The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp), produced from 2017 to 2018, represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running supermini lineage. As the sixth generation of the Polo, this model aimed to refine the formula of practicality, efficiency, and technology that had made the Polo a mainstay in the European automotive market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo is a hugely popular vehicle in Europe, serving as a direct competitor to models like the Ford Fiesta, Opel Corsa (Vauxhall Corsa in the UK), and Renault Clio. The Polo VI 1.0 TSI specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and respectable performance in a compact package.
Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Polo VI, launched in 2017, marked a shift towards a more sophisticated and technologically advanced supermini. Built on the MQB A0 platform – a modular transverse matrix – it shared underpinnings with other Volkswagen Group vehicles like the SEAT Ibiza and Audi A1. This platform allowed for greater flexibility in design and engineering, resulting in a more spacious interior and improved driving dynamics compared to its predecessor. The 1.0 TSI variant, powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, was a key offering in the Polo VI range, appealing to those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing drivability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo VI 1.0 TSI is its 999 cc turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated CHZJ or DKJA. This engine produces 115 horsepower at 5000-5500 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000-3500 rpm. The direct injection system and turbocharging contribute to both its efficiency and responsiveness. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission in this configuration, the Polo VI 1.0 TSI achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). The engine’s power-to-litre ratio is an impressive 115.1 hp/l. Fuel economy figures are noteworthy, with combined consumption rated at 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 105 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The weight-to-power ratio of 10 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.8 kg/Nm further highlight the engine’s efficiency.
Design & Features
The Polo VI 1.0 TSI is a five-door hatchback with a practical and modern design. Its exterior styling is characterized by clean lines, a relatively conservative aesthetic, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, the Polo VI offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its size, thanks to the MQB A0 platform. The interior design emphasizes functionality and build quality, with a focus on user-friendly controls and comfortable seating for five passengers. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system (depending on trim level), and a comprehensive suite of safety equipment, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The trunk offers 351 liters (12.4 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1125 liters (39.73 cu. ft.) when folded down. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1155 kg (2546.34 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo VI |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 5000-5500 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CHZJ, DKJA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1155 kg (2546.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 465 kg (1025.15 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 351 l (12.4 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1125 l (39.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4053 mm (159.57 in.) |
| Width | 1751 mm (68.94 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2548 mm (100.31 in.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (115 Hp) represents a well-rounded and efficient supermini that successfully blended practicality, technology, and performance. While not available in the US market, it remains a popular and highly regarded vehicle in Europe, demonstrating Volkswagen’s commitment to producing high-quality, fuel-efficient vehicles for a global audience.
