Tuning company, ABT, is marking the 40th anniversary of the Volkswagen Polo by creating a potent three-door version with 230hp. The performance upgrades are part of a new line called 'New Generation' that in addition to boosting power levels also include suspension tuning and aesthetic tweaks.
The first Volkswagen Polo came with just 40hp and even though its current 1.8-litre TSI engine produces 192hp ABT has increased this power output to 230hp while also boosting torque to 360Nm - quite a lot for a small three-door hatchback. These power increases come through specially developed engine software.
ABT has also paid attention to the handling aspects of the car by fitting new suspension components that lowers the car by 2mm at the front and 30mm at the rear. Unlike the original Volkswagen Polo that came with 13-inch steel wheels, this ABT polo rolls on new 18-inch alloy wheels that come shod in sticky 215/35 R18 rubber that should provide plenty of turn-in grip. Other performance features include a new sports exhausts system that has two centrally exiting pipes.
Inside and out there are also a number of aesthetic enhancements from ABT including a carbon panel over the third brake light and carbon rear diffuser. Detailed touches include entrance LEDs that incorporate the ABT logo as well as specific floor mats.
Anything else?
If a 1.8-litre TSI engine is a little too much for the Volkswagen Polo you want to tune, ABT also offers a performance upgrade pack on the smaller 1.2-litre TSI. This sees power increase from the standard 110hp to 140hp with torque output growing to 220Nm over the regular 175Nm.