The Volkswagen Polo V, specifically the 5-door variant powered by the 1.2 TDI engine producing 75 horsepower, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running supermini lineage. Produced between April 2010 and March 2014, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and compact dimensions are highly valued. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo V exemplifies Volkswagen’s commitment to building practical, well-engineered vehicles. It competed with other subcompact hatchbacks like the Ford Fiesta, Opel Corsa (Vauxhall Corsa in the UK), and Renault Clio, offering a blend of affordability, economy, and build quality.
Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 TDI: An Overview
The Polo V generation, introduced in 2009, marked a substantial step forward in terms of interior space, safety features, and overall refinement compared to its predecessor. The 1.2 TDI model, with its three-cylinder diesel engine, was particularly popular among buyers seeking low running costs. This variant focused on maximizing fuel economy, making it an attractive option for city driving and long commutes. The Polo V’s design represented a move towards a more mature and sophisticated aesthetic, aligning it with Volkswagen’s broader design language at the time.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo V 1.2 TDI is the EA189 series 1.2-liter three-cylinder diesel engine, designated CFWA. This engine produces 75 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 180 Nm (132.76 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving. The engine’s key strengths lie in its fuel efficiency and low emissions. Fuel economy figures, measured using the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), range from 3.8 to 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers (61.9 to 60.3 US mpg), with CO2 emissions between 99 and 102 grams per kilometer. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power delivery is linear, and the engine is relatively quiet for a diesel, thanks to careful sound insulation. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) takes 13.9 seconds, with a top speed of 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine is transversely mounted and drives the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Polo V 1.2 TDI is a five-door hatchback with a practical and functional design. Its exterior styling is characterized by clean lines, a relatively high roofline, and a compact footprint. The interior is well-built and offers a surprising amount of space for a vehicle of its size. The 5-door configuration enhances accessibility for rear passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), driver and passenger airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The Polo V also benefited from improved crash test performance compared to earlier models. Trunk space is a respectable 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle’s drag coefficient of 0.32 contributes to its fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (5-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TDI (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2010 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.6-4.8 l/100 km (51.1 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3-3.4 l/100 km (71.3 – 69.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8-3.9 l/100 km (61.9 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 99-102 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 2000 rpm (132.76 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA189 / CFWA |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1082 kg (2385.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 538 kg (1186.09 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 952 l (33.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3970 mm (156.3 in.) |
| Width | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 TDI (75 Hp) was a well-rounded and practical supermini that offered a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, affordability, and build quality. While not available in the US market, it served as a popular choice for European drivers seeking a reliable and economical vehicle for daily use.
