In detail, the restyling of the Volkswagen Polo VI was not so shy

Sunday 24th November 2024 06:29 AM

It is an understatement to say that the “Ant” is a success for Volkswagen since it sold more than 14 million copies when this sixth generation appears in September 2017.

To give herself every chance of continuing like this, she is pulling out all the stops. Thanks to the MQB A0 platformit grows significantly (4.05 m) and offers a lot of space for passengers, the dashboard allows for a few little fantasies with colored veneers and technology makes its entrance via the digital instrument cluster (Active Info Display), but also the adaptive cruise control, or even pedestrian detection, blind spots, keyless starting, etc.

The Polo offers a wide range of engines. In gasoline, it has the naturally aspirated 1.0 MPI of 65 and 75 hp, and the 1.0 TSI of 95 and 115 hp. In diesel, the 1.6 TDI is available in two powers: 80 and 95 hp. Note that the dual-clutch automatic transmission DSG7 is available with engines of 95 hp or more.

The equipment levels are fewer, but the equipment is worthy of the higher segment at the time. Entry level Trendline is equipped with LED daytime running lights, fatigue detection, Bluetooth, cruise control and the 6.5-inch touch screen.

The level Confortline adds the 15-inch alloy wheels, the two-part folding bench seat, the refrigerated glove box, the air conditioning, the multimedia system with the 8-inch touch screen…

We enter the high end with the finish Carat : automatic air conditioning, parking sensors, LED headlights, heated front seats… The R-Line level focuses more on sportiness with 17-inch rims, specific rocker panels and spoiler.

Finally, the Carat Edition brings up the rear with digital instrumentation, reversing camera, induction charging, adaptive cruise control and dark-tinted windows.

The Polo wouldn’t quite be the Polo without the GTi version. It was presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2017 and claims 200 hp and 320 Nm of torque thanks to its supercharged 2.0 l. Great values that can be combined with a manual or automatic transmission.

The series Connectwell extended across the Volkswagen range, arrives on the Polo in July 2018. Based on the Conforline level, it adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, specific upholstery, “Connect” badges and even 16-inch alloy wheels.

A month later, it is the turn of the Copper Line to enter with a larger endowment. Based on the Carat, it also offers sports upholstery, a reversing camera, dark-tinted windows and Copper Line edging.

You have to wait until November 2019 for the 1.5 TSI de 150 ch makes its appearance. It arrives in a special R-Line edition with a specific sporty look as well as additional equipment (adaptive cruise control, reversing camera, etc.).

In June 2020, the Polo restricted the choice by abandoning diesel. The 1.6 TDI then becomes unavailable. Then Volkswagen again launches a special series Edition based on the entry-level Active. It therefore receives air conditioning, the front central armrest, two USB-C sockets at the rear…

The April 2021 restyling

Volkswagen Polo VI (phase 1)

Volkswagen Polo VI (phase 2)

After four years of service, the Polo is entitled to an update. It of course concerns the aesthetics which we detail below, but also the equipment with the adoption of a digital instrument cluster of 10.25 inches and the touch screen reaching 9.2 inches. It also receives Travel Assist, adaptive cruise control combined with lane keeping assistance, matrix LED headlights. Note that a new airbag is added between the front passengers.

Under the hood, however, nothing new, apart from the return of the GTi version who had disappeared. Finally, the range benefits from new names: Life, Style and R-Line.

Since then, the range has changed very little, but that could change. Indeed, this Polo will have to play the extensions despite a cessation of its production in Europe last September. Volkswagen, like other manufacturers, has reviewed its product strategy in the face of average sales of electric models. Since this Polo could remain in the catalog until the end of the decade, a new restyling is far from being ruled out.

Restyling in pictures

In order to visualize the developments, here are the differences in images. You will find “phase 1” on the left (top on mobile) and “phase 2” on the right (bottom on mobile).

This generation of Volkswagen Polo has particularly tense features which give it a somewhat strict appearance.

It is not easy at first glance to identify the Polo phase 2, especially on the front part. However, this shield is special to him.

The fog lamp of phase 1 can be seen from a distance, minus the wave-shaped light signature.

This light signature evolves and above all can be extended onto the grille. Also note this simpler shield which depends on the finish.

The lights are in a single part and the light signature appears to be very elaborate on phase 1.

The elements split into two parts in phase 2. This is the most striking element, even if the signature also evolves.

The Volkswagen Polo has always remained wise and this generation is no exception to the rule.

The headlights extend generously onto the tailgate and the reflectors migrate onto the bumper.

Everything is in its place and the ergonomics are perfect. Note that Volkswagen tried color, a good initiative.

In addition to the appearance of the digital instrument panel, the steering wheel has also evolved, as have the air conditioning controls.

The restyling in pictures of the R-Line version

Large rims, more “open” shield, the R-Line plays sporty.

As with the phase, the shield is specific to the R-Line with more aggressive treatment on this phase 2.

Of course, the chrome cannulas at the bottom of the shield are fake.

They split into two parts on this phase 2 and the Polo lettering migrates to the center of the tailgate.