Seven Polo players who showcased unconventional dance moves during their performance

The Volkswagen Polo has been a playground for innovation and experimentation since its inception. Over the years, the compact car has seen numerous special models, each offering unique features and pushing the boundaries of efficiency and performance.

The Early Years

The Polo Sprint, introduced in 1983, was one of the first such models. With a 1.9-liter boxer engine and a modified five-speed manual transmission from the VW Transporter, the Sprint accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8 seconds. Another early standout was the Polo GT, introduced in 1979. Featuring elements like red stripes, color-contrasting accents, and a 1.3-liter engine with 60 horsepower, the Polo GT offered a more dynamic driving experience compared to the standard model.

The 2000s: A Decade of Diversity

The new millennium brought even more variety to the Polo lineup. In 2002, the Polo Fun was presented, a model that stood out with its crossover elements and an engine range of 55 to 100 PS. The Polo Fun also previewed the CrossPolo, with its off-road look and increased ground clearance.

In 2006, Volkswagen introduced the Polo BlueMotion, a technology carrier that reduced consumption to just 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers, setting new standards in efficiency. The same year saw the introduction of the fourth-generation Polo GTI, featuring a 1.8-liter turbo engine and 150 horsepower.

Special Editions and Rare Gems

The Polo Harlequin, produced between 1995 and 1997, is a rare special model with a total of 3,806 units produced. Each Harlequin Polo was one of a kind, as each body was uniquely composed from the four available colors: pistachio green, Chagall blue, gorse yellow, and flash red.

In 1996, the Polo III Harlequin was introduced, a unique series based on the modular production principle, featuring four distinctive colors and body parts that could be combined in various ways. The Polo R WRC Street, a limited edition homologation model for the World Rally Championship, was released in 2013. With 220 horsepower, it was the most powerful series-production Polo to date.

Experiments and Innovations

The Eco-Polo, created in 1987, demonstrated significant fuel efficiency with an aerodynamic body, a two-cylinder diesel engine with direct injection, and an electrically activatable compressor. The Breitbau conversion kit, created in 1986, offered customers the opportunity to purchase and install it themselves or order a fully converted car for an additional 8,500 D-Mark.

Recent Developments

In 2007, Volkswagen presented the Polo GTI Cabriolet, a concept study that combined the sporty appearance of the Polo GTI with the driving pleasure of a cabriolet. The Polo GTI Cabriolet used a novel Z-folding roof and a glass sliding roof.

Volkswagen Motorsport created a special conversion kit for the second-generation Polo in 1986, known as the Breitbau. This conversion kit bore a striking resemblance to the rally-ready Golf.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Polo has been a platform for innovation, experimentation, and the creation of unique models throughout its history. From the early Polo Sprint and GT to the modern Polo R WRC Street and Polo GTI Cabriolet, each model has offered something new and exciting to the compact car segment.