The Facelifted New Polo Finally Lands in Japan | Volkswagen

Volkswagen Polo

Facelifted New Polo Finally Arrives in Japan

Volkswagen Group Japan has updated its compact hatchback, the Polo, with features such as class-leading safety and comfort equipment, and sales begin today.

Text by OHTO Yasuhiro

Model Change Aims for Enhanced Safety and Quality

Volkswagen's compact hatchback, thePolohas undergone its first model change in five years. This update introduces a newly developed TSI engine and a host of advanced safety features.

All models now come standard with class-first features including the "Front Assist Plus" pre-crash braking system, which uses millimetre-wave radar to detect vehicles ahead and warns of collision risks, mitigating or avoiding impacts, and the "Multi Collision Brake" system to prevent secondary collisions, as well as a driver fatigue detection system.

Additionally, "Adaptive Cruise Control," which monitors the distance to the vehicle ahead using radar and automatically adjusts it, and a "Rear View Camera" that displays the rear view on the in-car monitor when reverse gear is selected, are now available for the first time. Of course, basic safety features from the previous model, such as 6 airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESP), and Emergency Stop Signal, have been retained.

As mentioned, the powertrain features a newly developed 1.2-liter TSI engine. This DOHC 4-valve unit is lighter and more compact than its predecessor. While its maximum output of 90 ps (66 kW) is modest, its maximum torque of 160 Nm is easily manageable, available from a low 1,400 rpm thanks to turbocharging.

Combined with a 7-speed DSG, an idling stop system, and a brake energy regeneration system, it achieves a fuel economy of 22.2 km/ℓ (JC08 mode), a 5% improvement over the previous generation.

Volkswagen Polo

Facelifted New Polo Finally Arrives in Japan (2)

The New Polo Approaches the Golf

One of the Polo's defining characteristics, its compact 5-number size, remains unchanged from the previous model, ensuring excellent usability. The design features a completely new front fascia. The exterior boasts redesigned front grille, front and rear bumpers, headlights, and taillights, with added chrome accents for a more premium appearance.

Inside, theGolf's type of steering wheel and instrument cluster have been adopted. Chrome accents on the door trims and the integration of other premium features enhance the overall sense of quality. The seat design is also new.

The model lineup consists of the "Polo TSI Comfortline," equipped with a 1.2-liter TSI engine and a 7-speed DSG, and the "Polo TSI Comfortline Upgrade Package," which includes premium features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, alloy wheels, and a rearview camera as standard.

According to Volkswagen, future plans include the sequential introduction of other models starting this autumn, such as the sporty "Polo BlueGT" and the crossover "Cross Polo," in addition to the "Polo TSI Comfortline".