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 economical choice for urban drivers. The 1.4 TDI 3-door variant, equipped with a 70 horsepower diesel engine, was particularly popular for its fuel efficiency and suitability for city commuting. This model occupied the subcompact hatchback segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Opel Corsa.
Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) Facelift: A Detailed Overview
The 9N facelift brought with it revised styling cues, improved interior materials, and updated engine options compared to the earlier 9N models. The focus was on refining an already successful formula, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and the overall driving experience. The 1.4 TDI engine, while modest in power output, was renowned for its durability and exceptional fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2005-2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDI is a 1.4-liter, inline-three cylinder diesel engine, designated BNM or BWD. This engine produces 70 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1600 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, the turbocharger and intercooler contribute to a usable power band, particularly at lower engine speeds. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 19.5:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing efficiency. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.6 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 13.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 164 km/h (101.9 mph). The engine utilizes a pump-nozzle (unit injector) fuel injection system, a technology known for its precision and efficiency. A particulate filter was included to reduce emissions, reflecting growing environmental concerns at the time.
Design & Features
The Polo IV (9N) facelift is a three-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its compact dimensions – 3897 mm (153.43 in) in length, 1650 mm (64.96 in) in width, and 1465 mm (57.68 in) in height – make it well-suited for navigating congested urban environments. The 3-door configuration prioritized a sportier aesthetic, appealing to a younger demographic. The interior, while functional, was characterized by its simplicity and practicality. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated front disc brakes, alongside rear disc brakes. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1095 kg (2414.06 lbs) contributes to its relatively nimble handling. Trunk space ranges from 270 liters (9.53 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1030 liters (36.37 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down, providing a reasonable amount of cargo capacity for a vehicle of its size.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo IV (9N, facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TDI (70 Hp) 3dr. |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg / 49.6 UK mpg / 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg / 72.4 UK mpg / 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 1600 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BNM, BWD |
| Engine displacement | 1422 cm3 (86.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Pump-nozzle (Unit Injector) |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 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 track | 1425 mm (56.1 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 |
| Tires size | 165/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) facelift 1.4 TDI 3dr. remains a testament to Volkswagen’s engineering prowess, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and reliability. While not available in the US market, it served as a popular and dependable choice for European drivers seeking a compact and economical vehicle.
