In February 2022, media representatives at Volkswagen’s Kariega plant in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) witnessed the local launch of the updated 6th generation Polo hatchback. It’s no secret that Volkswagen’s Polo and Polo Vivo have topped sales over the last 12 years and that VW has reigned in the passenger-car segment. 1
The Polo’s popularity
This Polo hatchback ranks as the second most wanted model worldwide, with the popular Tiguan family car in first place. There’s no doubt that the Polo hatchback exemplifies South African success. 1
The Kariega production facility
This facility can produce up to 165,000 units each year, while 75% of cars manufactured here leave for export to Africa, Australia, Asia, and Europe, amongst others. 1
Some opposition to the Polo
The Polo has managed to withstand European competition due to an upsurge in the popularity of electric vehicles, and it’s expected this won’t change. 1
The Polo’s exterior features
VW has redesigned the Polo’s front and rear bumpers and provided new Eco LED headlights and taillights for all Polo derivatives. The Polo GTI stands out with its IQ Light Matrix LED headlights and LED light bar flowing across the upper grille area. 1
How about the Polo’s interior?
All Polo derivatives have a Digital Cockpit or instrument cluster and updated infotainment systems, such as the 6.5-inch Composition Colour system. Customers can also request the optional 8.0-inch Discover Media system, equipped with satellite navigation, voice control, wireless app connect and inductive smartphone charging. Seat upholstery and the multi-function steering wheel also have a new look. 1
What does the optional safety package include?
VW’s IQ Drive Travel Assist driver-assistance suite consists of Front Assist, Pedestrian Monitoring, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist. 1
What’s the Polo’s performance like?
The hatchback is fabulous to drive and is the most advanced hatchback regarding ride/handling balance and on-road development. No other cars in this segment provide such features. It feels solid on the road and confidently negotiates corners, because of responsive steering. The Polo Life boasts of 15-inch alloy wheels providing an excellent, comfortable drive. 1
The Polo’s powerful engine
The Polo Life has a 1.0-litre turbopetrol engine, generating 75 kW of power and 175 Nm of torque via a five-speed manual transmission. Besides its excellent performance, the Polo still averages fuel consumption at a mere 5.4 litres/100 km. 1
The high-performance Polo GTI
Everything about this Polo is sporty, such as its styling and sports suspension, which is 5 mm lower than the standard Polo. The 17-inch Milton Keyness alloy wheels complete the picture. The Polo has a 2.0-litre turbopetrol engine providing 147 kW power and 320 Nm torque. It’s paired with a fast-shifting 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 1
The Polo GTI on the road
The GTI performs powerfully, and the driver can select one of four drive modes: Eco, Normal, Sport and Individual. Its 0 – 100 km/hour sprint is a mere 6.7 seconds. 1
Disclaimer
This article reviews the Volkswagen Polo for sale in South Africa. 1
Buying a new Polo with bank finance means you must, by law, take out comprehensive car insurance. For more information, contact us at Prime South Africa, where we can spoil you with world-class client service. We’ll show you more about our affordable car insurance products with their unique benefits, such as fixed premiums* and a reduce-to-zero excess*. Ts and Cs apply.
If you want to buy a financial services product, first seek professional advice from a financial advisor.
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