Volkswagen Polo Turns 50: A Legacy of Innovation and Affordability to Be Showcased at Bremen Classic Motorshow

(IN BRIEF) Volkswagen celebrates 50 years of the Polo, an iconic small car that has sold over 20 million units across six generations since its debut in 1975. Renowned for its affordability, quality, and innovation, the Polo has become a global bestseller, evolving with each generation to include advanced safety features, digital technology, and motorsport achievements. Volkswagen Classic will kick off the anniversary celebrations by showcasing historic Polo models at the Bremen Classic Motorshow 2025, including a 1975 Polo L and a unique hill climb Polo from 1977.

(PRESS RELEASE) WOLFSBURG, 27-Dec-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The Volkswagen Polo, a model that has consistently set benchmarks in the small car segment since its debut in 1975, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. Known for embodying Volkswagen’s core principles of quality, safety, and comfort, the Polo has become a global success, with over 20 million units sold across six generations.

To honor this milestone, Volkswagen Classic will showcase early Polo models at the Bremen Classic Motorshow 2025, running from January 31 to February 2. Among the highlights will be a 1975 Oceanic Blue Polo L and a rare hill climb Polo from 1977, offering enthusiasts a nostalgic glimpse into the evolution of this beloved car.

A Revolutionary Start in the 1970s

The Polo emerged in an era of transformation for Volkswagen, as the company transitioned from the iconic Beetle to a modern lineup. Following the launches of the Passat in 1973 and the Golf in 1974, the Polo made its debut in 1975, offering an unprecedented combination of compact dimensions and refined design. Positioned just below the Golf in size, it filled a vital niche in Volkswagen’s portfolio and quickly gained popularity.

Fast forward to today, the Polo continues to thrive, demonstrating that small cars can combine versatility, innovation, and charm. Its enduring appeal is evidenced by its global sales and iconic status.

Making Mobility Accessible

From its inception, the Polo has been a symbol of affordable mobility paired with cutting-edge technology. Its practical design and fair pricing have made it accessible to a wide range of drivers, whether serving as a dependable first car, a sporty companion, or a reliable family vehicle. Generations of drivers have created lasting memories with the Polo, a testament to its universal appeal.

A Legacy of Innovation and Adaptation

The Polo’s success lies in its ability to evolve while staying true to its core values. The original model, based on the Audi 50, introduced a clean design, efficient engineering, and outstanding functionality. These attributes resonated with the zeitgeist of the 1970s and have remained integral to its identity.

Subsequent generations have built on this foundation:

• Polo II (1981): Enhanced space, comfort, and engine options.
• Polo III (1994): Introduced innovative safety features like airbags, setting new standards in its class.
• Polo IV (2002): Focused on size, comfort, and safety with features like ABS and power steering as standard.
• Polo V (2009): Integrated digital innovations, including advanced infotainment and assistance systems.
• Polo VI (2017): Leveraged the modular transverse matrix (MQB) for enhanced connectivity, safety, and driving dynamics. A 2021 update further elevated its technological sophistication.

The Polo’s motorsport achievements also deserve mention, with the Polo R WRC dominating the World Rally Championship from 2013 to 2016.

Celebrating the Past While Looking Ahead

Volkswagen Classic is marking the Polo’s golden anniversary by curating a series of exhibitions and events throughout 2025. The Bremen Classic Motorshow will serve as the starting point, offering fans a unique opportunity to explore the Polo’s history through meticulously preserved models.

For more insights, stories, and high-resolution images documenting the Polo’s legacy, visit the Volkswagen Newsroom at www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/50-years-of-Polo.

Media contacts

Enrico Beltz
Head of Content & Classic Communication
Tel. +49 (0) 1520 1660658

Christian Tinney
Spokesperson Polo I T-Cross I Taigo | Conventional drive systems | Alternative drive systems | Transmission
Tel. +49 (0) 151 29263119

SOURCE: Volkswagen Group