Polo based Volkswagen CrossPolo likely to Launch by 2013 end in India

Volkswagen India which is planning to launch the 1.2-litre petrol version of its flagship hatchback, Polo replacing the older 1.6-litre variant, is also planning to bring in the off-roading capable CrossPolo in India to excite touring/off-roading lovers. Seeing Indians love towards Mini-SUVs or off-roading adequate vehicles, Volkswagen is doing preparations to bring in the Polo-based crossover, which not only looks rugged, it has all what it takes to make everyone fall for it. We are expecting it to launch by the last quarter of 2013. What has helped the vehicle to become rugged both in looks and nature are 15mm more height than the existing polo, 17-inch alloy wheels, black plastic moulding around the wheel arches, bumpers, and side sills. It also gets the silver anodized roof rails.

The rugged-sporty character of the CrossPolo - always produced as a five-door - are reflected in many of its details. Especially striking: the individually styled front apron - in anthracite colour - with integrated front fog lights and large air inlet at the centre. It gets a black honeycomb insert bordered by fine chrome trim. Towards its lower edge, the bumper finishes with a section in light silver with the visual appearance of under-body protection. Taken from classic Polo styling are the upper radiator grille with its chrome inlay and the VW logo integrated here; the same applies to the dual headlights with standard daytime running lights.

The side profile of the CrossPolo also shows very tough qualities. Here sporty black wheelarch extensions and coordinated body sills set the styling. The latter continue visually into the lower door area. In off-road driving and in the jungle of metropolitan parking spaces, these rugged plastic guards protect the car from damage. Fitting the character of the CrossPolo are the 17-inch alloy wheels ("Budapest" style) in 5-spoke design with size 215/40 tyres.

Another unmistakable characteristic of the CrossPolo is the silver anodized roof rails. They are a traditional feature on this model, and are certainly not just decorative. They can be used to mount roof boxes and carrier systems with a weight of up to 75 kilograms. Colour coordinated with the roof railing, like on the previous model: the door mirrors that are always painted in silver. At the rear, the CrossPolo continues the rugged all-terrain look in the bumper, whose lower section is also designed in a black, rugged plastic. At its centre, a separate section painted in silver catches the eye that is styled to look like a diffuser.

The new CrossPolo also shows off its versatile talents when it comes to space and efficient space utilisation. As mentioned, the rear bench can be folded with a standard 60:40 split. When it is completely folded, the car's cargo capacity increases from 280 to 952 litres. The dual cargo floor - adjustable to two height levels - creates a continuously level loading surface. Four tie-down eyes simplify secure fastening of the cargo to be transported, while two hooks in the side trim panels keep bags from tipping over.

Volkswagen CrossPolo is expected to be the first car to get the company's 1.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which is exclusively made for India. As far as the pricing is concerned, we are expecting it to be priced around Rs. 7 lakh to compete against the likes of Renault Duster. Stay tuned to CarDekho for more updates on the same. Cheers.

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