The Volkswagen Polo ruled the Indian market for almost 12 years. During this time, it set a benchmark in its segment, especially for driving enthusiasts. Its solid German engineering and performance gave it a special identity.
Reasons for Discontinuation in India and Current Status:
Volkswagen stopped the production of the Polo because the company decided to focus on models like the Virtus sedan and Taigun SUV, based on the new platform (MQB A0 IN), as part of its ‘India 2.0’ strategy for India. Although a new generation model of the Polo was available in the global market, the Indian market continued to sell the older generation model with the same design.
As of today, you cannot buy a new Volkswagen Polo. If you want to buy a Polo, you will have to look at the second-hand market, where it is still in high demand and has good resale value.
Key Attractions of Volkswagen Polo (Based on the old model):
Some of the key features and highlights of the old Volkswagen Polo model that made it popular were:
Design and Build Quality: The Polo was known for its timeless design and solid build quality. Its “tank-like” build quality gave it a feeling of a safe and robust car.
Engine Options: In India, the Polo was offered with several engine options.
- 1.0-liter MPI Petrol Engine: This came in the base variant and provided adequate performance for everyday driving.
- 1.0-liter TSI Turbo-Petrol Engine: This generated 110 PS of power and 175 Nm of torque. This engine was very popular for its strong performance and fuel efficiency, especially in the GT TSI variant. It came with manual and automatic (torque converter) transmission.
Older diesel engines (1.5-liter TDI) were also available, but they were discontinued after BS6 emission norms.
Driving Dynamics: The Polo was famous for its excellent handling and stable ride quality. It felt very confident even on highways.
Safety: The Polo received a 4-star safety rating in the Global NCAP crash test (for variants with dual airbags), which was an excellent score at that time. It also featured safety features like ABS and EBD.
Features: Higher variants included features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Future of Volkswagen Polo:
Some reports and statements from Volkswagen India officials suggest that the possibility of relaunching the Polo brand in India is being considered. It might not return as a hatchback, but rather as a compact SUV or crossover, which would align with the increasing demand for SUVs in the Indian market.
Additionally, Volkswagen is planning to introduce a Polo-sized electric car (ID.2) in the global market by 2026. If Volkswagen expands its EV strategy in India, such an electric hatchback or crossover might also be seen in the Indian market in the future.
So, in simple terms, the new Volkswagen Polo is currently not available in India, but the possibility of this name returning remains, perhaps in a new avatar.