Volkswagen has introduced a fresh iteration of the Polo Track in Brazil, christened as the Robust, tailored with insights gleaned from engagement with customers in the agricultural sector. While conventional wisdom might suggest a pickup like the Saveiro or the larger Amarok for farm use, the Polo Robust emerges as a compact and cost-effective alternative.
For those not attuned to Volkswagen's activities in South American markets, the Polo Track first appeared in 2022 as an economical subcompact hatchback, taking over the reins from the beloved Gol. Positioned beneath the standard Polo in terms of pricing and features, the Polo Track boasts redesigned bumpers, subtly tweaked lighting elements, and a more minimalist interior design.
Beneath its bonnet, there's continuity, with an unforced induction 1.0-liter MPI flex engine delivering a modest 83 horsepower and 101 Nm of torque. This powerplant remains the exclusive option for both the Polo Track and Robust variants, mated solely to a five-speed manual transmission channeling power to the front wheels. The "flex" nomenclature denotes the powertrain's versatility to operate on either petrol or ethanol fuels.
The compact hatchback showcases heightened ground clearance and an array of optional add-ons tailored to fieldwork. Externally, the Polo Robust resembles its Polo Track counterpart but stands slightly taller due to enhanced front and rear suspensions. This adjustment equips it to handle tougher terrains like gravel roads, albeit retaining its front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration. The lone visual distinction lies in the "Robust" branding on the tailgate. Standard features include 15-inch steel wheels adorned with black hubcaps, tinted taillights, and robust bumpers, akin to those found on the standard Polo Track.
Beyond its crossover-inspired stance, the VW Polo Robust offers two optional accessory packages, augmenting its utility and durability in agricultural settings. The initial package encompasses vinyl seat coverings, rubber floor mats, and a grille protector, tailored explicitly for rural locales and farms. The subsequent package builds upon the former, incorporating a rubber trunk cover and a hitch to facilitate the towing of small trailers or equipment.