The Volkswagen Polo V, produced from 2009 to 2014, represents the fifth generation of Volkswagen’s popular supermini. This iteration of the Polo was a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and refinement, solidifying its position as a leading contender in the European small car market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo is a mainstay in Europe, South Africa, and other global markets, known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and build quality. The 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) variant, discussed here, was a common engine choice, offering a balance of performance and economy. This five-door hatchback aimed to provide a comfortable and versatile option for urban commuters and small families.
Volkswagen Polo V (5-door) 1.2 TSI (105 Hp)
The Polo V marked a departure from previous generations with a more sophisticated and mature design. It offered a noticeable increase in interior space and a higher level of standard equipment. The 1.2 TSI engine, a key component of this model, utilized direct injection and turbocharging to deliver a respectable power output with impressive fuel economy. This generation Polo was built on the Volkswagen Group’s PQ25 platform, shared with other models like the SEAT Ibiza and Škoda Fabia, allowing for economies of scale and a consistent driving experience across the range.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo V 1.2 TSI is a 1.2-liter, inline-four cylinder engine, designated EA111 / CBZB. This engine produces 105 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1550 and 4100 rpm. The use of a turbocharger and direct fuel injection allows for a relatively high power output for its displacement, resulting in a power-to-liter ratio of 87.7 hp/l. This engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, driving the front wheels. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds. The Polo V 1.2 TSI achieves a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg) on the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 124 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Polo V 1.2 TSI is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by clean lines and a relatively understated aesthetic, typical of Volkswagen’s design philosophy at the time. The interior is well-built and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and practicality. Key features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a range of available options such as air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD/radio system. Safety features were improved over previous generations, with enhanced body structure and increased use of high-strength steel. Trunk space is a practical 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 3970 mm (156.3 in.) in length, 1682 mm (66.22 in.) in width, and 1462 mm (57.56 in.) in height. The curb weight is 1038 kg (2288.4 lbs), contributing to its relatively nimble handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (5-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2009 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 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 | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 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 | 1038 kg (2288.4 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 532 kg (1172.86 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.) |
| 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.) |
| Gears | 6, manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Polo V 1.2 TSI (105 Hp) offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and well-built small car. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, comfortable interior, and reasonable running costs made it a popular choice in its segment, particularly in European markets.
