The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running Polo supermini series. Produced from 2018 to 2020, this model is part of the sixth generation (Polo VI), which debuted in 2017. Primarily sold in the European market, the Polo occupies a crucial position as a premium subcompact car, competing with models like the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Opel Corsa. The 1.0 TSI variant, equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a dual-clutch gearbox (DSG), aimed to deliver a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and modern technology within the supermini segment.
Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG: An Overview
The Polo VI marked a substantial leap forward for the model, moving to the MQB A0 platform – a modular transverse matrix shared with other Volkswagen Group vehicles. This new platform allowed for increased interior space, improved safety features, and the integration of more advanced technology. The 1.0 TSI engine, a key component of this generation, was designed to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards while providing a responsive driving experience. The DSG transmission further enhanced this by offering smooth and quick gear changes.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG lies a 999 cc inline three-cylinder petrol engine, designated as DKRA or DKRF. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output to 116 horsepower (Hp). The engine produces a torque of 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) available between 2000 and 3500 rpm, providing ample pulling power for everyday driving. The power-to-litre ratio is an impressive 116.1 Hp/l. This engine is coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) transmission, which delivers rapid and seamless gear changes, contributing to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.5 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined figures ranging from 4.8 to 4.9 l/100 km (49-48 US mpg, 58.9-57.6 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions between 108-110 g/km, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards.
Design & Features
The Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG is a five-door hatchback with a seating capacity for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by a modern and understated aesthetic, aligning with Volkswagen’s design language of the time. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4053 mm in length, 1751 mm in width (1964 mm including mirrors), and 1461 mm in height. The wheelbase measures 2551 mm. Inside, the Polo VI offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for its class, thanks to the MQB A0 platform. Key features include a modern infotainment system, available with touchscreen displays, and a range of driver-assistance systems, such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Safety was a priority, with the Polo VI achieving high scores in Euro NCAP crash tests. Practicality is enhanced by a trunk (boot) space of 351 liters (12.4 cu. ft.) which expands to 1125 liters (39.73 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The kerb weight of the vehicle is 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo VI |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4-4.5 l/100 km (53.5 – 52.3 US mpg, 64.2 – 62.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8-4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg, 58.9 – 57.6 UK mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 108-110 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 | 10.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 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 | 1190 kg (2623.5 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1610 kg (3549.44 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 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.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1964 mm (77.32 in.) |
| Height | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2551 mm (100.43 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.0 TSI (116 Hp) DSG represented a compelling package in the competitive supermini segment. Its combination of fuel efficiency, performance, modern technology, and practicality made it a popular choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded and refined small car. While not officially sold in the US market, the Polo remains a significant model in Europe and other regions, showcasing Volkswagen’s commitment to producing high-quality, technologically advanced vehicles.
