Features / 10 October 2022 / Michael Taylor

Affordable sedans competing against the new VW Polo

The new VW Polo Sedan is now available in South Africa with a starting price of R318,300.

Local buyers have a choice of three different models – the standard unit, which uses a five-speed manual gearbox, and the Life model, which is available with a selection of either a manual or six-speed Tiptronic transmission.

Regardless of which model and gearbox are chosen, the Polo will be powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine delivering 81kW and 152Nm.

Fuel consumption will vary between transmissions, with the manual averaging 6.2l/100km while the automatic does a slightly higher 6.5l/100km on a combined cycle.

The performance also differs between the models chosen, as the manual has a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 11.2 while the automatic does a slower 12.2 seconds.

Looking at the Polo’s features, standard offerings on all models consist of LED headlamps, two-tone fabric upholstery, cruise control, a multifunction steering wheel, manual air conditioning, a 521-litre boot, and a 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The top-end Life specification will then add a chrome package on the grille, window strips, door handles, as well as a set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

Furthermore, it will have a larger 10-inch media display, automatic climate control, rear park distance control, an eight-speaker sound system, keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, and a rearview camera.

The Tiptronic additionally comes with paddle shifters and hill-start assist.