Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.6 GT (2011) Driving Impression

Although the iconic Volkswagen Citi Golf was always most successful in its more basic iterations, the presence of fun-to-drive, sports-oriented versions in the line-up had played a major part in ensuring its desirability and longevity. Models such as the CTi and Life offered big thrills for comparatively little outlay. Up until now, the Citi’s replacement, the Vivo, has lacked a model offering with a bit of sparkle. The new three-door Polo Vivo 1.6 GT derivative is meant to fill that void.

Subtle, but effective styling tweaks

The Vivo, of course, is a slightly reworked version of the previous-generation Polo. As such it is a neat, but conservatively styled compact hatchback that still looks modern. For the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT variant, however, Volkswagen has decided to use the sporty three-door bodyshell, which immediately gives this new model a more dynamic personality. Volkswagen has also added some tasty details, such as twin-exhaust outlets, a tailgate spoiler, 15-inch alloy wheels and a lowered suspension.

The darkened headlamps (as fitted to all Vivos) really suit the Vivo, and combine well with the wide front airdam (devoid of fog lamps) and even the black plastic door handles and mirror housings. These items would usually denote a budget offering, but somehow, with the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT, they appear to be part of a strong visual package.

As per usual, Volkswagen has done even better in the cabin. To put it simply, the Vivo GT’s cabin would still be competitive even among vehicles with much higher price tags. This explains to a large degree why the previous Polo was always such an attractive, desirable car, right up to its final days.

For the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT, Volkswagen has added attractive red stitching to the leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear boot. Continuing with the theme are red inserts on the sports seats and even rather OTT red seatbelts. Silver trim accents on the facia and elsewhere, as well as cool blue backlighting for the instrumentation, further boost the visual appeal.  But it’s not only the trim choices that impress. The steering wheel itself is a very neat, nice-to-hold three-spoke sports item. As ever, Volkswagen hasn’t skimped on comfort-boosting features, so the steering wheel offers full rake/reach adjustability.

Standard features on this model include a radio/CD player with an SD card slot and even Bluetooth. Air-conditioning is standard, too, as are electric windows, two airbags and ABS with EBD. What it does lack, however, is a multi-function steering wheel.

Nothing extra under the bonnet

So far, so good – the Vivo GT’s exterior design and interior details will certainly make it appealing to younger buyers looking for something with a bit of “zing”. Unfortunately, there are no changes under the bonnet. The GT is powered by the same 77 kW/155 Nm 1.6-litre petrol engine as other Vivo models, so performance should be identical. Somehow, however, the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT does feel a bit more urgent. Perhaps it’s the combination of relatively low weight (1 089 kg) and the firmer suspension, but this Vivo – subjectively speaking – feels faster than expected. A 0-100 km/h time of 10.6 seconds is however exactly the same as is claimed for the Vivo 5-door Trendline. Perhaps it’s the psychological effect of all the red detailing inside that cabin! The top speed is an impressive 187 km/h.

Fuel consumption isn’t likely to be the main concern for someone buying a sportified Vivo, but it has to be said that 6.6 L/100 km is very good. In our experience, however, this figure is likely to rise to around 8 L/100 km during normal driving that exploits some of the GT’s entertainment capabilities.

And what of the suspension changes? The impressive showing continues when the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT is pushed hard. The gear ratios are very well chosen for this engine, and the torque is available relatively low in the rev range, so the GT can be fun to hustle. The steering offers nice weighting (no feedback, of course) and is generally quite precise. The lowered, firmer suspension, meanwhile, has made the car significantly more stable upon corner entry. Grip from the wider tyres is also impressive. Overall, this Vivo, despite not offering any extra power, is noticeably more fun to pilot than its siblings and therefore does deserve the GT badge. Well done, Volkswagen!

VW Polo Vivo 1.6 GT – Verdict

At the price, there really is nothing that offers quite the same type of appeal as the Polo Vivo 1.6 GT. With clever detailing inside and out, Volkswagen has elevated the GT out of its budget car roots, and the suspension changes have certainly given it an edgier personality, even though there isn’t any extra power to exploit. For the same money, you can get a smaller, high-spec A-segment contender, or a relatively bare-boned B-segment vehicle. Once again, VW has hit the nail on the head.

We like:

• Subtle, but good looks
• Superb interior
• Good to drive
• Comfort
• Build quality

We don’t like:

• Nothing extra under the bonnet
• No service plan

Volkswagen Polo Vivo 1.6 GT fast facts

Source: www.um.co.za

Also consider:

Renault Clio 1.6S:

More expensive and offers a five-door body. Then again, it’s not that much more expensive and also packs more features, a more modern cabin, added versatility and even more power. Should be a great nearly new used buy, this.

Mazda2 1.3 Active:

Yes, the littlest Mazda is down on power and doesn’t even have alloy wheels, but it’s just so good to drive. The cabin is good, too, and as is to be expected, the build quality is excellent. Pity about the refinement – road noise levels are quite high.

Renault Twingo 1.2 Dynamique+:

Don’t laugh, the Twingo is a far more entertaining car than its comical looks would lead you to believe. It’s cheaper, boasts individualism and is fun to drive, too. Boasts more features as well.