Affordable sedans competing against the new VW Polo

The sedans
Honda Amaze 1.2 Comfort auto
Kia Pegas 1.4 EX auto
Suzuki Ciaz 1.5 GLX auto
Nissan Almera 1.5 Acenta auto
Toyota Corolla Quest 1.8 Plus auto
Fiat Tipo sedan 1.4

The new VW Polo Sedan is now available in South Africa with a starting price of R318,300.

Local buyers have a choice of three different models – the standard unit, which uses a five-speed manual gearbox, and the Life model, which is available with a selection of either a manual or six-speed Tiptronic transmission.

Regardless of which model and gearbox are chosen, the Polo will be powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine delivering 81kW and 152Nm.

Fuel consumption will vary between transmissions, with the manual averaging 6.2l/100km while the automatic does a slightly higher 6.5l/100km on a combined cycle.

The performance also differs between the models chosen, as the manual has a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 11.2 while the automatic does a slower 12.2 seconds.

Looking at the Polo’s features, standard offerings on all models consist of LED headlamps, two-tone fabric upholstery, cruise control, a multifunction steering wheel, manual air conditioning, a 521-litre boot, and a 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The top-end Life specification will then add a chrome package on the grille, window strips, door handles, as well as a set of 16-inch alloy wheels.

Furthermore, it will have a larger 10-inch media display, automatic climate control, rear park distance control, an eight-speaker sound system, keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, and a rearview camera.

The Tiptronic additionally comes with paddle shifters and hill-start assist.