VW logs 13,000 orders for new Polo ahead of launch
The new Volkswagen Polo is all-new for 2010, and early returns show plenty of interest in the little European hatchback. VW is reporting 13,000 pre-orders for the B-segment five-door; news that is sure to have executives at the German automaker doing their best Mazda3 impression. The Polo has been in production since March, but it won't officially hit showroom floors until June.
The brisk interest in the handsome little Polo is doubtlessly partly attributable to the German government's "cash-for-clunkers" bill which provides €2,500 to scrap old cars ($3,400 USD) in favor of a new model. The legislation has prompted German car buyers to pick up new cars at a brisk pace. In Europe, the compact Polo will receive powertrains that can produce between 59 and 103 hp, with a BlueMotion diesel that's capable of 61.9 mpg (US).
The U.S. is reportedly likely to receive two versions of the Polo within the next two years. If the models come through, both models will likely receive the automaker's new 1.2-liter TSI gas engine. Direct injection and turbocharging help the little four-banger reach 103 hp and 42.8 mpg (U.S.) combined.
[Source: Automotive News]
