Volkswagen beats up Polo

Volkswagen Group Australia has released a Polo 'beats' special-edition featuring a host of audio and cosmetic additions for $2000 more than the mid-range Polo 81TSI Comfortline on which it is based.

Just 400 examples will be made available in Australia, with prices starting at $21,990 drive-away for the six-speed manual, seven-speed DSG dual-clutch auto versions costing $2500 extra and Pearl Effect paint ($500) and Driving Comfort package ($1900) being the only other options.

Extras include a 300-Watt sound system co-developed with US audio specialist Beats Electronics, comprising two tweeters, two woofers and two full-range speakers, plus a subwoofer and eight-channel amplifier, all integrated with VW's Composition Media infotainment system (distinguished by a ‘beats’ logo on the home screen) and App-Connect.

Cosmetic upgrades include two-colour ‘beats' design lower body side decals and ‘beats’ badging on the B-pillar, contrasting door mirrors, darkened tail-lights, 16-inch 'Syenit' alloy wheels, a high-gloss black grille, leatherette door trims, ‘beats’ badging on the front speakers, 'beatsaudio' branded front door sill plates, seat belts with red stitching, and front comfort sports seats with 'shooting star' cloth trim, grey Alcantara-trimmed side bolsters and beats logos.

Each car also comes with a set of red beats Solo headphones, which Volkswagen says "can be enjoyed when the Polo is parked".

Otherwise the equipment list is as per the regular Polo 81TSI Comfortline, including Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, reversing camera and a 81kW/175Nm 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine.

The Polo beats is the latest in a series of Volkswagen special editions released recently in Australia, including the Scirocco R Wolfsburg, the Beetle Classic and the Golf GTI 40 Years special-editions.

Volkswagen Polo ‘beats’ pricing (plus ORCs):
Manual -- 21,990 driveaway
DSG -- $24,490 driveaway
Pearl Effect paint -- $500
Driving Comfort package -- $1900