The Volkswagen Polo V (3-door) 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running Polo supermini series. Produced between 2011 and 2014, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where the three-door hatchback configuration remained popular. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo is a cornerstone of Volkswagen’s global strategy, offering an affordable and practical entry point into the brand. The fifth-generation Polo, of which this 1.2 TSI variant is a part, brought improved refinement, technology, and fuel efficiency to the compact car segment.
Volkswagen Polo V: A European Supermini
The Polo has been a mainstay of the European automotive landscape since its introduction in 1975. The fifth generation, launched in 2009, continued this tradition, offering a blend of practicality, build quality, and modern features. The three-door version, like the 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) model, catered to buyers prioritizing a sportier aesthetic and often a lower price point. It competed directly with other superminis such as the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa. The Polo V represented a move upmarket for the model, with a more sophisticated interior and improved driving dynamics compared to its predecessors.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo V 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) is a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated EA111 / CBZC. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 3500 rpm. The turbocharger and direct fuel injection system contribute to both its efficiency and responsiveness. Power per liter is rated at 75.2 Hp/l. This engine is coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 11.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6.4 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain.
Design & Features
The Polo V (3-door) is a classic hatchback design, characterized by its compact dimensions and practical layout. It measures 3970 mm (156.3 in) in length, 1682 mm (66.22 in) in width, and 1462 mm (57.56 in) in height. The three-door configuration offers a slightly more streamlined appearance than the five-door model. Inside, the Polo offers seating for five passengers, although rear space is typical for the supermini segment. The trunk provides 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) of cargo space with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when folded down.
Safety features, while standard for the time, included ABS (Anti-lock braking system). The Polo V also benefited from Volkswagen’s reputation for build quality and reliability. The interior design was relatively minimalist but functional, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use. Available features, depending on trim level, included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. The drag coefficient of 0.32 contributes to its fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2011 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CBZC |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1027 kg (2264.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1580 kg (3483.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 553 kg (1219.16 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) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3970 mm (156.3 in.) |
| Width | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1901 mm (74.84 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1456 mm (57.32 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 153 mm (6.02 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Polo V (3-door) 1.2 TSI (90 Hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly in Europe, due to its blend of affordability, efficiency, and Volkswagen’s reputation for reliability. While not available new in the US, it exemplifies the qualities that have made the Polo a successful supermini for decades.
