#87 Volkswagen Polo – Much Improved

The Volkswagen Polo is one of the world's best-selling supermini cars with nearly 14 million units produced. Whatever the segment name, and regardless of its compact dimensions, attractive prices and good fuel economy values, there is nothing small about the Polo. All the more so now, because a generation of the bestseller is now making its debut which has been significantly updated technically. The Volkswagen Polo of 2014 also increases its lead over the competition with an impressive range of new convenience and safety functions that are unique in its class.

Volkswagen Polo 

Design

The front-end design -has a much more three-dimensional and sporty look due to its redesigned bumper and larger lower air intake. A new chrome trim strip is a design-structuring element that visually joins the two fog lights and gives the Polo a wider look. At the same time, the trim strip shifts the visual centre of gravity further downward. From the side, the 2014 VW Polo can be made out by its six new alloy wheel designs of a total of ten offered. In the rear bumper area, the car's width is emphasised by further developed styling, a cleaner horizontal layout, and a wider cut-out for the licence plate. The trapezoidal outer contour of this area extends into the rear wheels, which creates a more dynamic tension of surfaces. The rear reflectors embedded in the bumper also give the visual impression of greater width. The rear lights were redesigned as well.

The Volkswagen Polo's profile 

Power

The 2014 VW Polo is powered by new three- and four-cylinder power unit. Confirmed engine power output ranges from 44 kW/59hp to 81 kW/108 hp. The VW Polo can also be ordered with a twin-clutch paddle shift DSG gearbox. A newly developed electro-mechanical steering system is making its debut in the Volkswagen Polo. The new Polo steering system is distinguished by its very precise and agile response and steering properties. At the front, Volkswagen has integrated a completely redesigned McPherson strut type suspension in the 2014 VW Polo. The front wheels are moved five millimetres forward to offer greater directional stability. Larger wheels can be fitted as well further improving comfort. Handling the rear wheels is a semi-independent rear suspension.

Cockpit

Interior

Many new ergonomic and visual improvements have been made inside the 2015 VW Polo. Along with the new three-spoke steering wheels of the Golf class, the new instrument cluster with its 3D tube look is a prominent visual highlight. The layout of controls on the redesigned centre console is very intuitive. On the upper control level, just beneath the air vents, is a control panel that has been expanded from seven to nine buttons; positioned in the middle and easy to reach, for instance, is the hazard lights unit. The 2014 Volkswagen Polo is the first Volkswagen to get the second generation radio and radio-navigation systems of the "modular infotainment system" (MIB).The driver’s seat, front passenger’s seat and rear bench seat offer plenty of comfort. All occupants enjoy impressive amounts of head and legroom. The 2014 VW Polo also proves to be very versatile, with the rear bench seat able to split 60:40 split to offer more luggage space.

Redesigned rear 

Verdict

The 2014 VW Polo refined looks, practical interior and economical engines sum up the supermini’s overall great credentials. VW couldn't resist making the Polo slightly better with plenty of new features and a cockpit that speaks class. The 2014 VW Polo is a welcomed choice for anyone looking for a practical mini hatchback with credentials of a normal sized hatchback.