The Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) facelift, produced from 2005 to 2009, represents a significant evolution of Volkswagen’s supermini. This generation Polo, while not officially sold in the United States, was a mainstay in the European market, offering a practical and affordable option in the highly competitive small car segment. The 1.4-liter, 80 horsepower variant with an automatic transmission and five doors was a popular choice, balancing fuel efficiency with ease of driving. This model aimed to provide a comfortable and reliable vehicle for urban commuting and everyday use, embodying Volkswagen’s commitment to accessible motoring.
Volkswagen Polo IV (9N, facelift 2005) 1.4: An Overview
The Polo IV (9N) facelift built upon the success of the earlier 9N model, introducing styling refinements and updated features. Positioned as a subcompact or supermini, the Polo competed with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Opel Corsa in Europe. The facelift brought subtle changes to the exterior, including revised headlights and bumpers, along with interior enhancements focused on improving perceived quality and ergonomics. The 1.4-liter engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offered a balance between performance and fuel economy, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2005-2009 Volkswagen Polo IV 1.4 is a 1390cc inline four-cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 80 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 97.36 lb.-ft. of torque at 3800 rpm. While not a performance-oriented powerplant, it provides adequate power for everyday driving. The six-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving experience, particularly in urban environments. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 13.6 seconds, and the vehicle reaches a top speed of 106.25 mph. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 73.1 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 120.5 Nm per tonne. Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined fuel consumption rated at 34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, or 6.9 liters per 100 kilometers.
Design & Features
The Polo IV (9N) facelift is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its compact dimensions – 3897 mm in length, 1650 mm in width, and 1465 mm in height – make it easy to maneuver in tight city streets. The interior comfortably accommodates five passengers, and the rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo space. Trunk capacity ranges from 9.53 cubic feet with the rear seats up to 36.37 cubic feet with them folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, contributing to enhanced braking performance. The hydraulic power steering provides a responsive and comfortable driving experience. The vehicle’s design prioritized functionality and practicality, with a focus on providing a comfortable and reliable transportation solution.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo IV (9N, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (80 Hp) Automatic 5d |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 171 km/h (106.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 Nm @ 3800 rpm (97.36 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BUD |
| Engine displacement | 1390 cm3 (84.82 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1095 kg (2414.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 270 l (9.53 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1030 l (36.37 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3897 mm (153.43 in.) |
| Width | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2460 mm (96.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) facelift, particularly the 1.4-liter automatic variant, represents a well-rounded and practical choice for those seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient supermini. Its blend of functionality, comfort, and affordability made it a popular vehicle in its target market, and it continues to be appreciated for its enduring qualities.
