2025 Volkswagen Polo Vivo

The 2025 Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.4 Life Manual is South Africa’s benchmark budget hatchback, offering a pragmatic mix of everyday usability, economical running costs and solid build quality.

**Performance and engine**

- **Engine:** 1.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine
- **Power and torque:** 63 kW and 132 Nm
- **Gearbox:** Five-speed manual transmission
- **Driving feel:** The clutch is light and easy to modulate, and the gear changes are smooth. The car handles city commuting with ease, although the engine can feel a little stretched at higher altitudes.
- **Fuel economy:** Real-world combined fuel consumption is around 6.2–6.6 L/100 km.

**Pricing**

- **Base price:** The standard price at launch was around R288,500–R294,300, depending on factory updates and specifications. Optional packages, such as LED headlamps, the Park Package or the Light and Sight Package, can push the price above R330,000.

**Features and equipment**

- **Exterior:** Refreshed front bumper, updated headlights with active fog lamps and cornering lights, new 15-inch alloy wheels, and updated chrome-finish VW badging.
- **Infotainment and technology:** Touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, App-Connect, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a multifunction steering wheel.
- **Safety and convenience:** Standard electronic stability control (ESC), ABS brakes, dual front airbags, a tyre-pressure sensor and remote central locking.
- **Interior:** Hard-wearing plastics feature across the lower dashboard and door cards, contributing to a sturdy, rattle-free cabin feel. Rear legroom is adequate for daily use but a little tight for taller adults. The boot offers 280 litres of space, which can be expanded by folding the rear seats.