Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi Review & Pictures: Playful Polo


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350Z

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“Playful Polo”

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Note: This review only focuses on the changes in New Polo 1.5. General aspects about the car are already covered in-depth in our Polo GT TSi Review.

In a nation swarming with utmost number of white and silver colored vehicles, driving a one-off copper color car in itself is a matter of making oneself stand out of the crowd to make heads turn. That’s exactly what the Volkswagen Polo in its fresh avatar is all set to do. Volkswagen India may not have the busiest dealerships but the company has attempted to remain in the media limelight more often than not. In its latest move, the German Giant has presented the Polo with a much desirable upgrade making it a more wholesome package. The sweetest aspect is introduction of an assertive 1.5 liter diesel motor swapping the old 1.2L unit on both, regular as well as GT TDi variant. While rest of the changes are rather qualified to be labeled as mild, they've unmistakably taken an already premium hatch a notch above.

The exterior changes are subtle enough to deceive a casual observer at first glance even with old Polo parked beside. Yet there’s something that sure makes newer model feel a lot livelier. Premium Copper Orange exterior shade plays quite a significant role in enhancing the same, which makes a statement on its own without being loud. Just like sophisticated character of the Polo itself. On the design facet, Volkswagen has reworked on bumpers to complement car’s elegance. But what makes front bumper look rather chic is a neat stripe of chrome running across from end to end. On the other hand, rear bumper receives only a set of reflectors as an extra without any tinge of chrome. As a matter of fact, Volkswagen has (thankfully) kept use of chrome in check opposed to the current trend.

Therefore, it leaves Polo’s USP of understated appearance completely intact. Front grille now features out of the blue a single stroke of chrome at bottom instead of multiple chrome stripes in middle which most of us used to fancy. However, something that can be easily claimed as a welcome and most prominent change on the exteriors is the new sporty, smoked dual cluster headlamp set borrowed from European counterpart of the Polo. Side profile is absolutely unaffected, save for new 15” Tosa alloy wheels on Highline variant (Trendline receives 14” steel wheels with newly designed wheel covers). Similarly, there's hardly a noticeable difference on the rear-end. Although Volkswagen does insist us to believe those taillamps to be "new" (There’s a minute difference but far from being called new).

On the inside, Polo exudes the same amount of ruggedness and quality levels which is still a benchmark for most cars of this segment and above to achieve. Touching any panel instantly reciprocates a feel as if it’s built for the centuries to come. Overall dashboard layout is the same but what distinguishes it over previous model are the fine upmarket touches that take premiumness of this car to a new level. All-new high-end car like flat-bottomed steering wheel is leather wrapped and a total delight to hold. It’s rake as well as reach adjustable and features piano black finish and audio controls on both sides. The center console which was previously piano black now has an aluminum brushed tone that nicely complements the vivid combination of desert beige and black interiors.

The sweet-sounding audio system is Bluetooth, USB, Aux-in compatible and offers a dedicated memory card slot too. Interestingly, it can be turned on even if key is not inserted, reminding us of some Ford cars. As you’d have already figured out, looking for differences in the New Polo is much like a spot the difference game, whether inside or out. Yet another such difference is the multi-information display screen which is now a size bigger and illuminates in crystal white color instead of red, consequently, making it more legible during day and night time alike. Despite all the goodies, Volkswagen Polo still suffers from one major drawback in the segment. i.e. space. The wide windows help only to an extent but simply put, this car is awfully claustrophobic by nature.

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Undoubtedly the most exciting and obviously evident improvement in the Polo comes under its hood. In order to take advantage of the excise duty norms in India that cars less-than four meter length and upto 1500 CC engine benefit from, Volkswagen has gone ahead with a safe option to roll out the 1.5 liter TDi motor which is more or less the downsized 1.6L unit. Codenamed as EA189, this engine will be universally employed on Volkswagen India’s budget offerings that also include GT TDi, Cross Polo and Vento range. Needless to state, its sister brand, Skoda too is utilizing the same on revamped Rapid. To make the things more cost-effective, the company has decided to locally produce this engine after investment of Rs.250 crores for a separate assembly line at its state-of-the-art plant in Chakan, Pune.

New four-cylinder 1498 CC motor substitutes the old three-cylinder 1198 CC engine which pumped out 75 PS @ 4200 RPM and 179 Nm torque @ 2000 RPM. This translates into a noticeable boost in the performance. The 1.5L TDi naturally outperforms its counterpart by a 15 PS increase in power (90 PS @ 4200 RPM) and torque is amplified by healthy 51 Nm (230 Nm @ 1500 – 2000 RPM). While engine and performance statistics for Petrol version remains the same. The 1.2L MPi (Petrol) motor is a three-cylinder unit that churns 75 PS @ 5400 RPM and 110 Nm torque @ 3750 RPM. As obvious as it may sound, apparently on paper the fuel efficiency of diesel model is slightly compromised in lieu of bigger engine. The ARAI figure now stands at 20.14 Kmpl opposing 22.04 Kmpl earlier. But contrarily, we’ve heard some users in fact reporting a better mileage due to the enhanced torque. Petrol, on the other hand, delivers 16.47 Kmpl.

If you were annoyed by the excessive amount of noise in the outgoing Polo 1.2 TDi, I’m afraid, 1.5 TDi won’t please you either since it’s no exception in this case. The clatter is strong enough to make even a non car-guy realize it’s a diesel car. However, amount of vibration is now strictly limited inside the cabin once ignition is turned on. Good feelings come about when you tap that accelerator pedal. Thanks to optimized low-end torque, Polo stays enthusiastic from the beginning and tackling start-stop traffic is not a chore at all. The turbo lag is impeccably concealed and car to tends to hint responsiveness between 1500 – 1800 RPM onward. There’s no sudden surge after crossing the lag zone but a gentle tap on the accelerator beyond 2000 RPM on a freeway makes it a truly exhilarating experience.

Gosh. This is where all excitement begins. The mid-range, also known as fun-range in a Polo 1.5 (Pun-intended) provides a whack of thrust pushing the occupants back on their seat with a mere press of the throttle. Objects in the rear-view mirror of our test car literally disappeared at several instances when starting from a halt (well-within legal speed limit), thanks to quick and responsive acceleration. This li’l hatchback never hesitates to breach three digit speeds whenever instructed to and remains brilliantly rock stable. That’d easily suffice to put certain cars of an upper-segment to immediately run for a cover. The motor is glad to be revved for diesel engine standards and continues to build up the power until around 4500 RPM after which it slowly tapers off.

Slick-shift and short-throw gearshift is a cherry on the top but hard clutch pedal is not so. It needs getting used-to for those coming from cars with super-light clutch operation (read Hyundai). Volkswagen has also refined the suspension which does a terrific job of filtering out the poor road conditions. Polo doesn’t mind being handled rough. It stays pretty much composed but despite of being speed sensitive, steering is somewhat lighter for my liking. Braking, on the other hand, is impressive – justifying the insanity this car has to offer. The more I drive, the more I was getting addicted to this Polo. For that matter, there’s no good reason on earth why any driving enthusiast won’t. Given the performance of regular Polo 1.5, I’m thrilled to imagine what a rocket GT TDi is going to be. Stay tuned!
 
Thread Starter #2

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Likes, Dislikes and Report Card

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You'll Love: [thumbsup]
  • Modest, timeless design. This refresh makes it even more likable.
  • 1.5 TDi engine is a leap ahead in terms of refinement and performance.
  • To an extent, certain features in this upgrade clear the rough edges of Polo.
  • The quality levels which this car boasts are simply unparalleled, whether inside or out.
  • We extremely appreciate Volkswagen India for setting an example by offering airbags standard across all variants.
You'll Loathe: [thumbsdown]
  • Unnecessarily high amount of diesel engine noise is a disappointment for many.
  • The clutch pedal is hard. Makes continuous start-stop traffic driving a tiring affair.
  • Service and maintenance costs of Volkswagen India cars aren’t too pocket friendly.
  • The interiors could be quite of a nightmare for patients suffering from claustrophobia.
  • Although now a more lucrative package, it’s still not the most VFM hatch around. Buy it for sheer quality and driving pleasure.
Volkswagen Polo 1.5 Star Ratings:
  • Design and Quality.................:
    9.5.gif
  • Comfort and Features.............:
    eightstar.gif
  • Engine and Performance.........:
    9.5.gif
  • Handling and Ride Quality.......:
    9.5.gif
  • Safety and Security Levels......:
    9.5.gif
  • Overall Fuel Consumption.......:
    eightstar.gif
  • Sales and Service Network......:
    7.5.gif
  • Value For Money Factor..........:
    eightstar.gif
  • The Automotive India’s Verdict:
    ninestar.gif
Here's how to interpret above ratings: The Automotive India Reviews Star Ratings Explained.
 
Thread Starter #3

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Price, Misc Points, Related Links

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Price (Ex.showroom, Delhi):

Petrol
  • Trendline: Rs.5,00,000
  • Comfortline: Rs.5,59,000
  • Highline: Rs.6,09,000
Diesel
  • Trendline: Rs.6,29,000
  • Comfortline: Rs.6,89,000
  • Highline: Rs.7,39,000
Prices in Lakhs INR. Ex.showroom, New Delhi.

Miscellaneous Points:
  • Polo has received over six revisions in one form or another prior to this since its launch in India.
  • Volkswagen Polo was originally launched in 2010 in India. This facelift debuted on 15th July 2014.
  • The claimed mileage figure for GT TDi is 19.91 Kmpl while GT TSi delivers 17.2 Kmpl according to ARAI.
  • The GT variants (TDi and TSi) have already arrived at some VW dealerships. Launch will be happening shortly.
  • From my observation, I found the distance to empty reading of Polo’s MID much accurate than some other cars.
  • Among other premium features, this upgrade also offers footwell lamps that automatically turn on and off in sync with front doors.
  • The three year paint and six year anti-perforation warranty is standard across all Volkswagen India cars. A unique for this segment.
  • Two years and unlimited kilometers warranty is standard. Owners can also opt for extended 1 Year / 80,000 Kms or 2 Years / 1,00,000 Kms.
  • The service interval for Volkswagen Polo is 15,000 Kms or 1 Year. This includes a free inspection at 7,000 kms or 6 months, whichever is earlier.
  • There’s also a slight difference in dimensions of New Volkswagen Polo over the outgoing model. It is as follows:
  • Length: 3971 mm (New) | 3970 mm (Old)
  • Height: 1469 mm (New) | 1453 mm (Old)
  • Wheelbase: 2469 mm (New) | 2456 mm (Old)
  • Ground Clearance: 165 mm (New) | 168 mm (Old)
Related Links:
 
Thread Starter #4

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Specifications and Brochure

Comparison: Volkswagen Polo vs Hyundai i20 vs Maruti Swift vs Ford Figo vs Fiat Punto Evo

Specifications.png

Volkswagen Polo Specifications:

Petrol
  • Engine: 1198 CC, 3 Cylinders
  • Power: 75 PS @ 5400 RPM
  • Torque: 110 Nm @ 3750 RPM
  • Transmission: 5 Speed Manual
  • ARAI Fuel Efficiency: 16.47 Kmpl
Diesel
  • Engine: 1498 CC, 4 Cylinders
  • Power: 90 PS @ 4200 RPM
  • Torque: 230 Nm @ 1500 - 2500 RPM
  • Transmission: 5 Speed Manual
  • ARAI Fuel Efficiency: 20.14 Kmpl
General
  • Front Brakes: Discs
  • Rear Brakes: Drums
  • Front Suspension: McPherson Strut
  • Rear Suspension: Semi-independent Trailing Arms
  • Fuel Tank: 45 Liters
  • Boot Space: 294 Liters
  • Length: 3971 mm
  • Width: 1682 mm
  • Height: 1469 mm
  • Wheelbase: 2469 mm
  • Ground Clearance: 165 MM
  • Tyre Size: 175/70 R14 (Trendline) | 185/60 R15 (Comfortline & Highline)
Exterior Color Options:
  • Flash Red*
  • Night Blue
  • Reflex Silver
  • Candy White*
  • Carbon Steel
  • Copper Orange*
Asterisk (*) denotes our choice of colors.
 

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Thread Starter #5

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Videos

Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi Exterior Noise Levels (Hood Closed)

Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi Exterior Noise Levels (Hood Open)

Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi Interior Noise Levels (Idle)

New Volkswagen Polo TV Commercial
 
Thread Starter #6

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Pictorial Review

Small yet tough. That's Polo for you.



This fascia looks so chic. Doesn't it?



Front fog lamps equipped with cornering function on top-end Highline.



New Polo receives only a single chrome stripe on front grille in place of two.



A closer look at the 15" TOSA Alloys.



Bulb shield helps throwing an even amount of light across the beam.



Eyes to die for!

 
Thread Starter #7

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Pictorial Review

Keyless entry feature missing.



Side indicators still sit on the fenders.



ORVM doesn't shuts completely. As pointed out in past reviews, it leaves a major blind spot by design.



The roof is neatly
designed to form like an in-built spoiler.



Small quarter glass reduces the thickness of C-Pillar. Sometimes helps while reversing.



Taillamps look modest even in dark.



Only single reverse lamp. RHS taillamp accomodates the rear foglamp instead.



Unsuspicious place to slap the tyre pressure placard!



Rear bumper-integerated reflectors are new on refreshed Polo.



Something unexpected occurred after shutting the boot. It fixed tightly again nevertheless.



The hatch-door opens almost upright. Convenient.

 
Thread Starter #8

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Pictorial Review

Bigger 1.5L engine fits tight under the hood.



Nice attention to detail. Plastic covered lever for opening the hood avoids hurting the finger when it’s hot.



Extended cowl net would prevent the leaves from sticking on tight corners of hood if parked under a tree (My car terribly suffers from this issue).



Aluminum firewall insulation.



Brake fluid reservoir is situated a bit too deep.



Flat bottom steering wheel as usually seen on high-end cars.



Now both spokes of the steering wheel have controls.



Polo's clutch is relatively hard. The outward design of center console makes it slightly congested to keep the foot on dead pedal for a big-foot like me. :biggrin:



Push the gearlever and then move in first-gear like position to engage reverse.



New Polo's MID is bigger and white backlit making it more legible all the time.



The air circulation for each vent can be individually shut.



Instrument panel
features premium aluminum brushed finish. Audio system is Bluetooth, USB, Aux-in and memory card compatible.

 
Thread Starter #9

350Z

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Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Pictorial Review

Sufficient storage space for small items. This part of the car illuminates with a neat red ambience lighting in dark.



Front center armrest sorely missed. Nonetheless, center console offers useful storage room. Easily accessible by front and rear occupants alike.



Doors are as solid as a rock. So is the armrest. I ended up hurting the elbow after a while.



All four power windows are one-touch auto down. Equipped with useful anti-pinch feature too.



Nifty hook for the rear passengers.



Thick sunvisors radiate sheer quality. Vanity mirror on left while ticket holder available on right.



L-type rear headrests are new in Polo refresh. Somewhat improve visibility when no occupants sitting. Parking sensors come handy.



The rear seat feels most claustrophobic. Underthigh support is decent.



Fully beige upholstery makes the interiors look more inviting. Legroom isn’t the best but manageable.



Raised transmission tunnel hump is highly obtrusive for middle passenger.



Folding of rear seat is more of a formality when it comes to Polo.



Polo has one the largest boot space in its segment (294 Liters). Shocking that official spec sheet has nowhere mention of same.



Spare wheel is not an alloy and a size lower (175/70 R14) for Comfortline and Highline trims.



Volkswagen has done away with its name text badge. Only TDi label distinguishes the 1.5.



© TheAutomotiveIndia.com. Republishing the text or pictures anyway without prior consent of our authorities is strictly forbidden.
 
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Re: Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Review | Test Drive | Pictures

Nice & crisp review. Thanks for sharing.
We are more eager to get the next review on Vento / Rapid with the same powerplant.

Height: 1469 mm (New) | 1453 mm (Old)
Ground Clearance: 165 mm (New) | 168 mm (Old)
Increased Height & reduced GC? Who ate the added piece of metal? Just kidding.

Unsuspicious place to slap the tyre pressure placard!
Someone from VW misunderstood Air --> Gas --> Gasoline everything is same. [frustration]
 
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Re: Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Review | Test Drive | Pictures

Very nice and informative review, clear pictures and detailed description separate this review from rest. Polo TDI is a fantastic car and slowly and steadily it will surely establish itself here, I wish they do localisation of parts fast.

I am eagerly waiting for the automatic Vento will exchange my Polo with it in next couple of years.
 
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Thread Starter #14

350Z

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Re: Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Review | Test Drive | Pictures

Very nice and informative review, clear pictures and detailed description separate this review from rest.
Nice & crisp review. Thanks for sharing.
We are more eager to get the next review on Vento / Rapid with the same powerplant.
Thanks! Sure. More exciting reviews are lined up soon.

Excellent review @ 350Z as usual. Thanks for sharing
Thanks. Hope this review answered your queries. You seemed to be quite curious about the car earlier. Planning to book one?

Drive Safe,
350Z
 
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Re: Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDi: Review | Test Drive | Pictures

I agree that Polo is an enthusiast's car and fun to drive. But rear leg room is what put me off of Polo, which is otherwise Gem of a car IMO. If only Polo had better rear legroom, I will be be driving one now.

And it seems VW still not addressed this issue and for people like me, who very frequently use the rear seat, it is a big deal and with no choice, we are moving away from VW(apart from the not-so-good A.S.S)
 

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