ഫോക്‌സ്‌വാഗൺ പോളോ 2013-2015 1.5 TDI comfortline

Volkswagen India, the fully owned subsidiary of the German auto major has officially rolled out the facelifted version its premium hatchback, Polo in the car market. This newest model gets major updates to its exterior, interiors and specifications as well. The diesel versions are now equipped with a new 1.5-litre, TDI motor that is mated with a five speed manual gearbox. It has the ability to produce a peak power of 88bhp in combination with a mammoth torque output of 230Nm. It comes in three trim levels among which, the Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDI Comfortline is the entry level variant. This trim has all the standard comfort and safety aspects including central locking system, manually operated AC unit, opening and closing of windows with remote key and electronic engine immobilization device with floating code. Its gets a slightly tweaked headlight cluster, radiator grille, a brand new bumper and redesigned fog lamps. At the same time, its interiors too have been refined with flat-bottomed steering wheel, updated dashboard and central console. It will now lock horns with the likes of Maruti Swift, Hyundai i20, Nissan Micra and Chevrolet Sail UVA in the automobile market. This newest version comes with a standard warranty of 2-years (unlimited kilometres), which is an attractive deal.

Exteriors:

This latest model comes with a refreshing new look owing to its modified exterior features. To start with the front profile, it gets a refined new bumper that is designed with a pronounced air intake section. It is also fitted with newly designed fog lamps, which provides better visibility ahead. Above this, the radiator grille is now fitted with three horizontally positioned slats that are affixed with a company's logo. Surrounding this grille is the new smoked design headlight cluster that is powered by high intensity halogen headlamps and turn indicators as well. Coming to the sides, its gets redesigned wheel arches that are further equipped a with conventional set of 15-inch steel wheels. These rims have full wheel covers and are covered with tubeless radial tyres. The door handles and external wing mirrors are in body color, while the window sills and B pillars are in black. Its rear profile is also updated with a slightly tweaked tailgate that is decorated with chrome inserts and stylish 'VW' badge . The rear bumper gets an expressive new design and is affixed with a pair of reflectors. This hatchback has a total length of 3971mm along with an overall width of 1682mm and with a decent height of 1469mm. Its has a large wheelbase of 2469mm and a generous ground clearance of 165mm.

Interiors:

The Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDI Comfortline trim gets a refurbished internal cabin that is done up with a beige and black color scheme. Its gets a refined dashboard and central console that are made up of high quality scratch resistant material. The central console is decorated with extensive amount of brushed metallic inserts, which gives a luxuriant look to the interiors. Additionally, there is chrome finish on door handles, steering wheel, AC vent surround and on instrument cluster rings as well. Now, this latest hatchback gets a flat-bottomed steering wheel with three spokes that has piano black surround. Its seats are ergonomically designed wherein the driver's seat has height adjustment facility, while its rear seats have 60:40 split folding function. Apart from these, there are several utility features provided inside like mobile charging facility, cup holders, glove box unit, bottle holders, storage pockets, grab handles and sun visors. This hatchback has 280 litre boot volume along with 45 litre fuel storage capacity.

Engine and Performance:

This latest version of Polo is powered by a new 1.5-litre, TDI diesel engine that is incorporated with direct fuel injection system. It is based on double overhead camshaft valve configuration with four cylinders and 16-valves that displaces 1498cc . This motor is further incorporated with a variable geometry turbocharger that helps it to develop a maximum power of 88bhp at 4200rpm and generates a peak torque output of 230Nm between just 1500 to 2500rpm. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gearbox that helps to improve fuel efficiency. It takes only about 13 to 14 seconds to break the 100 Kmph mark and can achieve a top speed of approximately 160 Kmph.

Braking and Handling:

This vehicle is blessed a proficient braking system in the form of front ventilated discs and rear drum brakes. Its front axle is fitted with McPherson Strut along with a stabilizer bar , whereas the rear axle is fitted with semi-independent trailing arm system. This hatchback is also integrated with an electronic power assisted steering that is integrated with a speed sensitive function and supports a minimum turning radius of 4.97-meters.

Comfort Features:

This comfort features includes a 12V accessory power socket in front central console, three grab handles, ashtray, parcel tray and luggage compartment lamp. It also has an air conditioning system with dust and pollen filter, power steering with telescopic adjustment, central locking system, driver's side sun visor with ticket holder and all four power windows with one touch up and down function. This entry level variant is also blessed with an advanced RCD 220 music system that includes USB connectivity, AUX-In socket and an SD card slot. Furthermore, this variant has a remote key for opening and closing of windows, electrically adjustable outside mirrors and a multi-function display.

Safety Features:

This Volkswagen Polo 1.5 TDI Comfortlinetrim has been incorporated with crucial safety features. It has airbags for front passengers, height adjustable head restraints, day and night inside rear view mirror, 3-point ELR seat belts , high mount third brake light and emergency exit facility. Additionally, it has features like pinch guard protection for all four windows and fog lights. It is also integrated with an advanced electronic engine immobilization device including floating code that safeguards the vehicle from unauthorized access.

Pros:

1. Interior and exterior appearance is stylish.

2. Power and mileage of the new diesel is satisfying.

Cons:

1. Price range can be made competitive.

2. Ground clearance is too low.