Next Volkswagen Polo to be revealed this week

Volkswagen says it will officially unveil the 2017 Polo this June 16 at 9.00am (GMT) on a live streaming event on Youtube.

Already caught completely undisguised by our spy photographers, the live event is expected to be more about the technical details of Volkswagen's sixth-generation supermini.

From the images we've already seen, it's clear VW's approach to designing its small hatch has followed in the tyre tracks of the most recent Golf. That means, instead of starting from a clean sheet of paper, designers have carefully evolved the Polo's conservative lines.

Biggest changes over the current car are a fresh new bumper design, new headlamps, revised grille and a boxier rear hatchback.

According to our insiders, liberating cabin space has been a chief priority with the new Ford Fiesta rival.

Interior quality is also set to be a game changer for the segment.

Under its new skin lies the small AO platform that is spun-off the versatile MQB matrix that underpins the current Golf.

The new architecture is not only stiffer and lighter than the current Polo's undergarments but also allows for a longer wheelbase and shorter front and rear overhangs.

Expect the latest VW hatch to also measure in at just less than 4.0 metres in length.

Under the bonnet, the new engine line-up comprises of a 56kW 1.0-litre three-cylinder naturally aspirated unit plus 1.5-litre TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines varying in outputs.

Gearbox choices for the latest Polo include a five- and six-speed manual, plus a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Top of the VW supermini tree will be the Polo GTI that instead of downsizing, like the next Ford Fiesta ST, will trade its existing 1.8-litre turbo for a larger 2.0-litre turbo straight from the Golf GTI. Expect at least 150kW.

On sale in Europe within six months, our cars should arrive in Australia early 2018 with the Polo GTI to follow on later.

Watch the live stream here: