7 February 2011
The 2005 representation Polo is a face-lifted version of the fourth generation Polo introduced in 2001, and it has grown, adding 19mm length over the outgoing shape.
As per other vehicles in the Volkswagen family, the Polo takes on the striking V-shaped grill area that extends up the bonnet.
Inside the Polo hasn't changed too much, but it didn't really need to.
The interior is typically German and more clinical than some of its funkier compeers, but its build quality and selection of textiles is superb.
The four-spoked steering wheel lacks leather so grip could be improved, but it offers sporty looks and shape. A three-spoked leather wheel will add $300. 'Climatic' semi automatic climate control is standard on all Polos.
Both front seats featured storage bins underneath and height adjustment to enable easier ingress and egress. Volkswagen seating tends to err towards the harder side of cushy and the Polo is no exception.
The seats were also a little short in thigh support, and a long drive required a 'stretch the legs' stopover. A nice sounding radio/CD player and front electric windows are standard fitment, as is the fastest spring loaded cup holder we've come across; which is fantastic for frightening passengers.
Currently only one engine option is available, a 1.4 litre double overhead cam petrol that generates a meagre 55kW @ 5000 rpm and 126Nm@3800 rpm.
It may not win any races; but despite the humble power output we found the Polo could still motor along at highway speeds comfortably, with two passengers and a full hatch of camping equipment.
Overtaking on the open road is still possible albeit restricted to flat sections and with good amount of clear blacktop ahead. Regular downshifting was required to maintain acceleration up steeper gradients.
An automatic version is available to relieve the driver of such burdens, but we suspect the 55kW engine may be too underpowered for the heavier automatic for anything other than urban driving.
Less grunt comes with one significant advantage however; economy. A mere wipe with an oily rag over the fuel filler could keep the Polo going, and it sipped fuel at average rate of only 5.7 litres/100km (49.5 MPG).
Most super-minis don't often offer the best ride comfort on the open road. The Polo however exceeded expectations, and outperformed most of its class competitors on a long drive, giving excellent ride comfort while not compromising handling agility
The skinny 14-inch steel rim and tyre combination didn't compliment what the rest of the vehicle as capable of. The optional 14-inch or 16-inch alloy and tyre options should offer improved grip.
For a super-mini the Polo demonstrates commendable safety, but side (thorax) airbags are a cost option ($500) that many class competitors now include as standard feature. Electronic Stability and curtain airbags are further safety features that are also available at extra cost. If purchasing second hand try and locate model with this option fitted.
Luggage space is good with up to 1030 litres at your disposal with the seats folded creating an almost flat load floor.
The new Polo exhibits the same high build quality we've come to expect from Volkswagen, the steering and chassis dynamics gave the car a sophisticated feel worthy of a larger car.
The 55kW engine is among the least powerful on the market, but there is a GTi model to appeal to performance orientated buyers.
Charging extra for some equipment that others in the market segment offer at no cost, the Polo sits firmly at the high end of the super-mini pricing scale, which is the car's biggest disappointment.