SPY PICS: Volkswagen pumps up Polo

Volkswagen's next Polo is said to be in line for quality upgrades, extra interior space and big-car in-cabin technology.

As the first car to be built on the AO platform, which is the smallest version of the Volkswagen group's MQB architecture, the sixth-generation Polo will benefit from a longer wheelbase, stretched from 2470mm to around 2560mm. That's way longer than the original Golf, which measured 2400mm. Translating to added interior space between the axles, the longer wheelbase is offset by shorter front and rear overhangs to keep the overall body length close to the current car's sub-four metre measurement.

The outcome should be greater legroom, particularly for back-seat passengers, although what will happen with the boot, given the expectation overall length won't change all that much, is cause for speculation.

Word is that the Polo is in line for a big quality upgrade too, intended to lift the little VW above the bulk of its competition, while in-cabin technology will move a step or two closer to that of the Golf 7. It has been mooted a touch-screen display measuring as much as 9.5 inches will feature in a control panel that supports smartphone connectivity and app integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Internet access is expected to be available on top-line models.

The engine line-up is expected to comprise 1.0-litre three-cylinder and 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol and diesel variants, all turbocharged except for the base 56kW 1.0-litre. Turbo three-cylinder variants are anticipated to produce 75kW and 86kW. It's believed the turbo-petrol will be offered in 104kW and 119kW form, while it's thought the 1.6-litre turbo-diesels will come in three states of tune producing 67kW, 82kW and 97kW. The spy photographers reckon the mild hybrid reportedly planned for the next Golf update will not find its way into the Polo, largely for cost reasons.

Gearboxes should include a manual five-speeder at the bottom of the range, switching up to a six-speeder, then to a seven-speed DSG.

The spy photos of what appears to be a Ford Focus ST-challenging GTI variant snapped in California's Death Valley give little away other than the suggestion that the Polo's basic shape will pretty much echo those of the current car, although it is considered likely that Golf 7 and other new-VW influences will be evident.

The Polo will spawn a number of Volkswagen Group light cars including Audi A1 and Skoda Fabia, and all are reported to be in line for a funds-saving, standard wheelbase measurement.

The next-gen Volkswagen Polo should arrive in Europe towards the end of 2017, indicating Australia should start seeing the classy new light car early in 2018.