The Volkswagen Polo Vivo was first introduced back in 2010 as a replacement to the iconic Citi Golf. The first-generation Polo Vivo was based on the Mk 4 Polo, and since then it has experienced significant success in the South African market. It has sold over 193 000 units since its inception, making it one of the best-selling motor vehicles in South Africa alongside its big sister, the Polo. These two Volkswagen models dominate the passenger car sales in South Africa, with the Vivo being number one and the Polo in second place.1
The new Polo Vivo is based on the fifth-generation Polo with its own design tweaks on the exterior and interior. 1
When it comes to the exterior changes, they are quite subtle. These changes on the Vivo include new headlights and taillights, a revised upper and lower grille and new alloy rims. The front indicators are now positioned behind the wheel arches, instead of on the mirrors.
Polo Vivo’s performance1
The new Polo Vivo model has maintained its reliability, usability and efficiency with its middle of the range 1.4-litre Comfortline model. It has a naturally aspirated 1.4-litre engine that has a power output of 63kW and 132Nm of torque driven by a 5-speed manual gearbox, which is quite zippy for everyday traffic and use.
Although Volkswagen claims that the Polo Vivo has a fuel consumption of 5.9L/100km, Cars.co.za test car consistently came back with fuel consumption of 7.5L/100km, which is fair but isn’t as great as one would wish for.
How well does it handle? 1
The new Polo Vivo handling has really improved due to the outgoing Polo model being used. The ride on the Vivo is solid and has a more planted feel when going around corners and not having too much body roll at the same time.
The Polo Vivo handles bumps and ruts much better, giving it a very comfortable ride, making it more appealing to urban living.
With the ride and handling on the Vivo being this good it makes it the top of its class and quite untouchable.
Polo Vivo’s interior1
The new Polo Vivo interior feels and looks much better than the old Vivo. With the new interior being substantially better than most budget cars, it sets a benchmark for Volkswagen in this category.
Most of the upper dashboard is made of a soft-touch rubberised plastic which is much better compared to the old Vivo hard plastic. The Polo Vivo comes standard with cloth seats and leather seats as an optional extra. Some say that the seats should offer a little bit more shape and support.
The new Vivo is fitted with a basic infotainment system that offers Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Aux input and SD card slot as standard. The Vivo also boasts a fairly decent sound system for a budget car.
The Vivo comes with a new-look instrument cluster on the steering wheel. The controls for the audio, Bluetooth and the multi-information display is conveniently close at hand on the steering wheel.
The front windows are electric, and the side mirrors are manually adjustable. The Vivo comes with many optional extras, but at a price.
The new Polo Vivo’s boot has a volume of 280 litres, which is 10 litres bigger than the old Vivo. The rear passenger legroom is ideal for the average person and might be a struggle for the taller person to get comfortable.
How much is the new Polo Vivo on sale for in 2019?2
The 1.4-litre Comfortline manual Polo Vivo starts at R206 800 and is sold with a 3-year/120 000 km warranty.
The new Polo Vivo is an affordable, good-quality hatchback for South African motorists that need a reliable daily commuter.
Have you considered getting car insurance for your potential new Polo Vivo? Perhaps consider getting affordable car insurance with Prime South Africa?
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