters, driver’s and front passenger’s under seat drawer, split fold rear seat backrest 60:40 • paddle shift on steering wheel (DSG) • cruise control • Driver Alert system • XDS differential lock for improved traction and handling • multifunction computer, includes cylinder cut-off display (for Active Cylinder Management improved fuel consumption) • XDS electronic differential lock for improved traction and handling • multifunction computer with cylinder cut-off display (ACT Active Cylinder Management) for improved fuel consumption • sports suspension, lowered by approx. 15 mm • 7J x 17 ‘Montani’ alloy wheels with 215/40 R17 low rolling resistance tyres

BlueMotion

Based on the S trim, the BlueMotion model adds a styling pack which includes uniquely shaped front and rear bumpers, radiator grille, side skirts and rear roof spoiler, body coloured door handles, body coloured door mirrors with integrated indicators, front fog lights and static cornering function and unique BlueMotion badging.

Additional kit over that on the S trim includes 15-inch ‘Buenos Aires’ alloys with low rolling resistance tyres, aero body kit, multifunction leather steering wheel, alarm with remote central locking, air conditioning, a front centre armrest, Composition Media and infotainment system, cruise control and Volkswagen’s Driver Alert System. This version of the Polo comes with a Think Blue, Trainer, which gives hint and tips on how to drive in a more economical fashion by analysing journey patterns.

The car is powered by a 1.0-litre TSI with 95 PS and a CO₂ figure of 98 g/km.

GTI

The design of Polo GTI follows that of its ‘big brother’ the Golf GTI. As such, the range-topping supermini sports new bumpers, GTI insignia, distinctive 17-inch ‘Parabolica’ alloy wheels and red radiator grille strips, plus honeycomb grille and standard sports suspension (lowered by 10 mm at the front and 15 mm at the back).

LED lights are standard, while at the rear a GTI roof spoiler, taillight clusters in Dark Red, the black grained diffuser and chrome dual exhaust pipes continue the sporty theme. Inside, a leather sports steering wheel with logo and red stitching harks back to the Golf GTI, as do the gear and handbrake levers and floor mats with red beading. Check design ‘Clark’ cloth seats with black bolsters have been a GTI emblem since the first GTI in 1976.

The Polo GTI – like the Golf GTI – has XDS as standard. XDS compensates for the understeer which is typical of front-wheel drive cars, meaning driving characteristics are more precise and neutral. XDS works in all unbraked driving states and improving the vehicle’s agility.

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SAFETY

The Polo’s designers set themselves the goal of making the previous generation the safest Polo yet as well as aiming to attain five stars in the new, more stringent and more comprehensive Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) tests, a goal which they achieved. The new car’s higher structural rigidity contributes to this goal. In the footwell area alone, intrusion – related to the car body’s resistance to deformation in a frontal crash – was lowered by 50 per cent. In the case of a side impact, the intrusion value was reduced by 20 per cent.

Frontal crash In a frontal crash – such as an offset crash between two vehicles (with half vehicle overlap of both vehicles) that commonly occurs – the very rigid occupant cell creates a survival space for the driver and passenger. At the front of the Polo, an extremely rigid bumper cross-member was specially designed for an offset crash, in that it takes the impact energy and distributes it to the side of the vehicle not directly affected by the impact. As a result, both side frame members absorb the energy together.

The side frames were optimised to achieve a deceleration curve in a frontal crash that significantly reduces on occupant loads. What’s more, the lower cross-member in the footwell area is designed as a form strengthened component, so it is not only is it lighter (by half) but also extremely strong, meaning footwell intrusion is reduced by up to 50 per cent compared to the previous model. In turn, this reduces biomechanical loads to the feet and lower legs enormously. The pedals in the Polo also offer passive protection; ideally they prevent injuries in a crash by freeing up space for the feet and lower legs.

The side body section, designed as a type of ring structure – together with the door framed within it – provides for additional form stability, even in frontal accidents with very little overlap. In what are known as load paths, extremely strong, partially form-strengthened sheet metal reinforcements are used here too – in the A-pillar, the similarly braced door rail extending to the B- pillar, the roof frame and side sills.

Side impact The Polo development team assigned special priority to effective side impact protection, since the crush zone in the area of the doors is relatively small. When the Polo collides with an object on its side, the energy is channelled via the special form-strengthened B-pillar and profiled impact beams arranged diagonally in the door. Compared to the previous model, the seat cross-member and side sills were significantly reinforced. In this way, both the speed of the intruding object, or colliding vehicle in the crash as well as the intrusion itself, are reduced by 20 per cent in a side impact.

One of the most serious side impact accidents is when a vehicle collides with a tree from the side, simulated in the so-called ‘pole test’. The Polo’s body offers an extremely high level of safety in this type of crash, thanks to a hot-formed and therefore very stable roof frame and rigid side sills. Compared to the previous model, intrusion here was also considerably reduced – by 15 per cent.

Rear impact The rear area of the new Polo was reinforced by especially strong side frames. The fuel system is also given a protective enclosure. In tandem with the very stable occupant cell described, the Polo fulfils the highest requirements in a crash involving collision to the rear body section as well.

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Restraint systems The Polo has a highly effective network of airbags as standard equipment, including combined head and thorax airbags (integrated in the front seatbacks), belt tensioners and seatbelt limiters plus a seatbelt warning indicator, head restraints that counteract whiplash (both front restraints), three rear head restraints and Isofix preparation for two rear child seats. On the active side, the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) completes the safety specification.

Pedestrian safety As well as protecting its occupants, the Polo was also designed to be safe for other road users and in particular pedestrians. Requirements relating to pedestrian safety were integrated early in the design phase of development work. In the bonnet area, interior sheet metal was designed to provide maximum deformation space to prevent punching through onto the hard area of the engine block. The hinges of the bonnet were also optimised for pedestrian safety. In addition, the bumpers were integrated into this concept to guarantee the best possible protection of pedestrians.

Line-up with insurance groups Thanks to its extensive security and safety features, the Polo secured the following insurance group ratings from the ABI (Association of British Insurers). Ratings are out of 50; ‘E’ denotes that the car exceeded the Thatcham (ABI) requirements:

S and S A/C S 1.0-litre 60 PS 6E S A/C 1.0-litre 60 PS 7E Match and Match Edition 1.0-litre 60 PS 7E 1.0-litre 75 PS 9E 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS 15E 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS 13E beats 1.0-litre 60 PS 8E 1.0-litre TSI 75 PS 9E 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS 15E 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS 14E SEL 1.0-litre TSI 110 PS 18E 1.4-litre TDI 90 PS 15E R-Line 1.0-litre TSI 110 PS 18E 1.2-litre TSI 90 PS 15E 1.4-litre TDI 75 PS 16E BlueMotion 1.0-litre TSI 95 PS 16E BlueGT 1.4-litre TSI ACT 150 PS 23E GTI 1.8-litre TSI 192 PS 29E

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WARRANTIES

The Polo has a three year (first and second year manufacturer operated, third year retailer operated) / 60,000 mile mechanical warranty. In addition, it comes with a 12-year body protection guarantee, three year paint warranty and a year’s membership of Volkswagen Roadside Assistance which includes European breakdown cover. The latter can be extended at minimal cost to the customer.

HISTORY

42 YEARS, OVER 14 MILLION SALES WORLDWIDE: FIVE GENERATIONS OF THE POLO

1975 POLO Mk I LAUNCHED IN THE UK Launched with one 900 cc, 40 PS engine available Length: 3,505 mm Width: 1,562 mm Height: 1,334 mm Wheelbase: 2,337 mm

1976 Larger engine of 1.1-litres introduced to the range, with a power output of 50 PS

1979 500,000th Polo produced

1981 POLO Mk II LAUNCHED 1,043 cc 40 PS, 1.1-litre 50 PS and same capacity Formel E engines. Formel E designed to run on four rather than two star petrol Length: 3,655 mm (+ 650 mm) Width: 1,580 mm (+ 18 mm) Height: 1,355 mm (+ 21 mm) Wheelbase: 2,335 mm (- 2 mm)

1982 First Polo Coupé introduced with 1,093 cc 50 PS engine

1983 1,000,000th Polo produced

1986 2,000,000th Polo produced

1990 Comprehensive facelift Length: 3,765 mm (+ 110 mm) Width: 1,570 mm (- 10 mm) Height: 1,350 mm (- 5 mm) Wheelbase: 2,335 mm (+ 0 mm) Polo becomes first small car to be fitted with catalyst as standard to meet emissions legislation

1991 3,000,000th Polo produced Polo G40 with 1.3-litre 112 PS engine launched

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1995 POLO Mk III LAUNCHED Launch engines include 1.0-litre 45 PS, 1.3-litre 55 PS, 1.6-litre 75 PS petrols and a 1.9-litre 64 PS diesel First time for: diesel engine, five-door bodystyle, automatic transmission and a standard driver’s airbag on all but the entry-level E model Length: 3,715 mm (- 50 mm) Width: 1,655 mm (+ 85 mm) Height: 1,420 mm (+ 70 mm) Wheelbase: 2,400 mm (+ 65 mm) 4,000,000th Polo produced

1996 Polo Saloon launched – replacing Polo Classic Polo Harlequin introduced with 1.4-litre 60 PS engine

1997 Polo Estate launched 5,000,000th Polo produced

1998 6,000,000th Polo produced

2000 UK launch of facelifted model. Engine highlights include 1.4-litre TDI PD diesel and, for the first time, a GTI. This featured a 1.6-litre 125 PS engine and modifications in appearance At 25th anniversary 6,480,000 Polos had been built

2001 7,000,000th Polo produced New Saloon and Estate launched

2002 POLO Mk IV LAUNCHED For the first time in a model in the Polo class, all derivatives feature ABS and twin front airbags as standard Length: 3,897 mm (+ 182 mm) Width: 1,650 mm (- 5 mm) Height: 1,465 mm (+ 45 mm) Wheelbase: 2,460 mm (+ 60 mm)

2003 8,000,000th Polo produced 1.4-litre 85 PS FSI direct injection petrol model launched. Polo becomes first Volkswagen in the UK to feature this technology Twist model launched

2004 Polo Dune launched – a five-door variant featuring raised suspension and enhanced bodywork. Available with a 1.2-litre 65 PS three-cylinder petrol; a 1.4-litre 75 PS four- cylinder petrol; and a 1.4-litre 75 PS TDI three-cylinder diesel

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2005 9,000,000th Polo produced International debut of the revised Polo at the Leipzig Show in April Revised Polo on sale in the UK from June 2005 Length: 3,916 mm (+ 19mm) Width: 1,650 mm (+ 0 mm) Height: 1,467 mm (+ 2 mm) Wheelbase: 2,460 mm (+ 0 mm)

2006 Most powerful production Polo ever is launched – GTI is fitted with 1.8-litre Turbo 150 PS engine Revised Polo Dune launched with 1.4-litre 75 PS petrol and 1.4-litre TDI 70 PS diesel engines

2007 10,000,000th Polo produced BlueMotion technology debuts in the UK on the Polo. Model launched with a 1.4-litre TDI 80 PS engine which returns 74.3 mpg and emits just 99 g/km of CO₂

2009 POLO Mk V LAUNCHED International debut of the Polo Mk V at Geneva Motor Show Length: 3,970 mm (+ 54 mm), Width: 1,682 mm (+ 32 mm) Height: 1,462 mm (- 5 mm) 7 August – released for ordering 16 October – first customer deliveries November – Polo named European Car of the Year 2010 December – three-door model arrives

2010 April – Polo named 2010 World Car of the Year May – Polo BlueMotion first customer deliveries July – 180 PS GTI model on sale

2011 July – Match trim replaces SE November – Volkswagen Motorsport starts Polo WRC testing programme

2012 April – Polo R-Line introduced May – Bluetooth standard across the Polo range (except S) May – DAB becomes standard across the range December – Polo BlueGT with Active Cylinder Technology on sale

2013 January – Polo R WRC makes FIA World Rally Championship debut at Monte Carlo Rally April – Match Edition replaces Match, equipment enhancements across the range and R-Line introduced September – new Polo shown at Frankfurt Motor Show November – Polo R WRC wins FIA World Rally Championship (drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles) December – first petrol BlueMotion model launched – the Polo BlueMotion

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2014 March – prices announced for facelifted Polo. Includes new colours, alloy wheel designs and revised bumpers plus LED headlights April – retailers take UK orders July – first deliveries to UK customers November – Polo R WRC wins FIA World Rally Championship (drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles) and wins every event except Rallye Deutschland December – Polo GTI and BlueMotion orders open

2015 March – first deliveries of GTI and BlueMotion models November – Polo R WRC wins third consecutive FIA World Rally Championships (drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles) and wins every event except Rally Argentina

2016 May – Polo beats opens for order July – Polo wins Best Supermini category at Auto Express Awards November – Polo R WRC wins 43rd FIA World Rally (Rally Australia) and fourth consecutive FIA World Rally Championships (drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles). Takes 12 wins out of 14 events December – Polo Match Edition launched

ends JB/02-2017

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