Volkswagen has unveiled the all-new Polo GTI R5
following a preview last month. Introduced in Spain, the Polo GTI
R5 is a turn-key rally car that was designed to compete in the R5 class
alongside rivals such as the Citroën DS3 R5, Ford Fiesta R5, and Skoda Fabia
R5.
As part of the transformation from street car to
rally car, the Polo has been outfitted with an aggressive body kit includes a
sportier front bumper, extended fender flares, and a large rear spoiler. The model
has also been equipped with lightweight wheels, a roll cage, and an assortment
of safety equipment.
Motivation is provided by a turbocharged 1.6-liter
four-cylinder engine which produces 272 PS and 400 Nm of
torque. It is connected to a five-speed sequential racing transmission that
sends power to permanent four-wheel drive system. This enables the 1,320 kg rally car to rocket from 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.
The Polo GTI R5 will be homologated next summer and
the first deliveries are scheduled to occur shortly thereafter. If everything
goes according to plan, the car should celebrate its racing debut next fall.
