The next-generation Volkswagen Polo is coming in the second half of 2017, reports AutoExpress, along with other details of the upcoming premium hatchback. The next-generation Polo will be built on VW Group’s new MQB platform, which already underpins a variety of cars including the latest generations of the Skoda Superb and the Audi TT. However, the Polo will be based on the smallest version of the said, modular platform, called the MQB A0. Size wise, the new Polo is expected to remain the same, but crucially, the current 2,470 mm wheelbase is expected to be stretched by 90 mm. This will open up more space inside the cabin, particularly for rear occupants.
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While styling will be all-new, yet evolutionary, the interiors will be completely re-designed as well, apart from being more feature rich than ever. The report says that Volkswagen is aiming to trump rivals on interior quality, space, infotainment and connectivity with its next-generation Polo. Which means that all but the base variant will feature a touchscreen-equipped infotainment system with smartphone connectivity and app integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The largest touchscreen, that’ll appear in the range topping variants, is expected to be as big as 9.5-inches. Other features would include a fully digital instrument cluster and built-in Internet access.
As for power, the next-generation Polo is mostly expected to employ by a range of low-capacity, turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, apart from a rumoured mild hybrid power-train. However, proceedings are believed to begin with VW’s 1.0-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine, good for around 75 bhp. It’ll be followed by a couple of turbocharged versions of the same engine, producing around 100 bhp and 115 bhp respectively. Further up will be an all-new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine that’s said to be offered in two states of tune, with around 140 bhp from one and 160 bhp from the other. A 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine is also on the cards, in 90 bhp, 110 bhp and 130 bhp states of tune. While six-speed manual transmissions should be standard across the range, a seven-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission will be optional with some engines.
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The next-generation Volkswagen Polo will be followed by a compact crossover based on the same, which has already been already previewed by the T-Cross Breeze Concept earlier this year. Although the concept was a convertible with a soft top, the production version will be conventional hard topped crossover, although an open topped version based on the same is rumoured. SEAT and Skoda will also launch their own small crossovers based on the same at a later date. Going by the timeline, the all-new Volkswagen Polo is expected in India sometime in 2018.
Source: AutoExpress