Volkswagen has unveiled a special edition of the Polo R WRX rally car, featuring the iconic Harlequin livery, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Polo model. The car made its debut at the Bicester Scramble event, attracting significant attention with its retro-inspired color scheme. This is a variation of the original Harlequin pattern, first introduced on the third-generation Polo in 1995, and it combines four bold colors: Changall Blue (blue), Flash Red (red), Ginster Yellow (yellow), and Pistachio (green).
Volkswagen has confirmed that several Polo rally cars will wear this distinctive livery at special events later this year. The Harlequin design was initially created to highlight the modularity of the Polo model. The concept was simple: if a part of the car, such as a door panel, were to get damaged, it could easily be replaced with another color without disrupting the overall look of the vehicle.
The original Harlequin Polo caused quite a stir when it was first revealed, with many people hoping it would become a production trim. Volkswagen responded to the demand by producing a limited edition of 1,000 cars, and since then, the unique livery has been applied to various models, including the third-generation Golf.
Volkswagen’s playful take on the Harlequin concept, now applied to the Polo R WRX, pays homage to the brand’s history while offering a fresh and vibrant look for its rally cars. Enthusiasts are likely to see these eye-catching cars tearing up loose gravel in the months ahead, bringing a sense of fun and nostalgia to the world of motorsport.
Volkswagen Celebrates 50 Years of the Polo: A Journey of Innovation and Success
Since its introduction in 1975, the Volkswagen Polo has become a staple of affordable mobility, timeless design, and cutting-edge technology. Over the course of six generations and more than 20 million units sold, the Polo has consistently demonstrated that a small car can make a big impact. In 2025, Volkswagen marks the 50th anniversary of this iconic model, which has earned its place as one of the most successful compact cars in history.
The Birth of a Legend
In the mid-1970s, Volkswagen was looking to replace the Beetle with a new generation of cars. Following the launch of the Passat in 1973 and the Golf a year later, the Polo made its debut in 1975. Unlike anything before it, the Polo was compact yet refined, offering a new level of versatility in the small car segment. Positioned beneath the Golf, the Polo was a perfect addition to Volkswagen’s growing family of front-wheel-drive vehicles. Its combination of size, affordability, and practicality made it an instant hit.
A Car for Everyone
The Polo quickly became known not only for its technological innovations but also for its ability to offer affordable mobility to a wide range of customers. With state-of-the-art features and an attractive price point, the Polo has served as the perfect vehicle for first-time drivers, families, and those seeking sporty driving pleasure. Its adaptability has allowed it to create lasting memories for generations, and it continues to evolve as a reliable and versatile companion for future drivers.
A Fresh Approach: The Early Days
When the Polo first hit the market in 1975, it was based on the Audi 50 and produced in Wolfsburg under the Volkswagen name. It provided a breath of fresh air in the small car segment with its modern, clean design and high functionality. The Polo was efficient, practical, and economical, yet it also offered excellent handling and a fun driving experience—qualities that would become a hallmark of the model over the years.
The Evolution: Six Generations of Progress
Over the years, the Polo has seen continuous development. The second generation, introduced in 1981, brought improvements in space, comfort, and engine performance. In 1987, the Polo Coupé GT G40 introduced a supercharger for added power. The third generation, launched in 1994, marked a technological leap, with the Polo becoming one of the first vehicles in its class to offer innovative safety features like airbags. In 1998, the Polo GTI debuted, combining sportiness with everyday practicality.
The fourth generation, arriving in 2002, offered a new level of comfort and safety with features like front and side airbags, power steering, and ABS. The fifth generation, starting in 2009, ushered in a digital era with infotainment and assistance systems that made driving easier and more enjoyable. In motorsport, the Polo R WRC made history by winning four consecutive World Rally Championship titles starting in 2013. The sixth generation, launched in 2017, set new standards for connectivity, safety, and driving dynamics. The 2021 product update made the Polo even more digital and innovative, introducing advanced assistance and comfort systems typically found in higher vehicle classes.
A Living Legacy
To celebrate the Polo’s 50th anniversary, Volkswagen Classic will showcase historic models from its collection throughout the year. The Bremen Classic Motorshow, taking place from January 31 to February 2, 2025, will kick off the celebrations. Two iconic early models will be on display: a 1975 Oceanic Blue Polo L and a one-of-a-kind hill climb Polo from 1977.
The Polo’s evolution over the past five decades showcases its ability to adapt and thrive, proving that small can indeed be big. As Volkswagen celebrates this milestone, it looks forward to continuing the legacy of the Polo with even more innovative designs and features for future generations.
