VW Reintroduces the Harlequin Polo as a Rally Car for Gravel Tracks

      Volkswagen

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      I’m a straightforward guy. Whenever I spot a harlequin Volkswagen, it brings a smile to my face. As a longtime enthusiast of most VW models (though not all—looking your way, ID.4), I have a particular fondness for the harlequin-themed cars featuring panels in different colors, a VW tradition that dates back 30 years. In celebration of the Polo's 50th anniversary, VW UK chose to commemorate the hatchback by wrapping a 2018 Polo R World Rallycross show car in a similar design.

      For those unfamiliar with Volkswagen’s history, the Harlequin Polo was introduced in 1995 due to high consumer interest. The previous year, VW had showcased a Polo with body panels in various colors; only nine of these were produced to highlight VW’s modular manufacturing at that time. The overwhelming demand for those nine vehicles led the brand to put the Polo Harlequin Edition into production, resulting in a total of 3,806 units sold in Europe. Given the strong demand in North America as well, VW decided to bring a similarly colored Golf across the ocean, and the rest is history.

      Volkswagen

      Here are the specific names for the colors used in the harlequin cars: Chagallblau (Chagall blue, Pantone code LD5D), Flashrot (Flash red, LP3G), Ginstergelb (Ginster yellow, LR132), and Pistazie (Pistachio, LD6D).

      Recreating that multicolored look for this Polo rallycross car was an ideal way to celebrate the Polo. While there have certainly been more thrilling Polos over the past 50 years, including several GTI models, the Harlequin Edition stands out as the most distinctive. In fact, it’s one of the most unique vehicles ever created. Despite there being a Golf version, it was the Polo that started it all, making this homage especially fitting for the model’s 50th birthday.

      Volkswagen

      Why choose a Polo R rallycross car instead of a standard road version? The Polo was among the most successful rally cars of its time, winning the World Rally Championship four consecutive years from 2013 to 2016, and clinching the World Rallycross title six times since 2017. While this 2018 rallycross version differs significantly from the WRC model, it still looks fantastic in harlequin colors. Some might argue it's even more appealing than the road cars from the '90s, thanks to comic-book-style graphics that enhance its visual appeal and complement the body lines. It also boasts a low profile, stylish wheels, and an impressive carbon fiber rear wing, which certainly adds to its allure.

      I’m delighted that VW took this step, as it pays tribute to three of the brand's successes: the Polo itself, the iconic Harlequin series, and its rallying achievements. Although you can still see Polos in World Rallycross, the hot hatch hasn't competed in the WRC for several years. Regardless, it would be exciting to see this one showcase its vibrant colors on a racetrack or special stage.

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