VW will mark the Polo's 30th birthday by releasing a new one, to be officially unveiled at the Leipzig show in April. These are the first teaser pics of the new car showing clearly the marque's new face and a completely different front end compared to its predecessor. These changes have increased the Polo's overall length by 19mm to 3916mm though the width and height remain the same as the current car's.

In common with the outgoing version the new Polo will be available with a wide range of engines including five petrol units ranging from 55 to 100PS and four diesels ranging from 70 to 130PS. Rumours abound of a higher-powered petrol RS version to follow in the near future. Also carried over from the current car will be the excellent interior quality. The new Polo should lead its class in terms of materials, fit and finish.

The new Polo goes on sale across Europe in April with UK sales starting in June. The Car Enthusiast will be driving the new Polo this summer, so watch out for the review on the main Road Tests page.

Dave Jenkins - 30 Mar 2005