The 2010 Volkswagen Polo For South Africa

Volkswagen South Africa has dropped the bomb on the 2010MY Polo. The new model will use principles from the companies “Design DNA” which links to the new Golf 6 and Scirocco models. The new Polo will is linked to the supermini class which is said to be mature, opposed to cute.

The front end has been adapted for the new Polo, and this means a flat grille and new headlights which emphasize the cars addition width. There will be a low center of gravity followed by a body-coloured front spoiler. The rear end will have a roof edge spoiler integrated into the tailgate.

Inside you’ll find different styling in the form of Trendline and Comfortline.

The engine will be a 1.6-litre unit with 77kW. There will be a 63kW 1.4-litre unit available as well and this will be backed up by a 5-speed gearbox which munches 6.1-litres of fuel per 100km.

The diesel 1.6 TDi will boast 77kW and it will apply to the Euro-5 emission standards.

Features: Trendline Vs Comfortline

Tendline

Exterior and wheels

* Turn signal lights laterally integrated in outside mirrors
* Roof post trim, high-gloss
* Galvanized body
* Radiator grille and air intake screen in black
* Steel wheels, 5J x 14, with full wheel covers, tyres 175/70 R 14
* Bumpers in car colour
* Green tinted glass

Interior

* Storage bins in all doors (space for 1.5 liter bottles in front)
* 2 cup holders
* Driver’s seat, height adjustable
* 4 roof-mounted grab handles, damped
* Cargo area cover
* Foldable Rear Seat
* Fabric seat covers, Titan Black “Metric” pattern
* 12-V appliance outlet in centre console and cargo area
* Tie-down eyes in cargo area

Safety

* Airbag for driver and front passenger, front passenger airbag can be deactivated
* Three-point automatic safety belts in front with height adjustment and belt tensioners
* 3 three-point automatic safety belts in rear
* Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with braking assistant,
* ISOFIX-compatible child seat preparation on rear bench seat
* Head airbags including side curtain airbags in front
* Safety-optimised head restraints, front
* 3 head restraints, rear
* Triangular safety reflector
* Electronic immobiliser

Convenience

* Outside mirror with interior adjuster, aspherical on driver’s side
* Power windows, front
* Cargo area lighting
* Holder for triangular safety reflector
* Rear window wiper with intermittent adjustment at switch
* Heating and ventilation system with 4-stage blower and recirculation switch
* Interior lighting in front with shutoff delay and contact switches at all doors
* Instrument backlighting in white, dimmable; red night design for switches
* Instrument cluster with electronic speedometer, odometer and trip odometer, tachometer
* Convenience turn signal (1 press = 3 flashes)
* Steering column, height and length adjustable
* Make-up mirrors in sun visors
* Power steering, electro-hydraulically controlled
* Dust and pollen filter
* Warning tone if lights are left on
* Warning tone and indicator lamp if seatbelt in front is unfastened
* Central locking

Comfortline

Based on Trendline specifications and including:

Exterior and wheels

* Outside mirror housings and door handles in car colour
* Radiator grille black with chrome trim strip
* Front Foglights
* Twin lamp headlights
* Riverside alloy wheels, 6J x 15, tyres 185/60 R15

Interior

* Storage pockets on front seatbacks
* Air vents and gear shift: bezels in brushed chrome
* Leather multi function 3-spoke steering wheel with matt chrome insert
* Parking brake lever knob in brushed chrome
* Glove box with cooling feature
* Instruments with decorative bezels in brushed chrome
* Foamed instrument panel
* Illuminated front footwell
* Rotary light switch with brushed chrome bezel
* Rear bench seat and seatback, folding, asymmetrical split, with dual cargo floor
* Fabric seat covers, Titan black “Fonzie” pattern
* Fabric floor mats, front and rear
* Front seats height adjustable

Convenience

* Outside mirrors, power adjustable and heated
* Dual-tone signal horn
* Power windows in all doors
* “Climatic” climate control system including dust and pollen filter
* 2 reading lamps in front, 1 in rear
* Make-up mirror, illuminated, in sun visors

Optional Features

The new Polo can be further individualised by an extensive offering of options.

These include optional features such as:

* Radio/CD/MP3 RCD 210 with 4X20 Watt output, six loudspeakers, AUX-IN multimedia socket
* Park Distance control (Rear)
* Cruise Control
* Multi function steering (standard on Comfortline)
* Front foglights (standard on Comfortline)
* Curtain Airbags
* Tow bar

Exterior colours

Volkswagen will offer the new Polo in eight colours, namely:

* Candy White
* Flash Red
* Black
* Reflex Silver
* Shadow Blue
* Pepper Grey
* Savannah Yellow
* Deep Black

Comparison:

 

Press Release

the new polo

design

Safety reaches the level of the next higher class

1:1 transfer of Volkswagen “Design DNA” to the new Polo

Design of compact Volkswagen orchestrated by Walter de Silva

Visually speaking, the new Polo was developed 1:1 from the principles of the new Volkswagen “Design DNA”. The Scirocco was the first vehicle with this design and the second wave of the new DNA appeared in the new Golf. Both these cars were well received by the local customers with the new Golf being named as a finalist in the 2010 South African Guild of Motoring Journalists Car of the Year competition.

Close network of designers, development engineers and production experts

A precondition for implementing this design philosophy, which is characterised by the greatest precision and clarity, are progressive and highly innovative development and production methods. Designers, development engineers and production experts at Volkswagen work together to produce a level of quality, both technical and visual, that is generally only found in cars several classes higher. This teamwork was implemented with great success over the past three years by a leadership team under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn. On this team, experts such as Prof. Dr. Jochem Heizmann (Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Group; Production and Chairman of the Volkswagen of South Africa Board of Management), Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg (Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen Brand; Development) and Walter de Silva (Head of Group Design) combine their creative energies to design and produce cars like the new Polo.

BODY DIMENSIONS

Thanks to the new Design DNA defined by Walter de Silva, the impression that this Polo makes – in contrast to many other cars in the so-called A0 or supermini class – is not contrived or ‘cute’; instead it is mature.

New Polo shows the new Volkswagen family face

The Polo, with its distinctive new Volkswagen family face, is instead a purposeful and impressive car, which – measuring 3 970 millimetres in length (+ 54 millimetres compared to previous model) and 1 682 millimetres wide (+ 32 millimetres) – offers space for up to five people and a lot of luggage (280 to 952 litres). The car’s generous gain in width combined with a reduction in height (- 13 to 1 453 millimetres) lends the Polo a more dynamic stance and purposeful appearance. The design itself is defined by sharp, precise lines without stylistic gimmicks that quickly fade in popularity; because in the long run, less is more – and the consistently high resale values of Volkswagens are long-standing proof of this claim.

Walter de Silva’s creative touch in a style of “Semplicità”

This explains why Walter de Silva intentionally declared “La Semplicità” – “the simplicity” – as his credo here. “La Semplicità” in no way means a diminishment of features. The opposite is the case.

Walter de Silva says: “Elegance and emotionality, sportiness and dynamics, continue to guide design and styling. In pursuit of simplicity and clarity, one must carefully consider how to express the intentions of designers while speaking to those of the observer.”

The starting point for all of these deliberations is the car’s reflection on the Volkswagen brand, its history and its values.

De Silva explains: “Certain distinctive design elements have evolved as typical of the brand. Mastery of the architecture and a balance of proportions have formed the foundation. The emphasis on horizontal lines has evolved into a unifying characteristic across models, and a literal love for details has become an essential means of expression.”

Above all, there is a very high level of quality that can be clearly seen in the unmistakable precision of the car’s lines and in the treatment of its surfaces. The new Polo reflects these design principles par excellence.

“The Polo,” underscores de Silva, “displays self-assured proportions. As soon as you see the car, you are struck by its dynamic looks, while the design is clean and the overall appearance very purposeful. Reduced radii, tight seams and extremely sharp panel edges in its side profile, engine hood and tailgate underscore the car’s logical design concept. Above all, the gain in width leads to a very full, powerful image from every perspective.”

Front end

The Volkswagen family face that has been specially adapted to the new Polo with its flat grille and band of headlights that has typified the brand ever since the Scirocco – emphasizes the car’s additional width. Moreover, it conveys an image of the car’s very low centre of gravity. Harmoniously integrated in this face are the Polo’s body-coloured bumpers beneath the black grille.

In a third horizontal line below this, there is another large air inlet that supplies the engine and brakes with ample air. At its sides, this black band incorporates the daytime running lights and fog lights with integrated turn indicators. Just a few centimetres above the road, the narrow body-coloured front spoiler catches the eye. This spoiler has been moved forward, and it makes a decisive contribution towards the car’s exemplary pedestrian protection credentials.

Volkswagen offers the Polo with two different headlights, depending on selected options: the “Trendline” base version is fitted with single headlights. Dual headlights are installed starting with the “Comfortline”. Also integrated in the headlights are the turn signal lights. In terms of styling, external and internal design features of the headlights with their different lighting elements combine with the lines of the radiator grille to form one unit.

Rear end

The rear of the car is characterised by geometric order and sportiness. The design cue from the headlights, with their line breaking off with an upward turn, is taken up again in the taillights. They also display a very distinctive night look and extend into the Polo’s broad shoulder.

Supported on these shoulders – in the area of the car’s lateral “character line” that can be seen from every perspective – is the roof section. Meanwhile, the tailgate extends right down to the bumper. Just as on the new Golf, the Polo’s tailgate is opened with the VW logo, which swivels up and functions as a handle. Standard equipment: a roof edge spoiler integrated in the tailgate.

The car’s image is also exceptionally powerful from the rear. From this angle, one can clearly see how designers exploited the increased track width (+ 29 millimetres in front and + 30 in rear) and stretched the outer wheels along a vertical plane right up to the wheel wells as though carved out with a knife.

Side profile

The lateral profile line is, among other things, dominated by the distinctively sporty front overhang and extremely short rear overhang, the clearly modelled “character line” and low roof that slopes towards the rear. The prominent shoulder line also gives the vehicle a new lateral structure and emphasizes its generally masculine appearance. Since the fourth generation, the five-door Polo has also sported what is known as a “three window look”. This refers to the third side window integrated in the C pillar. This design feature is especially prominent on the new Polo. In the area of the A and C pillars, the lower window line also takes an upward sweep, a reference to the styling of the headlights and taillights. Also striking are the pronounced side skirts, whose shape offers aerodynamic benefits. The Polo’s underbody is optimised for optimal airflow. Also enhancing aerodynamic performance are the redesigned outside mirror housings, whose air resistance has been reduced by 20 percent compared to the previous model.

QUALITY AND PASSIVE SAFETY

Top results when it comes to static rigidity

High body quality and passive safety are very “perceptible” aboard a car, especially in the rigidity of the car body. This is quite evident on the new Polo, because the Volkswagen offers an excellent value of static torsional rigidity at 180,000 Nm/°. The reason: a car body’s static rigidity is a key technical property and an important and relevant parameter in evaluating subjective parameters such as safety, quality, and

of course driving comfort. The high static rigidity of the new Polo is attained, among other things, by very high-strength steels and the right structural design for loading and reinforcement of body nodal points.

This is clearly illustrated at the rear of the Polo: Here too there are very rigid nodal components with envelope-type profile construction, which extend quite far into the contact area of the tailgate hinges. In addition, adhesive joints are used. This construction method optimises the approach of using a nodal system for rigidity and produces a homogeneous distribution of rigidity in upper body sections. Similar examples of profile-intensive lightweight envelope construction can be found throughout the Polo’s body structure.

Greater stability despite reduced weight

Static rigidity was certainly not attained at the cost of added weight. The opposite is true: The car has an excellent lightweight construction factor of 3.6. The lower this factor, the more efficient the implementation of body structure in terms of lightness and rigidity. The new Polo is therefore a perfect example of highly innovative lightweight construction. The fact that the body of this Volkswagen is 7.5 percent lighter than that of the previous model, despite its safety gains, illustrates this impressively.

Top values for dynamic rigidity too

High dynamic rigidity is an essential factor in attaining excellent vehicle dynamics, vibration comfort and ideally balanced acoustics. On the new Polo, the combination of an optimal structural layout of the car body, clever material selection and innovative welding and gluing processes result in top values of 43 Hz for the so-called torsional natural frequency and 46 Hz for the bending natural frequency. In all relevant body zones, high local rigidity values also provide for good sound insulation and therefore for an exceptionally low interior noise level.

Crash behaviour

The new Polo scored five stars in the stringent Euro NCAP crash test which makes it the safest compact car in the world. The higher structural rigidity of the Polo’s bodyshell contributed to these results. In the footwell area alone, intrusion – related to the car body’s resistance to deformation in a frontal crash – was lowered by 50 percent. In the case of a side impact, the intrusion value was reduced by 20 percent. Specific actions taken to protect occupants in a frontal, side or rear crash:

Frontal crash

In a frontal crash – such as an offset crash between two vehicles (with half vehicle overlap of both vehicles) that commonly occurs – the very rigid occupant cell creates a survival space for the driver and passenger. In front, an extremely rigid bumper crossmember was specially designed for an offset crash, in that it takes the impact energy and distributes it to the side of the vehicle not directly affected by the impact too. As a result, both side frame members can now absorb the energy together.

The side frames were optimised to achieve a deceleration curve in a frontal crash that significantly reduces on occupant loads.

Moreover, the lower crossmember in the footwell area is designed as a form strengthened component. First, this has reduced its weight by half, and second, it attains very high strength. As previously noted, this has reduced intrusions in the footwell area by up to 50 percent compared to the previous model. In turn, this reduces biomechanical loads to the feet and lower legs enormously. The pedals in the Polo offer passive protection; ideally they prevent injuries in a crash by freeing up space for the feet and lower legs.

The side body section, designed as a type of ring structure – together with the door framed within it – provides for additional form stability, even in frontal accidents with very little overlap. In what are known as load paths, extremely strong, partially form-strengthened sheet metal reinforcements are used here too – in the A-pillar, the similarly braced door rail extending to the B-pillar, the roof frame and the side sills.

Side impact

The Polo development team assigned special priority to effective side impact protection, since the crush zone in the area of the doors is of course quite small. When the new Polo collides with an object on its side, the energy is channelled via the special form-strengthened B-pillar and profiled impact beams arranged diagonally in the door. Compared to the previous model, the seat crossmember and side sills were significantly reinforced. In this way, both the speed of the intruding object, or colliding vehicle in the crash as well as the intrusion itself, are reduced by 20 percent in a side impact, as already mentioned.

Very critical, as a rule, are accidents in which the car collides with a tree from the side. This case is simulated in crash tests by a so-called pole impact. The Polo body offers an extremely high level of safety in this crash type, thanks to a hot-formed and therefore very stable roof frame and rigid side sills. Compared to the previous model, intrusion has also been reduced considerably here. And indeed by 15 percent.

Rear impact

The rear area of the new Polo was reinforced by especially strong side frames. The fuel system is also given a protective enclosure. In tandem with the very stable occupant cell described, the Volkswagen fulfills the highest requirements in a crash involving collision to the rear body section as well.

Pedestrian safety

Along with the focus on protecting occupants on board the Polo, high priority was also given to the safety of other traffic participants. In a relatively compact car like the Polo, partner safety primarily refers to pedestrian safety. Requirements related to pedestrian safety were integrated early in the design phase of development work.

In the front hood area, interior sheet metal was designed to provide maximum deformation space to prevent punching through onto the hard area of the engine block. The hinges of the engine hood were also optimised for pedestrian safety. The fenders have separate deformation elements as well. In addition, the bumpers were of course integrated into this concept to guarantee the best possible protection of pedestrians.

Restraint systems

The new Polo has a highly effective network of airbags as standard equipment, including combined head-thorax airbags (integrated in the front seatbacks), belt tensioners and seatbelt limiters plus seatbelt warning indicator, head restraints that counteract whiplash (both front restraints), three rear head restraints and ISOFIX mounting preparation for suitable child seats. On the active side, the standard electronic stabilisation program (ESP) completes the safety system.

The safest Polo of all times

The sum result of all of these actions is effective. The body provides an exceptionally good foundation for attaining very low crash loading of the people on board, based on the car’s optimised crash deceleration, low level of intrusions and the safety cell that is created. The restraint systems individually tuned to the Polo also make a contribution toward reducing injury risk as much as possible. The new Polo has advanced to be one of the world’s safest cars in its class.

Interior

Perfection in Ergonomics and Quality

Interior brings new level of quality to the A0 class

New cockpit has decidedly driver-oriented ergonomics

All Volkswagens are known for their intuitive user controls and excellent ergonomic properties – regardless of the proportions of their driver and passengers. These are clearly properties of the new Polo too. The entire interior has been redesigned.

Starting with the “Trendline”, the surface of the instrument panel is upgraded by so-called slush technology (a high-end surface structure that is soft to the touch).

Driver-oriented ergonomics

Noteworthy here is the centre console that is now turned more toward the driver for convenience. The controls on this console are laid out as on the previous model, but they have been completely redesigned.

At the very top there are two central air vents, which have high-end bezels with the aluminium look in the Comfortline and high-gloss black in the Trendline. On the console level below this, Polo drivers will find a familiar row of switches with details like the hazard lights switch, which is readily accessible and visible, and push buttons for the heated rear window and optional heated seats. The next level down contains controls for the new radio system that is being introduced on the Polo for the first time.

Finally, the lowermost console level is home to the completely redesigned user controls for the ventilation or climate control system (“Climatic” is standard equipment starting in the Comfortline). A practical feature here is cooling of the glove box. Also integrated here is a sunglasses compartment and deactivation switch for the front passenger’s airbag. The vehicle service book is stored in a space-saving storage slot at the base of the glove box.

White instrument backlighting

The instruments of the Polo were also redesigned; they now have white backlighting and are styled like those on the Golf. The fuel gauge is digital in the new generation Polo. Like the bezels for the air vents, the rotary light switch – still located on the right – gets a high-end metallic look in the “Comfortline”.

Similar to other new models of the Volkswagen brand, new three-spoke steering wheels were developed for the Polo. The top version sports a leather steering wheel that is somewhat more compact than on the new Golf.

An optional multifunctional leather steering wheel (with user controls in the left spoke) will be offered too. Making a decidedly ergonomic impression are the armrests in the door trim panels (with storage bin for a 1.5 litre bottle) and a front centre armrest (folding with storage compartment) that can now be ordered on the Polo for the first time.

More space at all seating positions

The driver’s seat, front passenger’s seat and rear bench seat were all redesigned. More space is now offered at all five seating locations in the Polo. In particular, knee room in the rear has grown with an increase in the interior length to 1,674 millimetres (+ 8 millimetres). Shoulder room in front (1,372 millimetres) has also increased by 22 millimetres.

Thanks to these new dimensions, the new Polo offers a considerably more spacious interior ambiance. The Polo also proves to be very versatile with the rear bench seat able to split 60:40 split to offer more luggage space.

Engines and Transmissions

TDI up to 15 percent more fuel efficient

All three engines carried over from the previous model

TDI offered with the new common rail diesel engine

All three engines in the new Polo have been carried over from the previous model. They will all be paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed tiptronic transmission will be offered as an option in the 1.6i Comfortline.

The petrol four-cylinder engines sport a power range extending from 63 kW in 1.4i to 77 kW in 1.6i. New to the Polo is the common rail turbo-diesel engine. This high-torque 1.6 TDI four-cylinder engine produces 77 kW.

Petrol Engines in Detail

1.4i with 63 kW

The base engine in the new Polo line-up is the 1.4i that is equipped with new engine electronics and a new injection system as well. The four-cylinder aluminium block engine outputs 63 kW at 5 000 rpm. Its maximum torque of 132 Newton-meter is available at 3 600 rpm.

Besides offering good comfort and dynamic performance, the 95 kilogram engine offers excellent fuel economy. The Polo 1.4i will be paired with standard 5-speed transmission and consumes 6.1 litres fuel per 100 kilometres on average. This puts its CO2 value at 144 g/km.

When it comes to dynamic performance, the Polo 1.4i has a top speed of 177 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 12.5 seconds. In this case, the engine’s elasticity is also very good: in fifth gear this Polo accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 18 seconds. The 1.4-liter engine will be offered in the Trendline and Comfortline trims.

1.6i with 77 kW

A new Volkswagen highlight in drive technology is the 1.6i engine. This expresses itself as maximum power with minimal fuel consumption. This contrasts with the fuel consumption and emission values on the level of the already very good engine. It only consumes 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres and its CO2 value is 153 g/km.

The 1.6i reaches its peak power at 5 250 rpm. The maximum torque of 155 Newton-meter is available at 3 500 rpm. The Polo 1.6-liter engine is mated to 5-speed manual transmission. It will be offered in the Trendline and Comfortline trims.

Diesel Engine in Detail

1.6 TDI with 77 kW

The new Polo 1.6 TDI will be fitted with the common rail diesel with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).

The 1.6-liter four-cylinder, 16-valve engine exhibits ideal acoustic properties, a high level of agility and – a crucial factor here – extremely low fuel consumption and emissions. The Polo 1.6 TDI fully complies with the Euro-5 emissions standard.

Technically, the 1 598 cm3 displacement TDI in this segment sets the highest standard on the market. Using a common rail system, the diesel fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber at a pressure of 1 600 bar. Piezo actuators control multiple injections with highly precise fuel quantities and timing.

In an effort to reduce internal engine friction, crankshaft, valve and oil pump drives were optimised. A square stroke/bore ratio minimises friction losses at the cylinder liners. Furthermore, flow energy losses were reduced in oil and coolant loops as well as air induction and charge air flows. This has resulted in a TDI engine that offers uncompromisingly low fuel consumption and emissions without lacking in comfort or dynamic performance in the least.

The TDI engine has 250 Newton-meters of torque which is available between 1 500 to 2 500 rpm. It accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 189 km/h. Average fuel consumption: 4.2 litres diesel per 100 kilometres and its CO2 value is 109 g/km.

Chassis

ESP is standard feature in the tdi

Optimised McPherson front suspension and semi-independent rear suspension

Further improvements in directional stability and comfort

Volkswagen has redesigned many aspects of the new Polo’s chassis with its McPherson front suspension and semi-independent rear suspension. For example, its track width was increased by 29 millimetres in front and 30 in the rear (new dimensions: 1 463mm front, 1 456 mm rear). This has resulted in improved vehicle dynamics. Comfort was enhanced in parallel.

Improved directional stability

In front, Volkswagen has integrated a completely redesigned McPherson strut type suspension in the new Polo. The front wheels were moved five millimetres forward to achieve a greater caster angle, and this offers greater directional stability. Furthermore, new strut bushes are used on the Polo; on the one hand they are lighter, and they also improve ride comfort. Larger wheels can now be used as well, and this further improves comfort. At the same time, these wheels have a positive effect on driving performance.

ESP standard in TDI

The Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) including hill hold control will be offered as standard in the 1.6 TDI Comfortline and as an option in the 1.6i Comfortline. Other safety features such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), braking assistant, anti-slip regulation (ASR), electronic limited-slip differential (EDS) and engine braking control (MSR) will be standard across the range. Overall braking system performance was modified for the new generation Polo; among other elements, the 8.5 inch brake booster is being replaced by a higher performance 7 and 8 inch tandem booster system.

The steering column – with its continuously variable height and reach adjustment – was completely redeveloped. This redesign led to reduced weight. The standard electro-hydraulic power steering system was carried over from the previous model and adapted to the new front suspension kinematics. Engineers developed entirely new tuning of the steering system. Steering feel and responsiveness as well as the centre point – which defines steering feel in the straight-line tracking position – now set new standards.

Features

Uncompromising Safety Features

Trendline, Comfortline trims still offered

Semi-automatic climate control is standard in Comfortline

Volkswagen has carried over the line structure of its equipment lines from the previous model with the Trendline still representing the base variant and Comfortline offering mid level equipment.

Trendline

The Polo Trendline already sports an interior with features that include a number of accents in an elegant high-gloss black. In addition, the Polo Trendline offers extensive safety and convenience features. Active safety features such as ABS with EBD are standard.

Passive safety features include front airbags and head/ thorax airbags (front passenger airbag can be deactivated). The new Polo Trendline trim will also be offered with five head restraints, five three-point harnesses (height-adjustable in front), belt tensioners and belt force limiters in front, and ISOFIX-compatible child seat preparation (at the outer seating positions on the rear bench seat). The front head restraints were also designed to counteract the risk of whiplash injury.

Standard convenience features in the Trendline will include electro-hydraulic power steering, power windows in front, central locking, cargo area lighting and tie-down points, warning buzzer if lights are left on, height adjustment for driver’s seat, vanity mirrors in the sun visors, remote control central locking, asymmetrical split and folding rear bench seat and seatbacks and green tinted windows. Meanwhile, Titan black Metric fabric seat covers give the interior a perceptibly high-end ambiance.

Comfortline

Outward identifying characteristics of the Polo Comfortline include body-coloured outside mirror housings and door handles, dual headlights and 15-inch alloy wheels.

On the convenience side, the range of standard equipment is complemented by features such as semi-automatic climate control (Climatic), electrically-adjustable and heated exterior mirrors, additional height adjustment on front passenger’s seat, various accents in chrome look (instruments, air vents, rotary light switch, radio and climate system controls), storage pockets on front seatbacks, illuminated vanity mirrors for driver and passenger.

Inside, the Polo Comfortline has Titan Black Fonzie fabric seat covers. Titan Black Alcantara leather trim is available as an option in the Comfortline range.

An overview of key features:

Trendline

Exterior and wheels

* Turn signal lights laterally integrated in outside mirrors
* Roof post trim, high-gloss
* Galvanized body
* Radiator grille and air intake screen in black
* Steel wheels, 5J x 14, with full wheel covers, tyres 175/70 R 14
* Bumpers in car colour
* Green tinted glass

Interior

* Storage bins in all doors (space for 1.5 liter bottles in front)
* 2 cup holders
* Driver’s seat, height adjustable
* 4 roof-mounted grab handles, damped
* Cargo area cover
* Foldable Rear Seat
* Fabric seat covers, Titan Black “Metric” pattern
* 12-V appliance outlet in centre console and cargo area
* Tie-down eyes in cargo area

Safety

* Airbag for driver and front passenger, front passenger airbag can be deactivated
* Three-point automatic safety belts in front with height adjustment and belt tensioners
* 3 three-point automatic safety belts in rear
* Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with braking assistant,
* ISOFIX-compatible child seat preparation on rear bench seat
* Head airbags including side curtain airbags in front
* Safety-optimised head restraints, front
* 3 head restraints, rear
* Triangular safety reflector
* Electronic immobiliser

Convenience

* Outside mirror with interior adjuster, aspherical on driver’s side
* Power windows, front
* Cargo area lighting
* Holder for triangular safety reflector
* Rear window wiper with intermittent adjustment at switch
* Heating and ventilation system with 4-stage blower and recirculation switch
* Interior lighting in front with shutoff delay and contact switches at all doors
* Instrument backlighting in white, dimmable; red night design for switches
* Instrument cluster with electronic speedometer, odometer and trip odometer, tachometer
* Convenience turn signal (1 press = 3 flashes)
* Steering column, height and length adjustable
* Make-up mirrors in sun visors
* Power steering, electro-hydraulically controlled
* Dust and pollen filter
* Warning tone if lights are left on
* Warning tone and indicator lamp if seatbelt in front is unfastened
* Central locking

Comfortline

Based on Trendline specifications and including:

Exterior and wheels

* Outside mirror housings and door handles in car colour
* Radiator grille black with chrome trim strip
* Front Foglights
* Twin lamp headlights
* Riverside alloy wheels, 6J x 15, tyres 185/60 R15

Interior

* Storage pockets on front seatbacks
* Air vents and gear shift: bezels in brushed chrome
* Leather multi function 3-spoke steering wheel with matt chrome insert
* Parking brake lever knob in brushed chrome
* Glove box with cooling feature
* Instruments with decorative bezels in brushed chrome
* Foamed instrument panel
* Illuminated front footwell
* Rotary light switch with brushed chrome bezel
* Rear bench seat and seatback, folding, asymmetrical split, with dual cargo floor
* Fabric seat covers, Titan black “Fonzie” pattern
* Fabric floor mats, front and rear
* Front seats height adjustable

Convenience

* Outside mirrors, power adjustable and heated
* Dual-tone signal horn
* Power windows in all doors
* “Climatic” climate control system including dust and pollen filter
* 2 reading lamps in front, 1 in rear
* Make-up mirror, illuminated, in sun visors

Optional Features

The new Polo can be further individualised by an extensive offering of options.

These include optional features such as:

* Radio/CD/MP3 RCD 210 with 4X20 Watt output, six loudspeakers, AUX-IN multimedia socket
* Park Distance control (Rear)
* Cruise Control
* Multi function steering (standard on Comfortline)
* Front foglights (standard on Comfortline)
* Curtain Airbags
* Tow bar

Exterior colours

Volkswagen will offer the new Polo in eight colours, namely:

* Candy White
* Flash Red
* Black
* Reflex Silver
* Shadow Blue
* Pepper Grey
* Savannah Yellow
* Deep Black

Prices (VAT included) – Effective 21 January 2010

Petrol

1.4l 63kW Trendline R144 900

1.4l 63kW Comfortline R161 900

1.6l 77kW Trendline R166 900

1.6l 77kW Comfortline R183 800

1.6l 77kW Comfortline Tiptronic R197 900

Diesel

1.6l 77kW TDI Comfortline R209 900

SERVICE & WARRANTY

The new Volkswagen Polo comes standard with a 3 year/120 000km and a 12 year Anti Corrosion warranties.

A 5 year/ 60 000km Volkswagen Automotion Maintenance Plan as well as a 5 year/ 60 000 km Service Plan are available as options.

The price of a 5 year/ 60 000 km Service Plan will be fromvR6 856 (VAT included) and a 5 year/ 60 000km Volkswagen Automotion Maintenance Plan will be priced from R9 141 (VAT included).

The service interval is 15 000 km.

Success Story of Polo in South Africa

The Polo brand has been an overwhelming success in South Africa since it was first introduced in 1996 in a form of the sedan, Polo Classic. The hatch was added two years later under the moniker of Polo Playa.

The fourth generation Polo – second generation for South Africa – was introduced locally in 2002. By the end of December 2009, over 330 000 Polos had been sold. In 2009, the Polo range sold over 18 300 units, which made it the top selling passenger brand in South Africa. The Polo Hatch accounted for nearly 35% of the Volkswagen monthly total sales.

The fifth generation Polo will be manufactured at the Volkswagen of South Africa production plant in Uitenhage for the local market as well as for export to the global right hand drive markets. Uitenhage is the sole production site for the right hand drive five-door new Volkswagen Polo.

This year – 2010 – Volkswagen of South Africa plans to double its total exports from approximately 28 500 – 19 000 were new Polos – in 2009 to over 55 000 new Polos. The new Polo will be exported to Japan, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Malta and Cyprus.

VWSA’s investment programme commenced in 2008 with the renewal process that included the installation of new technologies, facilities and equipment at the Uitenhage plant. This has enabled VWSA to build cars to worldwide quality and process standards.

At the end of 2009, Volkswagen of South Africa had invested R3.5 billion in new plant, local content development and new product. A further R500 million will be invested this year – 2010 – to complete the process and ensure that the company is well placed to capture future opportunities both in South Africa and in the global markets.

International Accolades

2010 European Car of the Year

The new Volkswagen Polo was celebrated by the international journalists when it premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009.

The Chairman of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Group, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn said: “The new Polo meets the highest standards that are expected in today’s cars and even goes a step further. Its efficient technologies, best possible active and passive safety systems, a level of quality that has never been offered in the A0 class and impressive design all set new benchmarks in the fifth generation – third generation in South Africa – of this bestseller that has sold over 10.6 million – approximately 293 000 in South Africa – units worldwide.”

Prof. Dr Winterkorn continued: “The Polo is clearly the right car at the right time. Here we have created a Volkswagen that takes the unparalleled success of the Golf concept and effectively transfers it to an independent segment – the Polo class.”

The design ingenuity and total package offering of the new Polo has helped Volkswagen to break its 18-year wait for the esteemed European Car of the Year title. In November 2009, the new Volkswagen Polo was named as the 2010 European Car of the Year by the 59 members from 23 European countries. The last time a Volkswagen won was in 1992 with the third generation Golf.

“The new Polo stands for German engineering craftsmanship and superior cutting edge technology. At the same time it is a fresh, youthful and cosmopolitan car.

The fifth generation Polo was designed to address customer expectations with even greater uncompromising standards. That is why we are naturally very pleased to see our efforts validated in the form of this award,” said Prof. Dr. Winterkorn.

The 2010 European Car of the Year award capped what was an extraordinary debut year for the new Polo which was launched in Europe in May 2009. In 2009, the new Polo was named by “auto motor sport” magazine as the 2009 Best Car. It also won the Grüne (“Green”) and the Goldene Lenkrad (“Golden Steering Wheel”) awards by publisher Springer Verlag.