The Volkswagen Polo VI 1.6 TDI (80 Hp) is a subcompact hatchback produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen from December 2017 to April 2019. Representing the sixth generation of the Polo, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where the Polo consistently ranks as a top-selling vehicle in its class. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo VI exemplifies Volkswagen’s commitment to fuel efficiency, practicality, and accessible technology within the supermini segment. This particular variant, powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged diesel engine, focused on delivering a balance between reasonable performance and exceptional fuel economy.
Volkswagen Polo VI 1.6 TDI: An Overview
The Polo VI, launched in 2017, marked a significant step forward for the model, incorporating Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform. This platform allowed for increased interior space, improved safety features, and a wider range of available technology compared to its predecessor. The 1.6 TDI variant specifically targeted buyers seeking low running costs and a comfortable driving experience for daily commutes and urban driving. It served as a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing the practicality of a five-door hatchback.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Polo VI 1.6 TDI is a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the DGTC model. This engine produces 80 horsepower at 2700-4800 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-2250 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 1.6 TDI offers adequate acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). A calculated 0-60 mph time is 12.3 seconds. The engine’s key strength lies in its fuel economy, achieving a combined fuel consumption of 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg or 76.3 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions of 97 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Polo VI 1.6 TDI is a five-door hatchback with a practical and modern design. Its exterior features clean lines and a relatively understated aesthetic, typical of Volkswagen’s design language. The interior is well-appointed for its class, offering seating for five passengers. Key features include standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electric power steering, and a comfortable driving position. The vehicle’s kerb weight of 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs) contributes to its nimble handling. The Polo VI offers 351 liters (12.4 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1125 liters (39.73 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features were a priority, with the MQB platform providing a solid foundation for improved crash protection. The Polo VI also offered optional features such as touchscreen infotainment systems and driver assistance technologies, depending on the trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo VI |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2017 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.3 l/100 km (71.3 US mpg, 85.6 UK mpg, 30.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 97 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16 kg/Hp, 62.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 2700-4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2250 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DGTC |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 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%) | 1000 kg (2204.62 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs) |
| Length | 4053 mm (159.57 in) |
| Width | 1751 mm (68.94 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) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Polo VI 1.6 TDI (80 Hp) represented a compelling option for European buyers seeking a fuel-efficient, practical, and well-built subcompact hatchback. Its combination of a refined diesel engine, modern design, and available technology made it a popular choice in a competitive segment.
