PoloDriver

The classiest supermini is now also the safest. The new Polo has been subjected to the latest round of Euro NCAP crash tests, and has received the best possible score of five stars. Proud of its new baby, Volkswagen put together an unbeatable safety package early in the car’s development consisting of an optimised body structure, a highly effective seatbelt and airbag combination and driver-assist systems.

The safest compact car in the world (according to VW), the new Polo was subjected to a controlled collision with a barrier at a speed of 64km/h. The passenger cell remained virtually undamaged, and the crash dummies told a similar story; occupant protection and child safety were optimal, proof of a structurally rigid body achieved through the use of high and ultra-strength steels in the side structures and footwell.

The new small VW also scored highly when it came to pedestrian safety. Pedestrian safety requirements were taken into account when developing the fifth-generation of the Polo, and the newly designed ‘harp’ sheet metal behind the front bumper cover provides the deformation space necessary to minimise the severity of leg injuries.

Finally, the electronic safety and assistance systems that contribute to accident prevention or avoidance were also subject to scrutinisation by Euro NCAP. ESP is standard in the new Polo, and in addition to the raft of airbags and front head restraints that counteract whiplash, further helped the high scoring of the car.