The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp), produced from 2018 to 2020, 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 popular choice in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo is a mainstay in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Peugeot 208. The Polo VI 1.0 TSI specifically targeted buyers seeking a balance between fuel economy and respectable performance in a compact, five-door hatchback configuration.
Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI: An Overview
The Polo VI, launched in 2017, marked a shift towards a more mature and sophisticated design language for the Polo. Built on the MQB A0 platform – a modular transverse matrix – it offered increased interior space and improved safety features compared to its predecessor. The 1.0 TSI variant, powered by a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, became a key offering in the range, appealing to those prioritizing running costs and everyday usability. This generation Polo saw advancements in infotainment, driver-assistance systems, and overall build quality, solidifying its position as a leader in the supermini segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo VI 1.0 TSI is a 999 cc (60.96 cu. in.) inline three-cylinder gasoline engine, designated DKRA or DKRF. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, allowing it to produce 116 horsepower (Hp) and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 3500 rpm. This output translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 116.1 Hp/l. The engine is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. Performance figures include 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 relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to impressive fuel economy, with combined cycle figures ranging from 4.6 to 4.7 l/100 km (51.1 to 50 US mpg or 61.4 to 60.1 UK mpg). The weight-to-power ratio is 10 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.8 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Polo VI 1.0 TSI is a five-door hatchback designed to maximize interior space within a compact footprint. Its exterior styling is characterized by clean lines, a relatively conservative aesthetic, and a focus on aerodynamic efficiency. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4053 mm (159.57 in.) in length, 1751 mm (68.94 in.) in width, and 1461 mm (57.52 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2551 mm (100.43 in.). Inside, the Polo VI offers seating for five passengers and a trunk (boot) space ranging from 351 liters (12.4 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1125 liters (39.73 cu. ft.) with them folded down.
Key features of the Polo VI 1.0 TSI include an electric power steering system, ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. Safety features, crucial for this generation, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1155 kg (2546.34 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs). The Polo VI also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards. The interior typically features a modern infotainment system, though specific features vary depending on trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo VI |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5-5.7 l/100 km (42.8 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-4.7 l/100 km (51.1 – 50 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 104-107 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 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp |
| Power per litre | 116.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DKRA, DKRF |
| 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 aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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) |
| 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%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 4053 mm (159.57 in.) |
| Width | 1751 mm (68.94 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1964 mm (77.32 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2551 mm (100.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1499-1525 mm (59.02 – 60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1483-1509 mm (58.39 – 59.41 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 148 mm (5.83 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 T; 185/60 R16 H |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15; 6J x 16 |
The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) offered a compelling package for European buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and well-equipped supermini. Its combination of a fuel-efficient engine, modern features, and a comfortable interior ensured its continued success in a competitive market segment.
