Volkswagen Polo: entry-level hatch re-joins local line-up

Words: Andrew Sluys

Volkswagen New Zealand has brought a fan favourite in the Polo back to its line-up for 2026. 

The Polo hasn’t been offered in New Zealand by Volkswagen since May 2022, when they announced they would stop selling it once stock had cleared. 

It’s unclear what changed Volkswagen’s mind on the Polo, but it has just recently landed in local dealerships. 

Priced at $39,990, the Polo has re-joined the line-up in its latest iteration, and is offered exclusively in MY27 ‘Life’ trim. 

At this price point, it almost matches what the range-topping Polo GTI cost in 2022, and is a significant amount more than what the entry level Polo TSI was back then.

It’s powered by a three-cylinder turbocharged 1.0-litre engine that produces 85kW and 200Nm of torque.

This is sent exclusively to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

On the outside, standard kit includes a set of 15-inch alloy wheels, and local buyers have the choice of nine paint options. 

Moving inside, it gets cloth seats with manual adjustment, and an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. 

There’s also a wireless phone charging pad, and a six-speaker sound system. 

It’s also fitted with adaptive cruise control as standard, plus lane-keep assist and parking assist systems. 

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