Volkswagen has opened the order books for its latest sixth-generation Polo hatchback. Starting at £13,855 on the road, the new Polo will be offered for the first time in five-door configuration only.
The latest iteration of the small car is larger than the previous model, bringing an increase in cabin and luggage space. It will be available with a host of new three and four-cylinder engines ranging from the naturally aspirated 1-litre MPI with 64bhp to the turbocharged 2.0 TSI with 197bhp. Two 1.6-litre diesel engines are available too.
Regardless of engine choice, all Polos will be fitted with start/stop technology and a system that recovers energy to top up the batteries that would otherwise be lost under braking.
Along with its increased size, the new Polo comes with an impressive range of driver assistance features such as Front Assist, Blind Spot Detection with Rear Traffic Alert, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control and Stop & Go function – a first for a car with a manual handbrake – available optionally, or as standard, depending on which trim level is selected.
The new car also comes with the capability of switching between four different driving profiles, depending on what sort of performance and character the driver wants from the car. These are Eco, Sport, Normal and Individual.
In Eco mode, the engine, air conditioning and other systems are run in a way to maximise fuel efficiency. The Polo even features a coasting function when fitted with the DSG automatic gearbox that disconnects the engine from the wheels when the driver comes off the accelerator pedal, preserving momentum and saving fuel.
In the more potent Sport mode, the engine and gearbox are mapped to become more responsive. If the active dampers have been specified, they also adjust depending on the driving profile selected. Seven trim levels will be available for the new Polo, including GTI and GTI+ variations.
Read our reviews of the new 2018 Volkswagen Polo below.
Gallery: 2018 Volkswagen Polo
