VW Polo Refuses to Disappear Without an Extremely Smoky Show | Carscoops

      This Ken Block-inspired video was filmed at the South African factory where the Polo is manufactured.

      The thrilling clip features the VW Polo WRC and the fully electric RX1e Rallycross vehicle.

      Johan Kristoffersson also makes a brief appearance driving the current VW Polo GTI in the short film.

      Recently, VW revealed that its new electric hatchback will be dubbed the ID.Polo.

      This year marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic VW Polo, and before it is transformed into an EV, the automaker has chosen to celebrate its milestone with an energetic Gymkhana-style video. For a brand generally known for its conservative approach, this short film offers a refreshing perspective for car enthusiasts, demonstrating that the automaker can still create excitement among fans.

      While the VW Polo is often regarded as a compact and somewhat unexciting hatchback that is unfortunately not available in the United States, it boasts a rich racing history, having competed in the World Rally Championship and claiming multiple victories. The video features two Polo WRC race cars, recently adorned with special celebratory liveries, performing stunts close to and within the South African factory where the Polo is produced.

      In the driver's seat is Johan Kristoffersson, who isn't hesitant to push the Polo WRC to its limits, taking it off jumps at high speeds and drifting smoothly around obstacles. One such obstacle is a road-going Polo, showcased driving on just two wheels as it nears a parking spot.

      In the second part of the Gymkhana film, Kristoffersson exits one car and takes the wheel of the Polo RX1e. This vehicle has been developed specifically for the FIA World Rallycross Championship and is powered by two electric motors that together produce 670 hp and 649 lb-ft (880 Nm) of torque. Kristoffersson is well-acquainted with this car, having won the world championship with it in both 2022 and 2023.

      As the video unfolds, the stunts continue until the racer finds himself in the factory, briefly driving the current Polo GTI through a parking area before stopping next to a prototype of the new ID.Polo.

      “In our communications regarding the Polo anniversary, we aim to reflect on the past while also looking ahead to generate excitement for the Volkswagen brand,” stated VW's head of communications, Jens Katemann. “This is why we intentionally chose to unveil the ID. Polo in a spectacular and unexpected manner. This video embodies everything essential about the Polo: a compact car capable of remarkable feats and oriented towards the future.”