The Volkswagen Polo V (3-door) 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) DSG represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running Polo supermini series. Produced between November 2009 and March 2014, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where the three-door hatchback body style remained popular. It offered a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and a surprisingly sporty driving experience thanks to its turbocharged engine and dual-clutch gearbox. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo V exemplifies Volkswagen’s commitment to building well-engineered, compact cars. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.2-liter TSI engine and DSG transmission, was positioned as a mid-range offering within the Polo V lineup.
Volkswagen Polo V (3-door) 1.2 TSI: Overview
The Polo V marked a substantial step forward for the Polo, moving beyond its reputation as a basic city car. It benefited from Volkswagen’s advancements in engine technology and chassis engineering, resulting in a more refined and capable vehicle. The 3-door configuration catered to buyers prioritizing a sportier aesthetic and potentially easier parking in congested urban environments. The 1.2 TSI engine, a key feature of this model, combined direct injection and turbocharging to deliver a good balance of power and fuel economy. The inclusion of the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) further enhanced the driving experience with its quick and smooth gear changes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Polo V 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) DSG lies the EA111 series 1.2-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, designated CBZB, utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 105 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1550 and 4100 rpm. The turbocharging system provides a broad torque curve, making the car feel responsive in everyday driving situations. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is a respectable 87.7 hp/l. Paired with the 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission, the Polo V 1.2 TSI achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds. Its maximum speed is rated at 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy figures, measured using the NEDC standard, are 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg) combined, with 7.0 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg) in urban conditions and 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 124 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Polo V (3-door) is a classic hatchback, characterized by its compact dimensions and practical layout. The three-door configuration provides a slightly more streamlined appearance compared to the five-door model. The car’s design is relatively understated, reflecting Volkswagen’s typically conservative styling approach. Inside, the Polo V offers seating for five passengers, although rear space is somewhat limited, typical for a supermini. The trunk (boot) space is 280 liters with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters when folded down. Key features of this model include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a McPherson strut front suspension paired with a torsion beam rear suspension. The 1.2 TSI DSG variant often included features like alloy wheels (typically 15, 16, or 17-inch), air conditioning, and an upgraded audio system. Safety features, while not as extensive as in modern vehicles, included driver and passenger airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The Polo V prioritized a balance between practicality, comfort, and a relatively engaging driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | November, 2009 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 1550-4100 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CBZB |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm (2.98 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1051 kg (2317.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 549 kg (1210.34 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 | 7 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) DSG, while not a performance car, offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient, well-built, and enjoyable-to-drive supermini. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, and practical hatchback design made it a popular choice in the European market.
