We drive the popular VW Polo Life DSG

The VW Polo Hatch keeps getting better and better.
The VW Polo Hatch keeps getting better and better.

The Polo has always been a solid offering from VW, and the facelift 6th gen is no different. We recently got to sample the VW Polo Life DSG. The facelift gets some exterior and interior trim updates.

Our chariot was finished in a rather bright Vibrant Violet metallic (we call it the Hollywood Bets specs – go figure). Part of the update for the Polo is a new bumper design with new fog lights, rear bumper design with reflectors, and new taillight design. Overall its a great looking hatchback. One of the most welcomed new features is the optional LED matrix headlights which are a dream.

Inside you get new seat trim and interior inserts, and multi-functional steering wheel. The seats are quite comfy but what brings the car down is the vast use of plastic which is a bit overkill. Overall, a great place to be in. The optional sunroof also adds some ambiance go the cabin.

Powering the Polo Life DSG is a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine which produces 85kW/200Nm. It’s paired to a 7-speed DSG. The Polo is a fun little car to drive, it does city and highway driving effortlessly. VW claims 5.4 l/100 km and we managed an impressive 5.7 l/100 km. We have to point out though that it does suffer from turbo lag low down, but when its up to speed overtaking isn’t an issue. Adaptive Cruise Control (part of the optional Safety Package) is a must especially when driving on heavy traffic on a daily.

The Polo Life DSG starts from R370,000 which is not exactly cheap but, in terms of a package and the tech it features the Polo is worthy of being one of the best sellers on the market.

Malusi Msomi
Lover of all things cars. Automotive photographer, freelance motoring journalist and founder of one of the biggest social media automotive communities in the country, DBN Spotter. My world revolves around three words; Drive, shoot, write.