Volkswagen Polo R WRC: 217bhp Hot Hatch Unveiled for 2013
Volkswagen has launched the Polo R WRC, a 217bhp, 151mph limited-edition model built to celebrate its World Rally Championship entry, with just 2,500 units planned.
Volkswagen has revealed the production version of the Polo R WRC, its most powerful Polo to date, at the Monte Carlo launch of its 2013 World Rally Championship team. The new model delivers 217bhp and 258lb ft from a turbocharged 2.0-litre TSI engine, eclipsing the Polo GTI and matching the output of some of the class’s most serious hot hatches.
Performance and technical details
The Polo R WRC sits on the fifth-generation Polo platform and uses a version of the Golf GTI’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, tuned for 217bhp at 4500-6300rpm and 258lb ft of torque from 2500-4400rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox with a short-throw shift. Volkswagen claims 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 151mph, making it the fastest Polo ever built. Claimed combined fuel consumption is 38mpg, with CO2 emissions of 174g/km.
At 1,324kg (including a driver, some luggage and a nearly full tank), the Polo R WRC is heavier than the Polo GTI, but the substantial torque increase, 100Nm more than the GTI, should translate to strong real-world performance. The car features uprated disc brakes, 18-inch ‘Cagliari’ alloys with 215/35 R18 tyres, and rally-inspired bodywork, including a lower front spoiler, large air intakes, a roof-edge rear spoiler and a rear diffuser.
Styling and equipment
All 2,500 examples will be finished in white with blue and grey rally stripes, echoing the livery of Volkswagen’s WRC entry. Exterior details include ‘WRC’ and ‘R’ badging, a unique front bumper and grille, and motorsport-inspired touches throughout. The interior is fitted with WRC-branded sports seats, an Alcantara steering wheel, black roof lining and aluminium pedals. Standard equipment also includes cruise control, climate control, sat-nav and a centre armrest, positioning the R WRC as a fully equipped hot hatch rather than a stripped-out special.
Pricing, availability and WRC connection
Priced at €33,900 in Germany, the Polo R WRC commands a substantial premium over the standard Polo range. Volkswagen says the model is being produced to homologate the Polo WRC rally car, requiring close visual and technical links between the road and competition versions. Advance orders opened on 11 December 2012, with deliveries scheduled to begin in September 2013. All cars will be left-hand drive, and Volkswagen UK has stated it has no plans to import the model officially, though it is considering a WRC-themed styling pack for the regular Polo.
Comparison with rivals
| Model | Power (bhp) | Torque (Nm) | 0-62mph (sec) | Top speed (mph) | Price (Germany) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Polo R WRC | 217 | 350 | 6.4 | 151 | €33,900 |
| Renaultsport Clio RS 200 | 200 | 240 | 6.7 | 143 | €24,990 |
| Ford Fiesta ST (2013) | 180 | 290 | 6.9 | 139 | €19,990 |
