Revised Polo saloon for India and Russia: new Vento and Polo Sedan unveiled
Following last year’s Polo hatchback refresh, Volkswagen Russia and India have unveiled new versions of their respective Polo Sedan and Vento saloon models. Based on the fifth-generation Polo hatchback, both cars are effectively the same and feature exterior and interior enhancements.
More presence
A new Passat-esque front grille makes more of an impression at the front of the car, while reprofiled headlamps (bi-xenon and LED on the Russian car) and a more muscular-looking bumper with chrome flourishes add more presence.
The rear receives a new bumper, too, while the tail lamps also undergo minor surgery with LED inserts. New alloy wheel designs finish off the exterior revamp, while inside a new three-spoke steering wheel, centre console and upholstery mark out the new models.
The Polo Sedan’s engine range is unchanged, with a 1.6-litre engine in 84bhp and 103bhp states of tune providing the motive power. Five-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearboxes (the Vento has one more ratio) are once again available.
The Indian-made Vento meanwhile gets a choice of 103bhp 1.2-litre TSI and 1.6-litre petrol engines, as well as a locally-assembled 103bhp 1.5 TDI unit. Fuel consumption is said to be increased by 7.5 per cent.
Russian and Indian cars come in the traditional Volkswagen European Trendline, Comfortline and Highline trim levels. Standard kit includes air-conditioning, electric windows, central locking and front airbags. Indian cars receive a chilled glovebox, cruise control, as well as electrically-folding mirrors.
On sale later this month, the Polo Sedan will be built at VW’s Kaluga factory for the local market. The refreshed Vento will be manufactured at Volkswagen India’s Pune plant for domestic consumption. We assume the similar South African Polo Saloon will undergo the same raft of changes very soon.
[Source: Indian Autos Blog]
