VW announced in September that it has ended production of the Polo in Europe, after four decades and 8.4 million units produced, as the current sixth-generation model, launched in 2017 and updated in 2021, was deemed at risk due to upcoming emissions regulations set to take effect in Europe.
However, the German brand seems determined to keep the Polo in its lineup on the Old Continent, and therefore, Kai Grünitz, head of VW’s research and development department, has now confirmed to “AutoCar” that the Polo will undergo a “comprehensive update” in 2025, scheduled to coincide with the launch of the new Euro 7 emissions regulations.
The VW representative did not provide details about the update for the utility vehicle but suggested that the solution may involve the inclusion of “mild hybrid” versions in the range, possibly utilizing the already available 1.0 TSI and 1.5 TSI engines, along with a refreshed design and plenty of technology.
However, not all versions of the Polo will move forward with an update, as the GTI variant may not be produced again due to strict emission standards. In this regard, VW is preparing the ID.2 GTI, which will be fully electric and is expected to arrive in 2026, promising enough power to please the brand’s enthusiasts.
It is already known that the small model from the German brand, which was produced in Pamplona, Spain, until September, will now be manufactured at VW’s factory in South Africa, while the Spanish factory will be prepared to build two new small electric models.
