New 2022 Volkswagen Polo: What’s changed?

New 2022 Volkswagen Polo: What’s changed?

An updated version of VW’s supermini brings greater tech than ever

Volkswagen has had some hugely successful cars over the years and high up that list is the Polo.

Across the generations, more than 18 million have been produced, and sales show no signs of slowing as it remains one of the best-selling small cars around. But keen to make sure it isn’t overshadowed by newer rivals, Volkswagen is back with a facelift that brings with it a raft of changes. 

But what exactly has changed? Let’s take a look…

New driver assistance technology brings semi-automated driving

The Polo has always managed to offer a ‘big car feel’ in a more compact package and this latest version is no exception to that rule. 

But key to this update is new semi-automated driving functions that are typically only found in far larger and more expensive cars. The feature, known as ‘IQ.Drive Travel Assist’ essentially combines adaptive cruise control with lane assist to enable this greater level of driver assistance. You can also get Matrix LED headlights on the Polo for the first time, being one of very few cars in this segment that are available with this feature. 

More standard equipment than before

The Polo has always excelled when it comes to standard equipment levels, but buyers of this new car will be even more pleased due to the uplift in kit. 

For starters, a large digital dial system – previously only found on the top-spec model or as an option – is fitted to all models, along with all-round electric windows and lane keep assist. It certainly means you get plenty for your money with this new Polo. 

Tweaked styling brings a more modern look

Given the Polo still looks fresh and modern, you can hardly blame Volkswagen for not wanting to mess too much with the formula. There are a range of changes, though, including new LED lighting at the front and rear, as well as a full-width LED light bar that stretches across the front of the car. 

Other changes include Volkswagen’s latest boot lid signage, along with a sportier look for the top R-Line model. Further colour options are also available, along with a tweaked line-up of alloy wheel options. 

New range of trim levels

Mirroring the same path as the Golf and Tiguan, the Polo gets a revised trim line-up, with familiar names like SE, SE L and Match all being axed in place of a new naming structure. 

The Life replaces the SE as the entry-level trim, while the Style steps in for the SE L. Above that, the familiar sporty-looking R-Line will prove popular, while the GTI hot hatch continues to head up the entire range. 

Reworked interior brings an uplift in quality 

Volkswagen hasn’t made a dramatic number of changes to the Polo’s interior, but – again – it really didn’t need much of a rejig as it retains one of the best cabins in a small car. 

Along with the digital dial system, though, the Polo gets a new steering wheel taken from the Golf, along with a revised climate control panel that helps to offer a more upmarket look. 

The new Volkswagen Polo is set to reach showrooms later in 2021, with pricing set to be revealed shortly.

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