We now know that the upcoming, MQB platform-based Volkswagen Polo will spawn a B-segment, SUV variant; here’s the standard hatchback that the compact crossover will be based on. The move to the new platform promises more interior space, along with the possibilities for alternative powertrain variants.
Codenamed A0, the upcoming Polo range will be the smallest model yet to make use of the MQB platform. The new Polo range will see revised versions of the brand’s 1.0 litre three-cylinder engine, as well as a range of 1.5 litre petrol and diesel powerplants in a departure from the 1.4 litre petrol and 1.6 litre diesel units from before.
This also means it will benefit from the possibilities of all-wheel-drive and plug-in hybrid powertrains, though they are less likely to feature on the standard Polo range compared to the SUV variant, as the latter would be better positioned to justify a higher price tag necessitated by the additional equipment.
As expected, the next MQB-based Polo will feature a GTI variant too, as evidenced by a test mule sporting certain GTI visual cues – larger brakes with red callipers and twin exhaust tailpipes at the rear end. Mechanically, the GTI can be expected to have its own performance-oriented suspension tune, while on the inside the GTI tartan seat upholstery is almost a certainty.
Where the Mk5 Polo GTI initially utilised a version of the 1.4 litre twincharged, direct-injection petrol engine from the Mk6 Golf TSI – and later on, a 1.8 TSI unit – the upcoming model can perhaps be expected to use a developement of the 1.8 litre turbocharged engine.
As for the transmission, the Polo GTI is likely to carry on with the options of either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The A0-generation Volkswagen Polo is expected to make its debut in 2018, with the Polo GTI and the SUV variant to follow shortly thereafter.
GALLERY: 2018 Volkswagen Polo spyshots
GALLERY: MQB Polo GTI spyshots
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Are you jealous that Toyota is still not able to built cars that can go faster than 110km/h?
Even Toyota’s Le Mans racer was disqualified this year, because it’s slow speed was a danger for the other racing teams?
Don’t be sad, 110km/h is more than fast enough for most uncles in Malaysia… :-)
Once a brand name is sullied it is very difficult to regain consumer confidence. Like the “famous” homegrown brand. Not to mention the premium asking price for a not so premium brand. There is no shortage of choices, you know.