In 2010, Volkswagen South Africa announced that the Citi Golf would be replaced by the Polo Vivo in the supermini class. While the design language closely resembles the Polo and the Golf, it could even be mistaken for either one by laymen. It very much resembles an example of "if it is not broken don't fix it".
The Polo Vivo slid in neatly in the Citi Golf category as an easy drive, quality and affordable and very quickly experienced incredible local success as one of the best selling cars alongside the slightly bigger Polo. There are two generations on the roads, the first being the 2010 Citi Golf replacement whish was discontinued in 2018 with the launch of the updated 2018 Polo Vivo, both homegrown in Uitenhage with 70% of the parts locally sourced as part of Volkswagen’s drive to develop local suppliers. That in itself makes the Polo Vivo a unique vehicle.
Apart from an updated look and slightly smoother style, it was not only the price that went up slightly but also the offering, especially in terms of safety. All Vivo’s have power-steering and dual airbags as standard and upper trim levels offer ABS, anti-lock, central locking, radio with CD player and airconditioning. Definitely an improvement from the sturdy but less-than-comfortable Citi.
The Vivo is available in 3-door hatch, a 5-door hatch, and a four-door sedan. All power units are also South African built, making maintenance easier and slightly more cost-effective than some of its competitors that have to import parts. A variety of engine configurations are available.
The latest Polo Vivo 2018 model even more bells and whistles have been added, although the over-all design has stayed the same. The standard trim (Trendline) now has a tyre pressure monitor and hill hold assist. Optional extra's depending on trim level includes Isofix, ABS, remote central locking, alarm, foglights and Radio with USB, SD Card slot and Bluetooth. Opting for the higher trim or GT and you have added speakers as well as a colour touchscreen infotainment display.
It is important to keep in mind that the Polo Vivo is the Citi Golf's replacement and therefore not the same driving experience as the Polo or the Scirocco but it is sturdy, energetic enough and offers the mechanical reliability and performance that we’ve come to expect.
Fuel consumption for the Vivo varies slightly depending on the model with the youngest model boasting 4,6liters per 100km.
If you ever need a second hand or pre-owned Polo Vivo, simply browse through our list of Volkswagen Polo Vivo and make your purchase today!