Volkswagen Polo (2021) – Back to Basics

Volkswagen Polo 1.0 MPI 80 hp – €19,990

To start with, Volkswagen uses a different name for the basic Polo. In other words: the brand no longer uses a name for the basic Polo, because it is now simply called ‘Polo’ instead of Polo Trendline. The policy regarding that entry-level version does not change anything, because this is still the only Polo that you can get with the turbo-less 1.0 MPI engine with 80 hp. The seller will therefore always push you in the direction of the 1.0 TSI with 95 hp, simply because there is much more choice in versions. Incidentally, it is possible to combine the simplest trim level with that turbo engine, but always together with a manual gearbox.

When we open the Polo configurator, it is noticeable that the external differences between the regular versions and the previously much thicker-looking R-Line have become a lot smaller. For example, all versions basically share the same front bumper, although the R-Line has a somewhat sportier-looking fencing. With the new front bumper, the standard Polo looks a bit more confident than before, although the absence of fog lamps makes it clear that this is not really a thick Polo. In addition, we get 15-inch steel with hubcaps as usual. New: LED headlights (including low beam!) and LED taillights are standard. On more expensive versions, a more luxurious headlight type is available as an option, including a continuous LED strip in the grille.

There is also some news to report in terms of color. For example, the ‘free’ Ascot Gray is new, so your back-to-basics Polo will look noticeably different from the black one from before.

In the multimedia area, the Polo has made a big step. That is, if you don’t want to check any option. The digital instrumentation, which was previously an option, is now standard. A touchscreen is that too, but that was also the case with the ‘old’ Trendline. Strikingly enough, the new one with 15.5 centimeters is just one centimeter smaller. App-Connect, the name Volkswagen uses for Android Auto and Apple Carplay, is unfortunately not included in the base price. Too bad, because that would immediately make the screen a lot more useful.

However, the biggest addition in terms of comfort, and perhaps for the basic Polo in general, is the air conditioning. Previously, it was only standard from the Comfortline, now always. Unfortunately, that does not yet apply to cruise control, but with €190, the additional cost is not too bad. In any case, the interior looks a lot less bare because Volkswagen now mounts a multifunctional steering wheel, i.e. with buttons, as standard. Also in the door you get some buttons, because although Volkswagen that is not explicitly named, the rear windows now seem electrically operable.

A new entry-level Polo is certainly no longer a punishment and we see some pleasant additions to the basic equipment. The most striking features in this area are the air conditioning and LED lighting. However, you also pay for it, because with just under 20 mille, even the simplest Polo is no bargain. The Trendline that appeared in this section in 2018 was significantly cheaper at the time at €16,151.