Everything Volkswagen Polo Issue 010 // June 2014
Refreshed and revised New Polo first drives
NEWPOLO SS the e O R g of th C stin
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1.0-litre MPI 59bhp
Te rsion lo e o st v dP late tyle-le any s Germ in
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1.2-litre TSI 89bhp
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1.4-litre TDI 89bhp
JUNE 2014 | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE 02
Welcome. New Polo first drives
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t’s easy to forget that the fifth-generation Volkswagen Polo has been on sale for five years. Launched at the Geneva motor show in March 2009, the Polo 6R presented a more dynamic look, and even more big-car comforts than before. Time rarely stand still in the motor industry, though, and now, exactly five years later, there’s a new Polo. The official unveiling of the new car was at the end of January in Volkswagen’s Autostadt complex in Wolfsburg. It’s only now, however, that the first examples of the refreshed model are being driven. The German carmaker presented the New Polo at Munich airport, before letting journalists drive the car to Tegernsee, a town on the shores of Tegernsee lake in the Miesbach district of Bavaria. Beautiful and picturesque, with an alpine landscape 2451ft above sea level, several routes were available to test the foundations of the New Polo range.
Contents First drive 1.0 MPI, 59bhp 4 First drive 1.2 TSI, 89bhp
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First drive CrossPolo TSI
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First drive 1.4 TDI, 89bhp 10 Technical specifications
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WORDS // RICH GOODING PICTURES // RICH GOODING/ VOLKSWAGEN UK
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We’ve covered the basics before, but the New Polo is largely concerned with addressing the connectivity issues of the outgoing car and adding a whole raft of Golf-derived safety systems. There’s also a gentle refresh to both the exterior and interior, with details changes marking the new model from the old. The driving impressions included here are based on engine and basic car make-up only and aren’t entirely indicative of UK-specification variants. PAGE 03 | POLODRIVER.COM | JUNE 2014
1.0-litre MPI, 59bhp
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he new entry-level model Polo loses 199cc compared with the outgoing car. Borrowing the now-familiar three-cylinder engine from the Up city car, the 1.0-litre Polo resurrects an engine/model combination not seen since the Polo 1.0 E of 1999‑2001. The 999cc multipoint injection unit develops 59bhp, its 70lb ft (95Nm) of torque arriving between 3000-4300rpm. At 1050kg, the lowest-powered 1.0 Polo has an extra 121kg over the smaller Up to carry around, but, on our admittedly limited test route, the engine doesn’t appear to struggle too much. Yes, the five-speed gearbox needs to be stirred regularly, but that’s just part of the fun. The three-cylinder unit emits the same pleasing thrum as in the Up, and seems to give the Polo character, a side order of which the outgoing model was lacking in certain areas. It’s refined at low revs around urban areas, though, and cruises happily at the legal limit. Yes, the 0-62mph dash takes 15.5 seconds (1.1 seconds longer than the 59bhp Up), but this car isn’t about performance. The base model Polo is about accessibility, and here it scores. Standard equipment of UK-bound S models includes a 5” colour touchscreen infotainment system (with CD/USB and DAB), Bluetooth connectivity, central locking, and a high-tech Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. All Polos coming to the UK are BlueMotion Technology models, so all cars feature battery regeneration (recuperation – energy recovery during braking) as well as a Start/Stop function. The UK entry-level model three-door Polo S costs £11,100, while an S A/C model starts at £11,820. The 1.0-litre engine is available in S, S A/C, SE and SE Design models, with a 74bhp version from SE models and above. In a happy coincidence, Volkswagen UK expects the 1.0-litre 59bhp SE to be the best-selling variant of the New Polo line-up. Did you know? The New Polo has the largest number of safety assistance systems in its class JUNE 2014 | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE 04
The three-cylinder engine emits the same pleasing thrum as in the Up and seems to give the New Polo character. Yes, the gearbox needs to be stirred regularly to make good progress, but that’s just part of the fun
New 1.0-litre engine available with 59 or 74bhp
Colour touchscreen features in all UK New Polos
| POLODRIVER.COM | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE | PAGE JANUARY JUNE 20142013 06 06
1.2-litre TSI, 89bhp
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here was a turbocharged 1.2-litre TSI engine developing 103bhp in the outgoing Polo range, this is replaced by units developing both 89 and 108bhp. While the previous engine was fitted to the SEL and R-Line models, the new pair will be available in SE, SE Design (89bhp) and SEL (108bhp) models. The 89bhp unit is allied to either a five-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG, while the higher-output 108bhp engine comes with a six-speed manual gearbox along with the DSG option. Also fitted to the high-riding CrossPolo in Europe, we tried the 89bhp version in a Polo ‘Fresh’. A special model on sale for around 12 months, the Polo Fresh will mirror the SE Design specification in the UK.
Inside, as with the Polo Fresh, SE Design models feature aluminium‑look pedals, ‘Ceramique’-edged carpet mats, ‘Ceramique’ door panel with chrome decorative insert, ‘Ceramique’ stitching on a leather trimmed three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip, ‘Dark Rhodium’ centre console surround, ‘Dark Rhodium’ lower dash, front footwell illumination, front sports seats with height adjustment and ‘Pyramid’ upholstery in Palladium Grey or ‘Ceramique’.
Driving the car back from the Tegernsee launch venue to Munich airport, we’d say the 1.2 TSI is the star of the new engine range. Torquey, tractable, and a little rorty when revved under hard acceleration, the 89bhp TSI is very smooth and suits the New Polo well. Torque of 118lb ft (160Nm) arrives between 1400-4000rpm, while the 0-62mph time is 10.8 seconds. On the largely smooth road surface of the autobahn back to Munich, the New Polo TSI felt tremendously solid and unwaverable. A firm yet compliant ride filters out most road irregularities, while it keeps the much-admired levels of refinement the outgoing car is known for. SE Design models start at £14,680 for the three-door and 7J x 16” ‘Portago’ alloy wheels with an anthracite finish, darkened rear light clusters, front fog lights, darkened rear window glass, ‘Gloss Black’ door mirrors with integrated indicators, ‘Gloss Black’ radiator grille and LED rear number plate lights all help to distinguish it from its SE sibling. Specify the retina-popping ‘Cornflower Blue’ paint and this model really does look the part. Did you know? The New Polo has seven brand new wheel designs with two further options to follow with yet-unreleased BlueMotion and GTI models PAGE 07 | POLODRIVER.COM | JUNE 2014
CrossPolo 1.2 TSI
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he CrossPolo became part of the Polo range in 2004. Known in the UK as the Polo Dune, it was last imported in 2008. A fifth-generation Polo 6R-based CrossPolo was launched in 2010, and is now exported to such markets as China, India and South Africa. Still a strong part of the European Polo line-up, we tried the 1.2 TSI 89bhp version around the alpine landscape of Tegernsee. Designed to look like a mini-SUV, the CrossPolo could be described as the ‘designer’ Polo, due to its unique body styling, alloy wheels and interior trim, all designed to evoke an ‘active lifestyle’. The old model drove a little like it was on stilts. The new one doesn’t. Feeling like a much more integrated part of the car, the suspension gives a fair impression of not being raised at all. Riding better than the Polo Dune (9N/9N3 model) even on its low-profile tyres – don’t be fooled by the appearance, the CrossPolo is still front-wheel drive only – it feels much closer to the tarmac than before, meaning changes of direction can be done with more confidence. As with the 1.2 TSI standard Polo hatchback, the engine suits the car well, being nippy and refined, yet with a ‘sporty’ edge when pushed.
Three engines are available in Germany initially: 1.2 TSI in 89 and 108bhp flavours, as well as a 1.4 TDI developing 88bhp. All have BlueMotion Technology. The subtle exterior changes which mark out the New Polo from old are even more subtle when applied to the CrossPolo. The new 17” ‘Canyon’ alloy wheels visually differentiate the new car from the old one, but otherwise, changes to the front and rear lights are the only other giveaways. The new ‘Honey Orange’ paintwork is a must-have. The interior has undergone similar subtle evolutionary amendments. Unique ‘Link’ upholstery marks out the CrossPolo from its siblings, while the centre console and new infotainment surround now gets a silver finish. Overall, the CrossPolo is a well thought-out package. The current thinking for the UK market is that it could be sold if UK customers say so. Otherwise, it’s continent-bound only. We would suggest Volkswagen UK is lobbied hard.
Did you know? The New Polo has newly-developed electro-mechnical power steering and optional switchable-damper ‘Sport Select’ suspension JUNE 2014 | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE 08
New CrossPolo features sports and ‘lifestyle’ accents
PAGE 09 | POLODRIVER.COM | JUNE 2014
| POLODRIVER.COM | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE | PAGE JANUARY JUNE 20142013 10 06
New Polo handles with same confidence as before
1.4-litre TDI, 89bhp
Technology: MirrorLink and associated apps
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he sole diesel we tested in Tegernsee was the 1.4-litre 89bhp TDI. The highest-output diesel engine available at launch, the three-cylinder TDI replaces the 89bhp 1.6 four‑cylinder engine from the outgoing car. A lower-output 74bhp version of the same engine is also available, and replaces a 1.6 TDI with the same power. With 1422cc, the newly-developed engine develops 170lb ft (230Nm) of torque from 1500-2500rpm. With the highest torque of any engine from the New Polo range at launch, the TDI feels big-lunged. It’s a gutsy accelerator, with 62mph coming up in 10.9 seconds from rest. It sounds quite gruff on start-up, but the engine soon quietens once on the move. It feels slightly heavier in the nose due to the diesel unit, but still retains the planted, safe and secure feel of the other New Polo models. In the UK, the 89bhp TDI is available in SE Design and SEL trim. The lower-powered 74bhp unit is fitted to SE cars only. The cleanest New Polos at initial launch are the 1.4 TDI models at 88g/km, while other variants range from 106-110g/km. Later, 1.4 TDI and 1.0 TSI BlueMotion – the first petrol-powered BlueMotion Volkswagen ever – models arrive with 82 and 94g/km of CO2 and official quoted values of 91.1 and 68.9mpg repsectively. Later on, the CrossPolo will gain a 148bhp engine, and the New Polo GTI will be revealed. This time around there’s a power bump to 190bhp (up 12bhp) and a seven-speed DSG gearbox. However, it would appear that Volkswagen has listened to criticism and a six‑speed manual gearbox will also be available. At last! The GTI will be revealed before the year’s end, while the rumours still persist about a high-performance R. VW says 'no' due to cost but time will tell...
The New Polo is the first Volkswagen to have the company’s new MiirrorLink app technology. Built into the infotainment system and optional (£150) from SE models and above, an Android smartphone can be connected to display its contents on the New Polo’s centre console touchscreen. Only approved apps can be used and for safety reasons, certain functionality is limited when the car is on the move. Volkswagen will offer apps itself (such as the Blue Trainer which monitors the car’s and driver’s efficiency, already seen on the Up city car), which will include navigation as well as vehicle data programmes. Third party apps will be available, too, and will include radio and news options. MirrorLink will be offered with ‘Compostion Media’ and ‘Discover Media’ infotainment systems only (SE models and above). Entry-level New Polo S models enjoy a 5-inch colour touchscreen, while all other models have larger 6.5” modules. To improve phone reception and also reduce radiated emissions from the smartphine itself, a ‘Comfort’ mobile phone interface compartment with USB connection can also be specificed.
Did you know? All New Polo engines are EU6-compliant and are up to 21 per cent more fuel efficient than the units they replace PAGE 11 | POLODRIVER.COM | JUNE 2014
New Polo: UK The UK New Polo range initially consists of six trim levels, rising from S to BlueGT. S models are available with the 1.0-litre 59bhp engine only, while an S A/C model adds air‑conditioning for an extra £720 over the cost of the entry-level S. SE and SE Design models have the choice of both 1.0-litre engines, plus the 1.2 TDI and 74bhp TDI. SEL models meanwhile drop the 74bhp TDI for the more powerful 89bhp unit. The 1.2-litre 89bhp TSI of the SE and SE Design is also replaced, this time by a higher output 108bhp version. Range-topping BlueGT cars come with the 1.4 TSI cylinder deactivation unit as before, but this time with 148bhp – a 10bhp boost.
JUNE 2014 | POLODRIVER.COM | PAGE 12
Technical specifications New Polo 1.0 MPI
New Polo 1.2 TSI
New Polo 1.4 TDI
CrossPolo 1.2 TSI
Technology: safety
Displacement (cc)/ cylinders 999/3 Power output 59bhp Maximum torque 70lb ft/95Nm Transmission Front-wheel drive, five-speed manual
Displacement (cc)/ cylinders 1197/4 Power output 89bhp Maximum torque 118lb ft/160Nm Transmission Front-wheel drive, five-speed manual
Displacement (cc)/ cylinders 1422/3 Power output 89bhp Maximum torque 169lb ft/230Nm Transmission Front-wheel drive, five-speed manual
Displacement (cc)/ cylinders 1197/4 Power output 89bhp Maximum torque 118lb ft/160Nm Transmission Front-wheel drive, five-speed manual
Volkswagen claims that the New Polo is the car ‘with the greatest number of safety assistance systems in its class’.
Suspension Front: coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers; rear: coil springs, gas pressure shock absorbers; front and rear anti-roll bars Brakes Front: ventilated discs; rear: drums; ABS with Electronic Brake‑pressure Distribution (EBD), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Suspension Front: coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers; rear: coil springs, gas pressure shock absorbers; front and rear anti-roll bars Brakes Front: ventilated discs; rear: discs; ABS with Electronic Brake‑pressure Distribution (EBD), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Suspension Front: coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers; rear: coil springs, gas pressure shock absorbers; front and rear anti-roll bars Brakes Front: ventilated discs; rear: dicss; ABS with Electronic Brake‑pressure Distribution (EBD), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Suspension Front: coil springs, telescopic shock absorbers; rear: coil springs, gas pressure shock absorbers; front and rear anti-roll bars Brakes Front: ventilated discs; rear: discs; ABS with Electronic Brake‑pressure Distribution (EBD), Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
Wheels/tyres 5J x 14” steel (175/70 R14)*/6J x 15” ‘Lyon’ alloy (185/60 R15)**/7J x 16” ‘Portago’ alloy (215/45 R16)***
Wheels/tyres 6J x 15” ‘Lyon’ alloy (185/60 R15)*/7J x 16” ‘Portago’ (215/45 R16) alloy**
Wheels 7J x 16” ‘Rivazza’ alloy (215/45 R16)*
Wheels 7J x 17” ‘Canyon’ alloy (215/40 R 17)
Top speed 114mph 0-62mph 10.9 seconds
Top speed 110mph 0-62mph 11.4 seconds
Fuel consumption Urban 70.6mpg, extra-urban 91.1mpg, combined cycle 83.1mpg CO2 emissions 88g/km
Fuel consumption Urban 47.1mpg, extra-urban 70.6mpg, combined cycle 60.1mpg CO2 emissions 110g/km
Length 3972mm Width (inc mirrors) 1901mm Height 1453mm Wheelbase 2470mm Luggage capacity Seat upright: 280 litres; seat folded: 952 litres
Length 3987mm Width (inc mirrors) 1917mm Height 1488mm Wheelbase 2470mm Luggage capacity Seat upright: 280 litres; seat folded: 952 litres
Top speed 100mph 0-62mph 15.5 seconds Fuel consumption Urban 49.6mpg, extra-urban 68.9mpg, combined cycle 60.1mpg CO2 emissions 106g/km Length 3972mm Width (inc mirrors) 1901mm Height 1453mm Wheelbase 2470mm Luggage capacity Seat upright: 280 litres; seat folded: 952 litres *S models, **SE models, ***SE Design models
Top speed 114mph 0-62mph 10.8 seconds Fuel consumption Urban 47.1mpg, extra-urban 70.6mpg, combined cycle 60.1mpg CO2 emissions 107g/km Length 3972mm Width (inc mirrors) 1901mm Height 1453mm Wheelbase 2470mm Luggage capacity Seat upright: 280 litres; seat folded: 952 litres *SE models, **SE Design models
*SEL models Note: All 1.0-litre (59bhp and 74bhp) New Polos have rear drum brakes as standard, regardless of trim level
That’s no idle boast. All New Polos from the entry-level S to the initial range‑topping BlueGT are equipped with Hill Hold, and an Automatic Post-Collision braking System which, as the name suggests, automatically brakes the car after a collision. This greatly decreases the kinetic energy minimising the chance or gravity of a second impact. New optional safety features include a Driver Alert System, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Front Assist and City Emergency Braking (£500 additional cost). The Driver Alert System is standard on BlueGT models and monitors driver behaviour. If it detects unusual driving patterns, it used visual and acoustic signals to recommend that the driver takes a break. Adaptive Cruise Control meanwhile provides intelligent control of your driving speed by automatically adjusting accelerating and braking by use of a radar sensor mounted at the front of the car. Other optional equipment on all models includes parking sensors and a rear view camera.
For full technical specifications as well as exact standard equipment and pricing, visit www.volkswagen.co.uk PAGE 13 | POLODRIVER.COM | JUNE 2014
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