Volkswagen Prepares 250hp Polo R with 4MOTION All-Wheel Drive
Volkswagen is developing a new Polo R hot hatch, pairing a 250hp turbocharged engine with 4MOTION all-wheel drive and targeting a Geneva Motor Show debut.
Volkswagen is developing a high-performance Polo R, aiming for 250hp and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, with a public debut targeted for the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The car is undergoing cold-weather testing in Northern Europe, according to reports from Autocar.
The Polo R is set to become the most powerful version of Volkswagen's supermini, following the limited-run Polo R WRC. The new model is expected to use a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250hp, paired with a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Power will be distributed to all four wheels through Volkswagen’s 4MOTION system. This marks a notable step up from the front-wheel-drive Polo GTI, which produces 180hp from its 1.8-litre engine.
Performance targets and rivals
Volkswagen is reportedly targeting a 0-100km/h time of under six seconds and a top speed just over 250km/h. These figures would place the Polo R well above most B-segment hot hatches of the period, including the Ford Fiesta ST and Renault Clio RS, both of which are front-wheel drive and produce less power. The Polo R’s main direct rival is likely to be the Audi S1, which is also in development with quattro all-wheel drive and is scheduled for a Geneva launch.
Volkswagen has not released official images or detailed specifications, but pre-production prototypes are reportedly being tested in extreme winter conditions. The Polo R is expected to share its basic platform and drivetrain layout with the Audi S1, though final calibration and styling will be distinct. The 4MOTION system should give the Polo R an advantage in traction and all-weather performance compared to its front-driven competitors.
What it means for hot hatch buyers
A production Polo R would give Volkswagen a contender at the top of the compact hot hatch market, appealing to buyers seeking all-wheel drive and higher power in a supermini. The car’s performance targets put it in direct competition with premium small hatches, and its 4MOTION system is likely to attract drivers in markets with challenging weather conditions.
The Polo R would join a growing number of high-powered small hatches, but its combination of 250hp and all-wheel drive would set it apart from most rivals. Pricing, final specifications and availability remain unconfirmed ahead of the expected Geneva reveal.
Related developments
Volkswagen has previously launched the Polo R WRC, a limited-production model inspired by its rally programme, but with front-wheel drive and 217bhp. The new Polo R would surpass this both in power and drivetrain technology. For more on the previous Polo R WRC, seeVolkswagen Polo R WRC: 217bhp Hot Hatch Unveiled for 2013.
