What we know!

A pioneer in its class, the Polo has been a stand out for decades, a vehicle that embodies all things timeless. Affordable and with more than 20 million vehicles sold in six generations, the Polo has strongly established itself as one of the most successful models in its class.

The Polo features state-of-the-art technology and fair pricing when it comes to performance, and through the years has been a family car where driving pleasure is a given.

Based on the Audi 50, the Polo, in slightly modified form, went into series production in Wolfsburg as the VW Polo, and was quick to enliven the small-car segment. Thanks to its clean design and high functionality, the Polo met the spirit of the times, all things efficient, practical and affordable. Characterized by agility and strong handling, the Polo has been a true success story.

Though the generations, the car has developed, with the Polo II in 1981 featuring a number of upgrades, including more space and comfort as well as a modernized engine. Later in 1987, the limited special series Polo Coupe GT G40 saw the debut of the scroll-type supercharger, which provided more power. In 1994 and in its third generation, more technology was put in place. The Polo III was one of the first vehicles in its class with innovative safety features, most notably airbags. In 1998, the Polo was available for the first time as a GTI, and thanks to a boost in size, the fourth generation presented a whole new level of comfort and safety in 2002. There were front and side airbags, power steering and ABS as standard.

Then the Polo V and its introduction of a host of digital innovations came on the horizon, beginning in 2009, with infotainment and assistance systems resulting in a more comfortable drive than ever before. The Polo V also impressed in motorsport, with the Polo R WRC cinching the top spot in the World Rally Championship four times in a row from 2013.

In its sixth generation, the Polo was based on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) and set new standards in 2017 when it came to connectivity, safety and driving dynamics. In 2021, the Polo became more digital and innovative, and overall was a vehicle that competed wonderfully with those higher-vehicle classes.

Now, in its anniversary year, VW Classic is accompanying the Polo and will also be presenting historic models from its own collection in the coming months. This will be made clear at the Bremen Classic Motorshow where things kick off Jan. 31 to Feb. 2. There, an Oceanic Blue Polo L from 1975 and a unique hill climb Polo from 1977 will be presented.

The path to becoming an icon has been paved by the tenants of affordability, style and technology, with the Polo securing its true identity through the iterations. More affordable than the Golf, the Polo has brought fresh energy to the small-car segment thanks to its compact design, practical features and economical performance.

Since the beginning, it has met the needs of a wide range of drivers, serving as not only a sporty option for enthusiasts, but also a reliable family vehicle at a good price point.

A lightweight design through the year, modernized engines, more space and a commitment to safety from being the first ever in its class to offer airbags, the Polo was built on the success of its predecessors.

Take a nostalgic look back at what was truly a storied history. From performance to comfort and everything in between, small, but oh so mighty has never looked this good! See the influence of this vehicle through the decades and what a total package is all about!