Author:
Robin Roberts
Volkswagen is giving its Polo range some dressage treatment.
The launch of the Polo R Line builds on the specification of the Polo Match with unique styling touches inside and out.
Outside, the R Line is distinguished by a unique styling pack of deeper, sportier R Line front and rear bumpers, a black gloss radiator grille with R Line badging, deeper side sills and 16-inch ‘Mallory’ alloy wheels.
From the B-pillars back, the glass is dark-tinted and 65 per cent light-absorbing, while the standard front foglights also include a static cornering function. Step past the brushed aluminium scuff plates with R Line logos, and inside there are sports seats with ‘Kyalami’ cloth upholstery and an R Line logo on the headrests, along with a leather-trimmed three-spoke steering wheel with R Line logo and aluminium-capped pedals, while the roof lining is finished in black cloth.
Standard equipment is comprehensive, including an RCD 310 radio/CD player with six speakers and multi-device interface, for plugging in an iPod or other compatible device and ‘Climatic’ semi-automatic air conditioning.
The R Line is available with just one engine, the existing 1.2-litre 105 PS TSI petrol unit, with a six-speed manual gearbox. This engine propels the Polo R Line from zero to 62 mph in 9.7 seconds, and on to a top speed of 118 mph. Fuel consumption is 53.3 mpg on the combined cycle, and CO2emissions are 124 g/km.
Prices start at £15,195 on the road for the three-door model, rising to £15,815 for the five-door. The Polo R Line is expected in July.
Polo is popular with small fleet operators and is a firm favourite with any company car manager.
