The Volkswagen Polo hatchback epitomises smart, efficient, subcompact hatchback motoring. Whether you’re a student, a young family, a housewife, a commuter or an empty nester, there’s a Polo that’s right for you. There’s even a Polo GTI for robot racers. But here - just months before a new-generation Polo arrives in SA — is a Polo with a difference: a high-tech model with an advanced three-cylinder engine. Does it point the way to Volkswagen’s future?

SPECS

Make and model: VW Polo 1.0 TSI DSG Bluemotion
Engine: In-line three-cylinder, 999 cc, turbo
Power : 81 kW @ 5 000 rpm
Torque: 200 Nm @ 2 000 - 3 500 rpm
Power-to-weight ratio: 70,652 kW/ton
Gearbox: Seven-speed DSG dual-clutch, FWD
Wheels/tyres: 17-inch alloy, 215/40 R17 tyres

PERFORMANCE
0-100 km/h: 9,3 sec
Top speed: 197 km/h
Fuel tank capacity: 45 litres
Fuel consumption (claimed/tested): 4,4/6,7 litres/100 km
Operating range (claimed/tested): 1 020/670 km
CO2 emissions: 102 g/km

SUMMARY AND PRICING

PROS
A lot more entertaining than expected.
CONS
High-tech efficiency comes at a price. Replacement imminent.

Retail price/as tested: R290 200/R319 649
Rivals
Ford Fiesta 1.0T Titanium: AT R274 900
Peugeot 208 1.2T GT Line: R259 900
Renault Clio 88 kW GT Line: R264 900