During the fourth quarter of last year, Volkswagen SA released their latest generation Polo. A model that has been a firm favourite with South Africans over the years and saw it dominate sales in its segment. There is no denying why the model does so well, VW have created the perfect formula for a compact hatch that offers great features, decent engines, comfort, space and not forgetting that excellent price point. This new model still continues with those key values and adds a bit more, hence its bound to be a resounding success with the consumers. VWSA have also changed the model line up a bit with them offering the new Polo in four trims, being the Standard Polo, Polo Life, Polo R- Line and the range topping Polo GTI. I had the opportunity to spend a week with the Polo Life and here are my thoughts on the car.
DESIGN
While at first glance the overall design of the new Polo looks pretty similar to the previous generation but on closer inspection you will notice quite a few design changes apart form the lights. The car I had was in the new launch colour of "Vibrant Violet Metallic" and it was pretty vibrant and surprisingly very appealing to many. The car has grown in size with it being longer, wider and slightly higher than its predecessor but yes, the key design changes are with the lights, up in the front the LED headlamps are more angular and wider than the older model with lovely details that tie into the solid LED bar that runs along the grille just like the Golf 8. The light bar stops at the VW badge in front and gives off a very impressive look at night. The bottom of the front has been revised to more of the Golf 8 style cues as well with the wider radiator grille and smaller more angular side pods. Side profile of the new Polo looks pretty similar to the older generation and as you head to the back, the revised rear lights with the extension of them that are on the tailgate give the car a more mature look to it. The interior has been completely redone as well with, again styling cues coming from the Golf 8 and T-Cross.
PERFORMANCE
The VW Polo Life comes with one engine, the 1.0 TSI but with two transmission options, the 5-speed manual or the 7-speed DSG. I had with me the manual derivative and I quite enjoyed it. While the trend focus may shift to automatics these days and when it comes to automatics, the VW DSG is up there with the best but every now and then you don't mind the old "stick shift". The 5-speed manual has less power output from the 1.0L TSI engine though with it producing only 70kW, a whole 15kW less that the DSG. Having a manual did assist with this lack of power as you could easily down change when required. The eco assistant advising you when to change gears helps you obtain a healthy fuel economy but the motor itself does so well on using minimal fuel in any case. Whether on the highway for long distances or just urban driving the Polo seemed well equipped to propel me around on my journeys with it.
COMFORT
Like I said, the Polo has grown a bit and its evident in the interior with their being ample space to comfortably seat four grown adults. The new design is very welcoming with everything being new, from the steering wheel to the dash. The large touch-screen infotainment screen greets you as you enter the car with it tilted to face the driver. There are a number of features to this including profiles for multiple moods or drivers. The instrument cluster is fully digital as well displaying all kinds of driver related info as well as media. I love the various modes and views you can choose from, you can opt for the traditional analog dial setup or go for something new with digital readings that make more room for other information. The Polo comes with built-in mobile apps that offer wireless integration, there is the option of USB wired charging with two USB C ports located just below the analog AC controls. The car came with optional extras such as Park Assist, Park Distance Control and A large panoramic sunroof. The cabin is laid out with good quality materials and textures which keep the car vibrant and appealing to the youth.
VERDICT
You can't really go wrong with the Polo, while it has a legacy of being an affordable hatch aimed at students and emerging professionals, it really is growing up to tap into other markets of buyers as well. The inclusion of technology and robust materials could see it appealing to others in the buying spectrum. Given the recent and future fuel increases, this 1.0L TSI engine will become extremely popular with those that do not wish to frequent the pumps. Apart from looking nice and performing well, the car is such a pleasure to drive and I feel that is one thing many brands lack with of recent, with them concentrating on so many other things to keep their models up to date, sometimes they dont put in much effort into the drivability of their cars and that is one thing VW do brilliantly. Another great reason to purchase this car is that its produced locally so there's nothing wrong in showing some patriotisms.
SPECIFICATIONS
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