Volkswagen has revealed its new Polo Sedan for the Russian market, but the fresh-faced three-box saloon is not on the cards for South Africa.

While the Virtus revealed for Brazil as long ago as November 2017 runs on the same MQB-A0 platform as the current-generation Polo hatchback, this version for Russia sticks with the old PQ25 underpinnings.

VW South Africa, however, told CARmag.co.za it plans to stick with the Indian-built Polo Sedan currently offered locally, rather than switching to either of the above.

Anyway, let’s take a look at Russia’s new model. It will be available with a 1,4-litre TSI engine as well as a naturally aspirated 1,6-litre unit offered in two states of tune. Manual and DSG transmissions will be offered.

The new Polo Sedan – which the Wolfsburg-based firm says has adopted a liftback body style (and reports suggest is closely related to the Skoda Rapid offered in that market) – features an upgraded grille, a new front bumper and a fresh rear diffuser, with the model name at the rear of the car now located directly below the latest VW logo.

While the SA-spec model measures 4 390 mm long, 1 699 mm wide and 1 467 mm tall, the new Russian version is considerably larger (at 4 483 mm long, 1 706 mm wide and 1 484 mm tall). In addition, space for rear passengers has ostensibly been iincreased, and the luggage compartment volume hiked by 90 litres to 550 litres. Ground clearance, meanwhile, has been increased to 170 mm.

Halogen headlamps have been ditched for LED items across the range, while the foglamps are now integrated into the main unit. Inside, you’ll find a screen measuring either 6,5 or 8,25 inches (depending on the trim level) along with a new seat upholstery design. The top-spec model can be specified with VW’s 10,25-inch active info display.

Original article from Car