Volkswagen CrossPolo

Introduction

Volkswagen Cross Polo is a perfect option for those car enthusiasts who prefer the design of a hatchback and a sporty style of a crossover. This compact crossover was earlier introduced in the Indian car market with a diesel engine, but its petrol version has also been rolled out later. Recently, it was showcased at the 2016 Auto Expo that was held in Delhi. Let us further get into the details of this machine, which is presently available in two variants.

Pros

1. Eye catching exterior design with striking elements does leave you with a good impression.

2. Journey in this vehicle is a hassle free experience all thanks to the presence of numerous comfort aspects.

Cons

1. Ground clearance is quite low compared to its rivals.

2. Interior design looks a bit dull and needs an update.

Stand Out Features

1. Advanced safety elements such as ABS and airbags ensure passengers' security to a great extent.

Overview

Cross Polo is one of the supreme offerings of this brand that comes with the best of German engineering tradition. Unlike other models from this stable, it flaunts a sporty look yet carries the tough and aggressive persona, which can lure masses at the very first glance. During the 2016 Delhi Auto Expo, Volkswagen has displayed Polo as well along with model. The Polo hatchback received a few updates such as the rain sensing wipers, MirrorLink connectivity and infotainment system with touchscreen display. So, we are expecting that this crossover may also receive the same updates. Going into details, this machine has good exterior dimensions with wheelbase measuring 2469mm. Several interesting elements have been incorporated inside that helps in making your journey quite comfortable. Some of them include the multifunction steering wheel, automatic air conditioner, power windows, and a few storage spaces as well. On the outside, you can see striking elements like the chrome radiator grille, alloy wheels, and silver roof rails that adds to its overall appearance. Except for a few changes here and there, the design and structure is almost similar to that of its sibling. In terms of safety, there is advanced engine immobilizer, dual front airbags, and rear parking sensors as well that gives you the much needed protection. Technically, it gets both diesel and petrol engine options, which come paired with a 5-speed manual transmission gear box. Available at a starting price of Rs. 7.6 lakh, this model competes with Fiat Avventura, Toyota Etios Cross and Hyundai i20 Active in this segment.

Exterior

We at CarDekho, would say that the sporty contours and subtle lines of this vehicle definitely sets it apart from its sibling, Polo. And we are hopeful that its overall appearance just gets better in the next facelift.

As for the exterior dimensions, it is 92mm longer than Etios Cross, but lags behind all its rivals in terms of both height and width. Even the ground clearance is quite low in comparison to its competitors.

What remains the highlight in its front fascia is the chrome accentuated radiator grille that is embossed with the company's logo in the center.

Surrounding this grille is a trendy headlight cluster that is integrated with dual beam halogen headlamps in black finish and turn indicators as well.

The well designed 'Cross' bumper gets a perforated black matte colored air dam that is further flanked by a couple of fog lamps.

Stylish panels on the doors adorn its sides besides acting as a protective layer. Also present are body colored handles, and outside rear view mirrors with side turn indicators fitted to them.

The wheel arches are pronounced and come fitted with a set of 15 inch alloy wheels. These rims are further adorned with tubeless radial tyres of size 185/60 R15.

The rear end is appealing with a curvy boot lid that has the VW logo neatly embossed on it, while the refreshed bumpers with silver finished skid plates further adds to its style. Pair of bright fog lamps are also on offer which completes the look.

Another aspect is the large tail lamp cluster that houses reverse lights and turn indicators.

Compared to Toyota Etios Cross, it gets 29 liters more boot space, but Hyundai i20 Active leads the tally with 285 liters of storage space.

Interior

Its huge cabin with an attractive color scheme will certainly leave you mesmerized once you step inside. Besides accommodating five people easily, this machine will also provide ample leg and head space for added convenience.

The cockpit looks quite modernistic and features a dashboard made up of high quality scratch resistant plastic. It houses a few equipments like an illuminated instrument cluster, chrome accentuated air vents and a stylish center console.

Good passenger comfort is ensured by well cushioned seats, which are covered with Superior “Cloud” Titanschwarz fabric upholstery. These also come along with head restraints that add to your convenience.

The instrument cluster comes with a lot of functions and warning indicators that keeps you updated with the vehicle's status.

For best in-car entertainment, there is a music system with CD, MP3 player, and a total of four speakers. This unit also supports USB port, and auxiliary input options along with Bluetooth connectivity.

On the other hand, its three spoke steering wheel gets a fine leather wrap and comes with tilt and telescopic adjustment functions.

Besides these, it includes map pockets in all doors, sunvisors, cup and bottle holders, a cooled glove box, parcel tray and a few other such aspects.

Performance

This stunning compact crossover from Volkswagen is on offer with both petrol and diesel engine options to choose from. Both of them are paired with a five speed manual transmission gear box that drives power to its front wheels. Let us explore the performance of these engines in detail.

Diesel

The diesel variant is powered by a 1.5-litre oil burner that comes with a displacement capacity of 1498cc. This is a four cylinder motor that carries 16 valves and has a common rail direct injection system. On the highways, it can return a mileage of around 20.14 Kmpl which drops down to nearly 16.83 Kmpl on the city roads. This engine makes a peak power of 88.73bhp at 4200rpm besides yielding torque of 230Nm between 1500 to 2500rpm. This motor enables the machine to attain an impressive top speed of  around 160 Kmph.

Petrol

Meanwhile, it is also offered with a 1.2-litre petrol drive train that comes integrated with a multi point fuel injection system. This mill displaces 1198cc and comes with three cylinders. It has the ability to churn out a maximum power of 74bhp at 5400rpm and delivers torque output of 110Nm at 3750rpm. In terms of fuel economy, it gives as low as 12.2 Kmpl within the city, and on the highways, this figure goes up to 16.47 Kmpl.

Ride and Handling

Volkswagen Cross Polo is bestowed with an efficient suspension system that leaves you with a comfortable and jerk free driving experience. On the front axle, it has a McPherson strut with stabilizer bar, whereas the rear one is assembled with a semi independent trailing arm. In terms of braking, its front wheels are equipped with disc brakes, while drum brakes are used for the rear ones. The advanced systems like ABS further improves the braking mechanism by allowing short stopping distances. Handling of this machine is ensured by the speed sensitive electronic power steering wheel, which has tilt and telescopic adjustment functions.

Safety

In this stunning machine, you will find a number of security elements that will make the drive smooth and safe. It comes with dual front airbags that reduces the possibility of injury in case of a collision. Then, there is the anti lock braking system that prevents skidding on slippery roads and during emergency braking. Aside from these, it is available with an engine immobilizer, anti pinch power windows, rear defogger, rear parking sensors, and a few other aspects that enhance the security quotient.

Variants

Only two variants are available in this model series. Except for the engine options, these trims come with the same features list.

Both the TDI and MPI variants of this model are bestowed with features like an automatic air conditioning unit, 15-inch stylish alloy wheels, cruise control function, anti lock braking system, and bright dual beam halogen headlamps to name a few.

Verdict

Based on the aforementioned details, we can say that Volkswagen Cross Polo is indeed a good choice as it packs in a number of features. Its technical specifications are also decent with both its engines delivering good performance. But however, there are a few aspects such as the exterior dimensions and comfort elements that require an upgrade. If you are one of those who need decent interiors, good overall performance at an affordable price tag then this is the machine to go for.