Volkswagen Polo; Kia Stonic; Hyundai Kona; BMW 6 Series GT; International Engine of the Year; BMW X3; Audi R8 Spyder; Mclaren 570S Spider
Volkswagen touts its sixth-generation Polo as the most advanced small car ever
BIGGER IS BETTER
Underpinned by the A0 version of Volkswagen’s MQB modular platform, the new Polo is considerably larger than its forebear. Length: 4 053 mm (+81 mm) Width: 1 751 mm (+69 mm) Wheelbase: 2 564 mm (+94 mm) Boot: 351 litres (+71 litres)
TECH APLENTY
It gets new technologies normally the preserve of larger models such as the Golf and Passat. These include front assist area-monitoring system (pedestrian detection and automated emergency braking as standard); adaptive cruise control (operational at speeds up to 210 km/h); blind-spot monitoring; optional adaptive dampers; and semiautomated parking. It will also feature updated versions of VW’S Active Info Display and infotainment systems.
MANY FLAVOURS
The firm’s existing Trendline, Comfortline and Highline trim standards will remain and be joined by a Beats edition (pictured) that features a 300 W audio system, 16-inch alloys, model-specific decals, velvet-red dash panel and sports seats with specially designed covers. Several packages, including an R-line option, will also be offered.
BENEATH THE BONNET
Petrol engines will include the 1,0-litre MPI (48 kw or 55 kw; five-speed manual gearbox), the new 1,5 TSI Evo (110 kw with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG), and a 1,0 TSI in two states of tune: 70 or 85 kw. Two 1,6 TDI versions with outputs of 59 and 70 kw will also be offered. The local engine lineup is yet to be confirmed.
AND THE GTI?
Featuring a 2,0-litre TSI powerplant with 147 kw, and offering the choice of manual or DSG, the GTI will better the outgoing 1,8litre car’s 6,7-second 0-100 km/h sprint time and 236 km/h top speed. Among its go-faster styling bits are a subtle roof spoiler, model-specific bumpers and skirts, honeycomb air vents, 17inch alloys and sports seats with the classic “Clark” tartan trim.
THE POLO GTI WILL FEATURE A 2,0-LITRE TSI ENGINE WITH 147 kw