Driven: New 2019 Volkswagen Polo
If South Africa had to have a national car, it would most likely be the Volkswagen Polo. In fact, Volkswagen SA was so confident at its launch in 2018 that they estimated to sell no less than 23,000 units that year. They actually got really close to their target, managing to sell 21,822 units at the end of 2018. We got to spend a week with the Polo Beats Edition to see what it was like to live with.
The first change that many will notice is the exterior, which is now 7mm lower, 69mm wider and 81mm longer than its predecessor thanks to Volkswagens MQB-platform which underpins the new Polo. The fast C-pillar gives the car a smoother silhouette, and the new lines around the car give it a wider stance. The result is a rather sporty exterior, which is only complemented further by the new LED headlights and taillights. Practicality has also been addressed by extending the wheelbase by 94mm, providing passengers with impressive legroom as well as an increased boot capacity of 70-litres – a 25% upgrade from the predecessor.
Five derivatives are available, namely the Conceptline, Trendline, Comfortline and Highline, with the Polo GTI sitting at the top of the range. Our test unit was the decently specced Comfortline model. Customers will also be able to choose from two optional design packages; the Polo Beats and the Polo R-line package. The Beats package includes a unique bonnet stripe, sporty seats, a funky red and white interior and a powerful 300W sound system.
The Polo is available with the infotainment screen from the Golf, available in 6,5” or 8”. This system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as voice control. Our test unit was equipped with analogue dials but the adaptive digital instrument cluster is also available as an option, giving the hatch a premium touch. The interior strikes a great balance between spacious and cosy, while the infotainment system worked as flawlessly expected from a VW. The overall build quality of the interior is on par with the Golf Mk7,5.
The biggest update to the new Polo comes in the form of safety. A new radar, optical and ultrasonic sensor work in unison to provide the driver with driving aids like parallel park assist, front and rear park distance control, blind spot detection, rear traffic alert and a handy reverse camera.
In terms of performance, the 1,2-litre TSI that we’ve come to love on the previous Polo has been swapped out for a 1,0-litre three-cylinder TSI engine. Displacement may have been reduced, but output has increased. The Comfortline is tuned for 70kW and 175Nm, paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Aside from the occasional dead zone taking off in first, one would be hard-pressed to notice that you’re driving a 1.0-litre vehicle. The engine needs a bit of a push to get going, but once it does its smooth sailing from there. The turbo lag has been reduced and the drive is a lot smoother compared to its predecessor. The car also feels light and nimble on the road, considering that it’s wider and slightly lower.
The new Volkswagen Polo is all grown-up and is worthy of the ‘baby Golf’ title. It’s comfortable, agile and efficient, and the Polo Beats adds an extra dimension of character and flair, as well as a great sound system to an already good car. No surprise as to why its South Africa’s second best-selling passenger car, with the Polo Vivo taking the top spot.
Also worth a look: the Volkswagen Golf and the Volkswagen Touareg.
FAQ
Q: What does the 2019 Volkswagen Polo Beats cost in South Africa?
The 2019 Volkswagen Polo Beats package is available as an optional upgrade on the Comfortline and Highline models, with pricing starting from around R285,000 for the Comfortline Beats and R315,000 for the Highline Beats, depending on the engine choice and additional options.
Q: Is the 2019 Volkswagen Polo Beats worth buying?
The 2019 Polo Beats is absolutely worth buying if you want a stylish, well-built hatchback with proper tech and that brilliant 300W sound system, plus you get Volkswagen's legendary build quality and excellent resale value in South Africa.
Q: What engine options are available in the 2019 Volkswagen Polo?
The 2019 Polo range offers a 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine producing 70kW, a 1.5-litre TSI with 110kW, and a 1.6-litre TDI diesel option with 59kW, with the GTI topping the range at 147kW from its 2.0-litre TSI engine.
Q: How much boot space does the 2019 Volkswagen Polo have?
The 2019 Polo offers 351 litres of boot space, which is a massive 70-litre increase over the previous generation and makes it one of the most practical hatchbacks in its class for South African families.
Q: What's included in the Volkswagen Polo Beats package?
The Polo Beats package includes a distinctive bonnet stripe, sporty seats with red accents, a funky red and white interior theme, and most importantly, a powerful 300W Beats Audio sound system that will make your daily commute much more enjoyable.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should definitely buy the 2019 Volkswagen Polo Beats if you're after the best premium hatchback under R320,000 in South Africa. The Polo Beats combines Volkswagen's rock-solid build quality with genuinely cool styling touches and that fantastic 300W sound system that puts most luxury cars to shame. With 351 litres of boot space, excellent fuel economy, and the peace of mind that comes with VW's dealer network, the Polo Beats is the smart choice for anyone wanting a hatchback that's both practical and fun. Just be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege, as this is definitely not the cheapest option in the segment, but the quality and resale value make it worth every rand.
