2018 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 – new photos released

Volkswagen has released a fresh batch of photos of its new supermini, the Volkswagen Polo Mk6, which was unveiled in June. Notably, the images give us the first look of the standard variant – the car was initially shown in R-Line and Beats versions.

To recap, the sixth-generation model is larger than ever – it’s 81 mm longer (4,053 mm), 94 mm wider (1,751 mm) and 7 mm lower (1,446 mm) than the Mk5, and has a 94 mm longer wheelbase (2,564 mm). It finally moves to the ubiquitous MQB platform – utilising the smaller A0 variant introduced on the SEAT Ibiza – and is torsionally stiffer than before without any increase in body weight.

In order to match the new bones, the new Polo has been given a sharper, more assertive look, gaining more than a few cues from big brother Golf. The headlights, optionally available with LED technology, are placed lower than before, while reprofiled air intakes emphasise the car’s width.

Along the sides, the new arrow-shaped double character lines, combined with the three-dimensional tail lights (LED items are again an option), provide greater definition. Buyers will no longer get the option of a three-door bodystyle – it’s five-door only from here on out – but they will be able to choose from a total of 14 exterior colours and twelve wheel designs ranging from 14 to 18 inches in diameter.

2018 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 – new photos released

The interior sees a more substantial makeover, with a new dual-layer horizontal dashboard design that places greater emphasis on customisation – there are four dashpad colours and 11 seat cover designs available. The new 11.7-inch Active Info Display digital instrument cluster has higher definition and serves up more information in a more logical manner than the previous system offered on other Volkswagen models.

Next-generation infotainment systems on offer have screens measuring either 6.4 or 8.0 inches (the latter has a glass cover) and can be used to send information to be displayed on the Active Info Display. New options include App Connect with MirrorLink, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless smartphone charger, keyless entry and a 300-watt sound system in conjunction with the aforementioned Beats model.

Safety kit has been expanded to include standard-fit Front Assist with City Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, semi-automated Park Assist, Driver Alert System and Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is again offered as an option, but it can now operate at speeds of 210 km/h and incorporates a Stop & Go function.

2018 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 – new photos released

Three 1.0 litre three-cylinder petrol engines will be offered at launch, including a base MPI naturally-aspirated mill in either 65 PS/95 Nm or 75 PS forms and a five-speed manual gearbox, or a 95 PS/175 Nm TSI turbocharged version optionally available with a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission.

By the end of the year, the range will be filled out to include a 115 PS/200 Nm version of the 1.0 TSI, plus a 150 PS/250 Nm 1.5 TSI four-pot with Active Cylinder Management (ACT) and a 200 PS/320 Nm 2.0 TSI in the GTI, all of which are available with either a six-speed manual or the DSG. Also to be offered is a 1.6 TDI turbodiesel in 80 PS/250 Nm and 95 PS forms, as well as a 90 PS/175 Nm 1.0 TGI natural gas engine.

As usual, the chassis sports MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a rear torsion beam with an anti-roll bar. A sports suspension is also available with a 15 mm lower ride height, which can optionally be coupled with adaptive dampers.


GALLERY: Volkswagen Polo Mk6
GALLERY: Volkswagen Polo Beats

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