After
ten million global sales and 34 years production, the latest Volkswagen Polo is
probably now more relevant than ever.
Not
only are car buyers downsizing but they still expect high levels of refinement
and the ability to choose sophisticated specifications while wanting strong
residuals.
In
common with many manufacturers as they introduce new versions, VW has raised
the game with the latest fifth generation Polo series, so it is not only more
refined than ever with the latest powertrains and equipment available, but it
has also grown in size so some drivers will not be physically downsizing but
merely putting on a more modern suite. Nominal boot space is more at 280 litres
but to fit in more legroom the maximum capacity has gone down slightly to 967
litres.
There
is a choice of 59 or 69bhp three-cylinder 1.2 petrol and 84bhp four-cylinder 1.4
petrol or 74 and 89bhp four-cylinder 1.6 diesels, fitted with standard
five-speed manual and six or seven-speed DSG automatic on top versions, available
in S, SE, SEL and Moda trim levels and priced between £10,035 to £14,910.
Built
in South Africa and styled along the familiar lines of the latest Golf and
Scirocco models with a wide front air dam and slender grille, the new Polo is
markedly different to the previous generation. A completely new interior
features back lit instruments and aluminium highlights to the trim.
Previewed
at the Geneva Motor Show in March, UK sales begin on 16 October with the
five-door initially and the three door joining the range in December. A new 1.2-litre 105 PS turbocharged TSI unit will be
offered from early in 2010 and a Bluemotion derivative a little later. Polo BlueMotion will have an all-new 1.2-litre
three-cylinder common rail diesel engine developing 74bhp, automatic Start-Stop
and regenerative braking, a gearbox with revised ratios, optimised
aerodynamics, suspension lowered by 15 mm and low rolling resistance tyres.
Standard equipment includes four
airbags, ABS and, for the first time Electronic Stabilisation Programme is
standard on every Polo.
Optional equipment traditionally associated with
cars in higher classes is also offered on the Polo. Touchscreen satellite navigation, a DAB
digital radio and climate control are available as options.
The longer and wider new Polo has been cleverly
designed and engineered so it's actually lighter than the previous series and
this helps economy. Offering a specific version with air conditioning, which
traditionally hits economy as well, also improves the mpg figures for most of
the series.
Volkswagen UK expects sales of around 7,000 Polo
units this year, increasing to around 37,000 in 2010, with fleet sales
accounting for 45pc. Insurance groups
are 2E to 4E.
I briefly tested the new entry level model, the
Polo S 1.2 59bhp 5sp, and found it adequately powerful on level ground but it
could struggle up some hills and was short of power for overtaking in certain
situations.
That said, the three-cylinder engine was composed and willing with
low noise level, the gearchange light and precise while the brakes and steering
inspired confidence with their minimal effort but good responses. The ride
quality was good, the seats particularly comfortable, adjusted well and visibility was clear.
Parking sensors are standard on all but the basic model but it's easy to place
with good sightlines.
The 84bhp 1.4 was an easier drive and coped better
with hills and overtaking and was even more responsive than its stablemate while
the SEL's new seven-speed automatic DSG transmission was a perfect companion to
the engine. There is a noticeable difference between normal and sport modes in
the box but the changes in both modes are silky smooth.
You can select a manual mode as well if wanted for
specific conditions and the lever-only selection has a small movement to instantly
effect changes.
It really is an excellent powertrain matched with
effortless steering and reassuring brakes but I thought the ride was firmer
than in the 1.2 stablemate and not always as comfortable.
I liked the extra legroom inside and could happily
live with the smaller than previous total carrying capacity.
VERDICT
For many it answers the question of whether they
need a Golf or if the Polo is good enough.
Not only does the new Polo seriously
challenge its city car rivals, but it also measures up very well against larger
cars, including the Golf.
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