Volkswagen has unveiled an updated version of the popular Polo hatchback set to go on sale in April with first deliveries expected in late July.
One of the biggest headlines for the refreshed model will be a range of new EU6-compliant engines offering fuel efficiency improvements of up to 21 percent.
The 1.2-litre diesel-powered Polo BlueMotion is to be replaced with a new 1.0-litre TSI petrol-powered model which returns 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and emits 94g/km of CO2.
The outgoing diesel BlueMotion has CO2 emissions of 91g/km placing it into a 13 percent BIK tax band. Despite having higher emissions the new 1.0 litre BlueMotion petrol sits in an 11 percent BIK tax band for the current 2013/14 tax year (diesel engines are subject to a 3 percent surcharge until 2015) meaning substantial tax savings for company car drivers.
There will now only be two diesel options available, both three-cylinder 1.4-litre TDI engines with either 74bhp or 89bhp available.
The petrol range will consist of two 1.0-litre engines with 59bhp or 74bhp and two 1.2-litre four-cylinder TSI engines with 89bhp or 108bhp. As before, a 1.4-litre TSI engine will be available, this time with power increased to 148bhp.
Accompanying the new engine line-up is an enhanced equipment list aiming to help broaden its appeal and put the Polo back in line with rivals like the Ford Fiesta.
Volkswagen’s infotainment system, familiar to Golf drivers, is being introduced across the Polo range which includes a function that reacts to wiping movements by the fingers (as used on smartphones).
Options include a Driver Alert System and Front Assist with City Emergency Braking, adaptive cruise control, Sport Select suspension system and LED headlights.
Exterior changes are only slight, inside sees more of a refresh with redesigned instruments and a new steering wheel.
Click here to read our full review of the Volkswagen Polo.
