26.05.2022

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Review - Share The Ride 1

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Review - Share The Ride

26 May 2022

Quick Links To The Volkswagen Polo Vivo Review

  • VW Polo Vivo Overview
  • VW Polo Vivo Trim Options
  • VW Polo Vivo Performance & Drive
  • VW Polo Vivo Interior & Design
  • VW Polo Vivo Safety & Technology
  • VW Polo Vivo Range FAQs
  • Additional Resources On The Polo Vivo Review

If you would like to learn more about the Polo Vivo range, you can get an overview of the vehicles in the Polo Vivo Review video below:

Polo Vivo Range Overview

The Volkswagen Polo Vivo is one of the most popular vehicles in South Africa and for a good reason! In 2023 the Polo Vivo still holds the position of the best-selling passenger car. This impressive hatchback has the style and design of the original Polo Vivo Sedan, with a more affordable price tag. The Polo Vivo hatchback is known for its variety of features that make it the perfect choice for someone who wants it all. The Vivo covers all the bases – safety, style and performance.

A hatchback is one of the best cars for urban driving as it is easy to manoeuvre in tight parking spots or winding city streets. Some may see the smaller body as a drawback. However, the Polo Vivo hatch offers ample interior space and comfort. The Polo Vivo also has a great boot space for its compact design. You can confidently drive with confidence when you need to travel with luggage, knowing that nothing will have to be left behind. If you are interested in weighing up the pros and cons of a hatchback versus a sedan, you can check out this article from Motor Trend.

The Polo Vivo range is also fuel-efficient, with three different fuel consumption settings to ensure that you get the most kilometres from your tank! For example, the Polo Vivo 55kW Trendline only consumes 4.5l/100km on extra-urban. This does not mean that the Polo Vivo is leaden-footed – it is surprisingly speedy for its small stature and builds! Now that you know a little about the Polo Vivo range, we can jump into specifics.

[Prices & Options in this article were effective as of 01 January 2023 and subject to change without prior notice.]

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Trim Options

There are plenty of options to choose from when deciding which Polo Vivo Trim Level to purchase! There is an entry-level vehicle, a mid-level vehicle, a premium-level vehicle and a GTI TSI vehicle. Depending on what you are looking for, there is sure to be an option that suits you.

Trim LevelRecommended Retail Price
Polo Vivo
Polo Vivo 55kW TrendlineR248 500
Polo Vivo 63kW ComfortlineR269 600
Polo Vivo 77kW HighlineR299 600
Polo Vivo 77kW Comfortline TiptronicR299 600
Polo Vivo 81kW TSI GTR336,100

Polo Vivo Hatch 1.4 Trendline

White-Polo-Vivo-Hatch-1.4-Trendline

Polo Vivo Hatch 1.4 Comfortline

Reef-Blue-Polo-Vivo-Hatch-1.4-Comfortline

Polo Vivo Hatch 1.6 Highline

Reflex-Silver-Polo-Vivo-Hatch-1.6-Highline

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Hatch 1.6 Comfortline Auto

Reef-Blue-Polo-Vivo-1.6-Comfortline-Auto

Polo Vivo Hatch 1.0 TSI GT

Polo Vivo Hatch 1.0 TSI GT

CFAO Mobility Volkswagen is proud to be an authorised stockist of VW vehicles in South Africa. We currently have all of the Polo Vivo range available across the country. Additionally, we ensure that we carry all of the latest vehicles from VW, the famous German Automaker, to ensure you have a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments!

Please note that this review article serves as a general overview of the VW Polo Vivo range as a whole, with no particular focus on any specific model. For full details on one of the Volkswagen Polo Vivo models, we invite you to contact your nearest CFAO Volkswagen dealer to speak to our accommodating sales staff.

VW Polo Vivo Performance & Drive

New-Polo-Vivo-Driving-On-A-Highway-Bridge

If there is one thing that the Polo Vivo is known for - it has to be its signature speed. Although it can be easy to underestimate this vehicle as a common hatchback, its punchy performance sets it apart. The entry-level model, the 55kW Trendline comes with an impressive torque of 130Nm at 3,750 revs per minute. While that is a good starting point, if you’re looking for more power you may want to consider the 77kW trim lines or the 81kW TSI GT. The Polo Vivo GT has an incredible torque of 200Nm at 2,000 revs per minute - providing unparalleled power in the hatchback division.

The top speed of each Polo Vivo variant:

Trim Level Top Speed (km/h)
Polo Vivo
Polo Vivo 55kW Trendline 171
Polo Vivo 63kW Comfortline 177
Polo Vivo 77kW Highline 188
Polo Vivo 77kW Comfortline Tiptronic 188
Polo Vivo 81kW TSI GT 196

When considering the power and speed of a vehicle, it is impossible to not compare its fuel efficiency. As we have mentioned, the Polo Vivo Hatchback is incredibly economical. Across the trim levels, the fuel consumption starts from as low as 4 litres per 100km in extra-urban mode and up to 8.5 litres per 100km, in combined mode. Of course, if you need to view the full information, you can download the brochure here for free or read our specs overview

Polo Vivo Interior & Design

polo-vivo-interior-cockpit

Polo Vivo Interior

The new Polo Vivo has an interior that is a step above the usual urban hatchback. Many urban vehicles lack interior characteristics and accrue additional costs for features. However, the Polo Vivo Hatch comes standard with a host of useful features at no extra cost. Each variant comes with different cloth seat trims and the Vienna leather seat trim is optional on the Comfortline, Highline and GT variants.

Standard features across the Polo Vivo range:

  • Electronic rev counter
  • Digital clock
  • Digital trip recorder
  • Front door pockets
  • Height- and reach-adjustable steering column
  • Passenger vanity mirror
  • Manual anti-dazzle rear view mirror
  • Power steering
  • Air-conditioning

Polo Vivo_ Infotainment_App Connect

Volkswagen Polo Vivo Design

The design of the Polo Vivo is derived from the original Volkswagen Polo. This new model has a modernised exterior, with clean and sharp lines across the bonnet and the sides of the car. The Polo Vivo Hatch has a friendly ‘face’ with elegant and upturned headlights for eyes and a standard grille that resembles a wide smile. Every variant has colour-coordinated bumpers to the main vehicle colour. There are a variety of alloy wheels available for each respective trim line. The metallic and pearlescent paint is offered for each vehicle variant at no extra cost.

The Polo Vivo is offered in the following colours:

  • Reef Blue (metallic)
  • Limestone Grey (metallic)
  • Reflex Silver (metallic)
  • Pure White

A “black style package” is also available as an optional exterior upgrade for the Comfortline and the Highline. You can see an example of the stylish package below.

Black Style Package

Reef Blue_Polo Vivo_With_Black Style Package

Safety & Technology In Polo Vivo

Polo Vivo Technology

The Polo Vivo may be a classic Volkswagen car, but the technology is ahead of its time. As stated by VW South Africa “The Polo Vivo is equipped with more digital features than any other small car in its category.” Some of the technological features of the Polo Vivo include:

  • A Multi-Function Steering Wheel with Shortcut Buttons
  • High Tone Hooter
  • Lights on Warning Buzzer
  • Power Steering
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Electric Windows
  • Digital Trip Recorder

The Polo Vivo’s modern technology can also be elevated with the optional addition of We Connect Go and the VW DataPlug. This combination allows you to find your car easily (perfect for large city parking lots), record vehicle journey paths with the fuel costs – and so much more.

close up of polo vivo interior with Steering wheel and cruise control

New-Polo-Vivo-Interior-Seats

Polo Vivo Safety

The Polo Vivo Hatchback is one of the safest urban cars on the market! Every vehicle comes with driver and passenger airbags, childproof locks on rear doors, high-level brake lights and ISOFIX mounting points for children’s seats. This ensures that everyone who rides in the Polo Vivo is safe and sound whilst on the road.

Optional Safety features include:

  • Front fog lights
  • Parking package
  • Electronic stability control
  • Tyre pressure monitor
  • Lights and vision package
  • LED headlights package

The Polo Vivo range also includes a wide range of security features that come standard such as:

  • Immobiliser to prevent car theft
  • Alarm with remote central locking
  • Ultrasonic alarm sensors

Polo Vivo Review FAQs

How much is Polo Vivo Monthly?

When buying with CFAO Mobility VW, you can pay as little as R 4,343 pm for a Polo Vivo Hatch 1.4 Trendline. The Polo Vivo Hatch 1.0TSI GT starts at R5,874 per month. Please visit our website if you’d like full details on the Polo Vivo monthly instalments.

Is the Polo Vivo a reliable car?

The Polo Vivo did not earn its place as the most popular passenger car in South Africa for no reason. The Polo Vivo range is dependable. This vehicle is made from the best parts and materials in the world and is built to last. If you want to secure your car’s longevity you can invest in a VW EasyDrive service and maintenance plan.

What is good about the Polo Vivo?

There is a lot to love about the Polo Vivo. This vehicle has incredibly efficient fuel consumption coupled with punchy power. Not something that all hatchbacks can claim! The Polo Vivo also has a timeless design with a kitted-out interior that makes everyday driving comfortable and convenient.

Is a Polo Vivo better than a Polo?

The Polo Vivo and Polo are both great cars – the only way to judge which is better is to consult your vehicle wishlist. If you are looking for a more affordable vehicle, the Polo Vivo will suit your needs better. However, if you are not constrained by a budget, the new and advanced Polo might be your first choice.

Looking for a Polo Vivo for sale?

New-Polo-Vivo-GT-Rear-Shot

The new Volkswagen Polo Vivo is a sensible investment. Whether it is your first car or your fourth, you are bound to be impressed. If you’re looking for a Polo Vivo, please contact us. CFAO Mobility VW is a certified Volkswagen Dealership. Click here to see what our customers say about our services on our customer review page.

Do you have a Volkswagen Dealer near you? We have an easy-to-use online tool that helps you to locate a VW dealership in your area.

If you’d like to know more about the VW Polo Vivo range, or any other Volkswagen vehicle, please do not hesitate to contact us!


Read More About The Volkswagen Polo Vivo

  • VW Polo Vivo Price
  • VW Polo Vivo Specs
  • VW Polo Vivo Interior & Exterior
  • VW Polo Vivo After-Sales