The Volkswagen Polo Vivo is an icon in South Africa and, with thousands sold each year, it can be considered to be the car that powers the nation. Reintroduced as Vivo models from the previous generation of Polo, the Polo Vivo is the essential car for everyday driving.
Volkswagen South Africa offers several hatchback and budget models alongside the Polo Vivo, including the Polo, Golf, and up! models. Each model is aimed at a different segment, with the VW up! and Polo Vivo hatchbacks being their entry level cars, and the Polo Vivo sedan being in a higher segment.
The history of the Polo Vivo series started with the 2006 Volkswagen Polo. After being replaced by the new 2008 Polo model, Volkswagen decided to keep the 2006 Polo alive and reintroduced it as the Polo Vivo.
Each time Volkswagen introduces a new generation Polo model, the previous generation Polo is introduced as the Polo Vivo. This means they can continue building the old Polo and introduce a new generation with the latest features and specs at a higher price.
All Polo Vivo models come with Volkswagen's renowned build quality and styling, while each variant has its own set of specs with optional extras.
The base Trendline model is powered by a 1.4L engine offering 55kW and 130Nm of torque and has a combined fuel cycle of 5.7L/100 km. The Polo Vivo GT offers a 1.6L turbo engine with 81kW and 200Nm of torque, with a combined fuel cycle of 4.6L/100 km.
Each model comes standard with Bluetooth radio, power steering, electric windows, and central locking. Optional extras include a touchscreen infotainment system, fog lights, and a tyre pressure monitor.
Volkswagen offers the Polo Vivo model in hatchback and sedan versions, with varying engine and gearbox specifications, available at any of Volkswagen's 119 dealerships across the country.
VW has their own in-house financing solution, Volkswagen Financial Services, which helps customers build a payment plan that fits their budgets. The company also offers Volkswagen Guaranteed Value, which guarantees the retail value of a new vehicle after a set time of ownership, dependent on certain terms and conditions.
The entry-level Polo Vivo Trendline retails from R191,400 while the top range Polo Vivo GT retails from R262,000. You can also hire a VW Polo Vivo from any car rental service found across the country.
Volkswagen offers in-house warranties, service, and maintenance plans under their AutoMotion banner. Each plan is valid for a specific period of time or kilometres driven. The range of AutoMotion options are unique to each package and can be viewed on their website at www.vw.co.za or at your local Volkswagen dealership. Additional service plans are available as well.
VolkswagenSure is Volkswagen's in-house car insurance solution that is specifically designed for VW owners. VolkswagenSure offers a comprehensive motor policy, a customer protection plan, and Shortfall Plus, which protects owners from paying the shortfall if their vehicle is stolen, hijacked, or written-off.
Volkswagen vehicles are a high risk for theft and hijacking. It is listed as the most stolen car brand in South Africa, according to the latest Vehicle Theft Report 2019 by car tracking and recovery company Ctrack. This could negatively affect the price of insurance quotes for the Volkswagen Polo Vivo, as car insurance companies will factor in the theft risk. The best way to get a good deal on your car insurance is to compare quotes from multiple insurers and find one that fits your budget.
Sources: Volkswagen South Africa, Wikipedia, Naamsa, Vehicle Theft Report
Information provided for informational purposes. Prices quoted correct at the time of publishing this article.
