Five models and prices starting from $25,490 have been announced for the new Volkswagen Polo five-door hatchback that will reach the New Zealand market next month.
The initial launch phase for the sixth-generation Polo will focus on 1.0-litre, three-cylinder TSI models. A new engine to the local market, the triple-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol unit with direct injection and turbocharging, has 70kW output at 4500-5500rpm with 175Nm of torque available from 2000-3500rpm.
The entry-level Polo is priced at $25,490 with a five-speed manual transmission while the same specification is also available with a seven-speed DSG transmission priced at $27,990.
The base models have 15-inch alloy wheels with 185/65 R15 tyres.
The new Polo Beats model (bellow) — which takes its name from a 300-watt Dr Dre audio system — features a contrast exterior colour scheme, Beats decals, a high-gloss black grille, sports comfort front seats, steering-wheel shift paddles, Velvet Red dash inserts and 16-inch alloy wheels is $29,990.
Standard Polo specification highlights include a roster of driver assist features including Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert plus LED daytime running lights.
Other safety features include tyre pressure monitoring, six airbags, Hill Start Assist and Rest Assist driver fatigue warning.
There is standard keyless entry and engine start, power-folding exterior mirrors and a multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel.
Higher grade Polo R-Line and GTI models are scheduled to reach New Zealand in May. The R-Line has an 85kW and 200Nm version of the 1.0-litre TSI powertrain and seven-speed DSG and will be priced at $32,990.
The new Polo GTI brings the highest level of performance yet to the hot-hatch Polo model with a 2.0-litre TSI engine developing 147kW and 320Nm matched to a six-speed DSG transmission and priced from $38,490.
Polo R-Line (bellow) and GTI models offer a raised level of specification that includes dual-zone Climatronic air conditioning, interior ambient lighting system, LED headlights, front fog lamps, dark red LED tail lights, rear privacy glass and the Discover Media 8.0-inch colour touchscreen with satellite navigation.
An exterior package for the R-Line includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, rear diffuser and R-Line specific grille and front bumper design while the cabin has an R-Line sports steering wheel, sports seats and a black headliner.
Polo GTI has its own unique exterior treatment with a honeycomb grille, a modified front bumper with enlarged air inlet, rear spoiler, red painted brake callipers, twin chrome tailpipes and GTI badging along with a black headlining and alloy-look pedals.
There are 17-inch alloy wheels as well as sports suspension and electronic diff lock for the Polo GTI and there are alternative style 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheel options available.
Other options for both R-Line and GTI models include the Active Info Display with high-resolution 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster which is $1000.