The Volkswagen Polo Vivo I Sedan 1.4 (86 hp) Tiptronic, produced from 2010 to 2017, represents a significant model within the South African automotive market. Derived from the Mk5 Polo hatchback (Typ 6R), the Vivo was specifically developed as an affordable sedan option for buyers in that region, replacing the previous Polo Classic. It occupied the entry-level to mid-range position within the Vivo lineup, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and practicality, particularly appealing to families and budget-conscious consumers. The “Tiptronic” designation refers to the six-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode, distinguishing it from the available five-speed manual versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo Vivo |
| Generation | Polo Vivo I Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (86 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 163 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 174 km/h (108.12 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm, 118.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CLPA |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1118 kg (2464.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 432 l (15.26 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 737 l (26.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4198 mm (165.28 in.) |
| Width | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2462 mm (96.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1434 mm (56.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1426 mm (56.14 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 115 mm (4.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut, Trailing arm, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 5J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Polo Vivo 1.4 Tiptronic is powered by the EA111 engine family, specifically the CLPA engine code. This is a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel to the intake ports rather than directly into the combustion chamber. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, which aids in improved breathing and efficiency. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, offering both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode allowing the driver some control over gear selection. This transmission was chosen for its relative affordability and ease of maintenance compared to more advanced automatic technologies.
Driving Characteristics
With 86 horsepower and 97 lb-ft of torque, the 1.4 Tiptronic variant of the Polo Vivo offers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 16.6 seconds, and top speed is around 108 mph. The Tiptronic transmission, while providing convenience, does impact acceleration compared to the five-speed manual version due to inherent transmission losses. Gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. In real-world driving, the car feels adequate for city commuting and highway cruising, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The automatic transmission tends to hold onto gears longer to maximize fuel efficiency, which can sometimes feel sluggish, especially when climbing hills or accelerating quickly.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Tiptronic typically came equipped with basic features such as air conditioning, power steering, central locking, and an integrated audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes and dual front airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, electric windows, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level generally sat in the middle of the Vivo range, offering more convenience features than the base model but lacking the premium touches found in higher-spec versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Polo Vivo I Sedan utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension with a transverse stabilizer bar, providing a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective solution for compact cars. Braking is handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The drum brakes on the rear were a cost-saving measure, and while adequate for normal driving, they offer less stopping power and fade resistance compared to disc brakes. The hydraulic power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it maneuverable in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Polo Vivo 1.4 Tiptronic was generally well-received in the South African market as a practical and affordable sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and reliability, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the 1.6-liter versions of the Vivo, the 1.4 Tiptronic offered lower running costs but significantly less power. The manual transmission versions of the 1.4 also provided better fuel economy and quicker acceleration. However, the Tiptronic appealed to buyers who prioritized convenience and ease of driving over performance.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Polo Vivo, and specifically the 1.4 Tiptronic variant, has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle. The EA111 engine is known for its robustness, and the Tiptronic transmission, while not the most sophisticated, is generally dependable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these Vivos are still relatively common and represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical sedan. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable, contributing to its continued popularity.
