When Volkswagen introduced the fourth generation of the Polo in 2002, it didn’t make it a GTI, and the small hot-hatch fans remained disappointed until 2005.
Along with the facelifted version of the Polo’s fourth generation, the carmaker re-introduced the GTI version as well. It offered more power than its predecessor, and it was a pocket-rocket that could outpace many cars on the road and still managed to keep a decent fuel consumption. It was like Santa Claus in July. Unless it was unveiled in October at the Australian International Motor Show. The recipe was simple: take the three-door version, stuck the biggest engine it fits inside the engine bay, and call it a day.

Volkswagen used the three-door version of the Polo hatchback, with the new, wider headlights. Its front fascia featured a big, V-shaped, black grille with a red stripe on the upper side. In the apron, the carmaker installed two side-scoops that hosted the fog lights and a pair of fake air intakes. Its longer doors and the fixed rear windows were carried over from the 3-door Polo, while at the back, a small roof-spoiler adorned the top of the liftgate.

Inside, the carmaker chose the upholstery better and mounted bolstered seats at the front. The three-spokes steering wheel sported a silver badge with GTI lettering. But there were no white dials or screaming-for-attention elements. The only unique feature was the aluminum pedals.

Under the hood, Volkswagen installed the same 1.8-liter turbocharged engine used for more cars, such as the Audi A3, Audi TT, Volkswagen Passat, or Skoda Octavia RS. It provided 150 hp and was paired to a five-speed manual only. Later on, a Cup edition received an upgraded version with 180 hp.