VW pokes Polo

Touted as the most powerful Polo to date, the GTI version is propelled by a 1.8-litre turbo engine that pumps out 110kW and 220Nm. VW claims this enables the pumped-up Polo to sprint from standstill to 100km/h in 8.2 seconds and, although academic here, top speed is quoted at 214km/h.

Externally, the Polo GTI gains many of the visual clues that distinguish the Golf GTI from its lesser siblings -- there's the honeycomb grille with red surround, aggressive front spoiler, bright red brake calipers, chromed tailpipes and lowered stance.

Interior upgrades include sports seats, red stitched seat belts, a three-spoke leather covered steering wheel and aluminium trim highlights.

Will we get the Polo GTI here? Maybe, says VW Group Australia spokesman Matthew Wiesner.

However, we are definitely getting facelifted versions of lesser Polo models -- in fact, they've just debuted at the Sydney motor show. The key change is the addition of a diesel model. Priced from $22,990 (making it the cheapest diesel passenger car), the Polo oil-burner scores a 74kW/240Nm 1.9-litre TDI engine and comes with six airbags, anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.

Also making an appearance at the Sydney show is the all-new Jetta range (which replaces the Bora), but it won't go on sale until February.