A new diesel engine and subtle cosmetic
tweaks mark the mid-life update for VW’s hatchback
Many are calling it the new Polo, and, in
some ways, it is. But, in some ways, it is not. Let’s get straight to the car’s
design. The Polo, easily one of the most handsome hatchbacks not just in India
but across the world, has found many takers for its clean and sophisticated
looks. The purposeful face, geometric headlamps, straighter crease line and
well-balanced proportions give it a no-nonsense look, but in a nice way. All
that stays with the new car.
The
Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDI is a visual standout from every angle, inside and out
There is no real change in exterior
dimensions compared to the outgoing model. The front grille, headlamps,
tail-lamps, rear spoiler and most of the rest of the car stay the way they are.
VW has added a chrome strip at the bottom of the grille and there is another
one running across the front bumper. The chrome bits are a nod to Indian
buyers’ supposed inclination for it – and we keep hearing that from
manufacturers all the time – but, to VW’s credit, it has kept it to a minimum,
so the sophistication of the overall design isn’t lost. The lower chin of the
front bumper now has slats instead of the mesh and, yet, it doesn’t look any
less sporty.
From the outside, there are very little
signs that this is a ‘new’ Polo. We drove the top trim, and it came with a
unique twin-design 10-spoke alloy wheel, which looks better than the solid
five-spoke one on the model it replaces.
The
1.5-litre diesel engine performs even better on the highways as you can simply
go down a gear or two to make quick overtakes
Inside, the overall layout is again similar
to the outgoing model’s, but interior trims and materials have been altered to
provide a more airy look. For example, the centre console’s black plastics have
been replaced by steel grey ones. This houses the older multimedia and climate
control display. The instrument cluster, too, retains the white-on-black
display, but the centre information display colour has been changed from red to
a more polished black. However, the biggest change will be noticed by the
driver, who now gets to hold an all-new, flat-bottomed, leather-wrapped
steering wheel, and it is classy compared to the current dull-looking
three-spoke. You also have two separate controls for radio and phone on either
side.
The
tail lights are re-profiled but very minutely
The Polo still feels robustly put together.
Plastic quality and fit and finish is top notch. The seats are reasonably
plush, with appropriately firm cushioning. You will also appreciate the fact
that most storage spaces are actually quite useful. For example, the glovebox
is wide and deep, and the door pockets can accommodate a one-litre water bottle
plus some documents. The rear is still comfortable for two abreast. Three will
be a squeeze, especially legroom, because the centre passenger will have to sit
astride the transmission tunnel, which protrudes noticeably out of the floor.
That said, the backrest angle is near perfect and you do not sag into the
seats. If the front seats are not pushed all the way back, legroom is ample.
Shorter passengers get appropriate under-thigh support.
