Thursday 23rd January 2014

VW confirms Polo R

4WD and 250hp for definite and a DSG looks likely for the Polo flagship

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It was inevitable really, wasn't it? First there was the Polo R WRC limited edition, then the WRC success and recently the news that Audi will build an S1. So no prizes for guessing that there will be a Polo R production model in the VW line-up soon.

More hp than a Golf GTI and less weight? Hmm

Most of the spec is fairly predictable too. It will use the EA888 2.0-litre turbo from the Golf GTI and R with a six-speed DSG likely. The drives of a prototype are currently hinting at around 250hp and 258lb ft, the latter identical to every EA888-engined VW so far from 220hp Golf to 280hp Leon Cupra.

The biggest surprise comes from the suspension; thanks to the inclusion of 4WD, a multi-link rear suspension has been devised to replace the torsion beam used in every other Polo. According to Autocar's prototype drive, it adds some agility to the Polo's chassis.

The Polo R could join the Audi S1 in making its debut at Geneva in March but nothing has been finalised yet. Autocar has suggested it will cost around £21,000 which seems a bit optimistic given a three-door GTI is £19,730. Presumably it would have to be significantly under the £26,125 the Golf GTI starts at to avoid cannibalising any sales of the bigger car. And with the Polo R significantly more powerful than the brilliant Fiesta ST, could it spur Ford into creating the much rumoured Fiesta RS?

[Source: Autocar]

[paulmaurice99]

Very much want one! No way it will be 21k, because so long as it undercuts the Golf R VW will be comfortable. It's unlikely to hit Golf GTI sales very much.