Racy R-Line-trimmed Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI launched in South Africa
Volkswagen South Africa has added a 1.0-litre TSI model to its Polo range. A precursory step towards a smaller-capacity engine range in the country, somewhat surprisingly, Volkswagen South Africa is only offering the Polo 1.0 TSI in sports-orientated R-Line trim.
Performance and parsimony
Retailing at R290,200 (VAT and emissions tax included), the Polo R-Line’s 999cc three cylinder engine develops 81kW/108bhp and posts a 0-62mph time of 9.3 seconds. Peak torque of 200Nm/148lb ft is available from 2,000 to 3,500rpm. Top speed is 197km/h or 122mph, while economy is quoted as 4.4 litres per 100km/64.2mpg. Performance and parsimony: it would appear the Volkswagen South Africa Polo R-Line has it all.
Key to that impressive fuel economy is a Stop/Start system paired to BlueMotion Technology with a battery regeneration system, as well as a standard seven-speed DSG transmission. Yes, that’s right, there is no manual version of the South African Polo R-Line. It’s interesting that the 1.0 TSI tiddler is only aimed at drivers of a ‘sporty’ bent (ie the young), in South Africa: in the UK Polos with this engine come in similar R-Line or ‘luxury’ SEL variants.
As with other markets, R-Line trim means a front fog lights, a logo-ed front grille, chrome exhaust pipe, ‘R-Line’ front and rear bumper, sill extensions, rear diffuser and spoiler body kit package as well as 17-inch ‘Serron’ alloy wheels, a common and attractive rim seen in Europe but hard to spot in the UK, as they are only available as an option on the Polo GTI.
Personalisation options
Inside, the South African Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI has a five-inch ‘Composition Colour’ touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth/USB and iPhone/iPod connectivity, fatigue detection warning system, ‘Cell’-trimmed sports front seats and a multifunction steering wheel. Personalisation options include an upgrade to a 5.8-inch ‘Composition Media’ infotainment system with App-Connect functionality as well as a ‘Light and Vision’ package (auto-dimming mirror, automatic headlights and wipers).
Over 155,600 fifth-generation Polo hatchbacks have been sold in South Africa since its launch in February 2010, and the multiple award-winner is the second best-selling car in the country. Only its Polo Vivo relation beats it. Available to order now, the Volkswagen South Africa Polo R-Line 1.0 TSI is offered with a 3-year/45,000km service plan, a 3-year/120,000km warranty in addition to a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals are 15,000km.