Volkswagen Polo R will come more performance focused than Polo GTI; could receive a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine from Golf R
Volkswagen is probably working on a even high performance version of Polo that could come christened as Polo R. This hot hatch will be more performance focused compared to the current Polo GTI. However, the name of the car is yet to be finalised and the details about its launch is also under wrap.
Hinting about the car, Volkswagen’s chassis development chief Karsten Schebsdat has said that the German car brand could launch a more performance optimized version of the Polo GTI that kicks out 200 hp of peak power. This could be possible as the chassis of the new Polo is capable to stay stable even in high speed cornering. Clearly, Volkswagen has a chance to develop a new iteration of the popular premium hatchback.
Also read: India-Bound 2018 Volkswagen Polo – All You Need To Know
Speculation about a Volkswagen Polo with R badge is nothing new and Schebsdat’s comment comes in line with that. While the car major is tight lipped about the details of this probably high performance Polo, it could be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine from Golf R.
This turbocharged engine will certainly be re-tuned to kick out less power than the Golf R, as launching a more affordable hot hatch with similar power output will affect both Golf GTI and Golf R’s sales. Apart from that, the Polo R could also benefit from the 4WD drivetrain layout from the Golf R instead of being equipped with the FWD layout of Polo GTI.
Also read: Most Awaited Upcoming Cars Launching Very Soon in India
While launching the Polo R model will certainly boost Volkswagen’s sales, it is not sure if Indian market will receive this car. However, considering the fact that Volkswagen is aiming to become the affordable premium car brand in domestic market and also eyeing greater market share, we can hope that it will arrive here post global launch.
The Volkswagen Polo R will be based on the all-new Polo that is ready to launch in India this year. It has become sharper and more stylish with not only design, but features as well. The car takes design inspiration from its bigger sibling Volkswagen Golf.
Source: Autocar