What appears to be the all-new 2018 VW Polo was recently spotted in South Africa without a shred of camouflage, possibly giving us an early-bird look at the sub-compact model.

The images where sourced from a reader of Cars.co.za which says support previous claims that the new Polo will grow in size leading to improved cabin space compared to the outgoing model, helping it go against the all-new Ford Fiesta, Kia Rio and Citroen C3.

Based on the new MQB-A0 platform, the new VW Polo will utilize a range of updated engines, with a new 1.5-liter TSI petrol unit (128 HP & 148 HP) tagged to replace the old 1.4-liter TSI. Entry-level versions are said to get a 1.0-liter three-cylinder petrol, available with multiple power ratings – 64, 74, 94 and 113 HP to be precise; whereas diesel models are expected to benefit from an updated 1.6-liter TDI.

The range-topping Polo GTI is rumored to get over 200 HP from a 2.0-liter TSI unit, but an upgrade of its current 1.8-liter engine remains a possibility. In terms of gearboxes, buyers will be able to choose between 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions, with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox aimed at higher-spec models.

Sources say the new Polo will come with a better-built interior, featuring all the gadgets and gizmos VW feels comfortable throwing at it. This means a digital instrument display, large touchscreen infotainment screen and a wide array of active safety systems – all of which could power the new Polo towards the top of the supermini segment.

The all-new VW Polo is scheduled to debut at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Thanks to Sabelo for the heads up!

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