Super TestCar reviews - Volkswagen - Polo - hatch rangeVolkswagen modelsOverviewGolf GTI-style popularity is VW’s intention for its keener, sharper Polo hot hatch30 Nov 2010 VOLKSWAGEN must hope that lightning strikes twice with the all-new second-gen Polo GTI, because it is using the same ultra successful packaging and pricing formula that has made the Golf GTI a legend in its own lifetime. From the high-tech super-efficiency of the 1.4-litre Twincharge four-pot powerplant and DSG dual-clutch gearbox, to the evocative tartan seats, the Polo GTI on paper seems every inch the baby brother of one of the most desirable models available in Australia for under $50,000. But does that translate to something special on the road? Read on ... Model release date: 1 November 2010 to 1 July 2014 All car reviewsAlfa Romeo Abarth Alpine Alpina Audi Aston Martin BMW Bentley Chevrolet Chery Citroen Chrysler Dodge Cupra Ferrari DS Ford Fiat FPV Foton GWM Great Wall Holden Haval HSV Honda Hyundai Hummer Isuzu Infiniti Jeep Jaguar Lamborghini Kia LDV Land Rover Lotus Lexus Maserati Mahindra McLaren Mazda Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-AMG Mini MG Nissan Mitsubishi Peugeot Opel Proton Porsche Renault Ram Rover Rolls-Royce Skoda Saab SsangYong Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Tesla Volvo Volkswagen Previous modelVOLKSWAGEN softened the stark four-eyed look of the fourth-generation Polo released in 2002 with a smoother and friendlier face, as well as a host of refinements and new models designed to build on the driveability advances made over previous editions. Among these was the first GTI, boasting a 110kW/210Nm 1.8-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. No auto was offered. Other hot hatch cues included a modest body kit, different grille, fog lights, alloy wheels, a lower ride height and a sportier cabin featuring bespoke instrumentation, bolstered front seats and leather-trimmed steering wheel. Among the standard items were six airbags, anti-lock brakes with brake-force distribution, electronic stability control and a low tyre-pressure indicator. Sales were modest but steady, with the GTI accounting for about 15 per cent of total Polo sales. |
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