The Volkswagen Polo took on the Maruti Suzuki Baleno and the Hyundai i20, among others.
New Delhi: Volkswagen has revealed that the company has no immediate plans to reintroduce the Polo in the Indian market, citing challenges in justifying the business case.
According to Ashish Gupta, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India Brand Director, the company currently has no plans to reintroduce the Polo or its new generation variant available in other markets. This decision is based on market dynamics, pricing considerations, and the company’s business case. While acknowledging the significance and affection associated with the Polo brand, Gupta expressed openness to possibilities in the future, considering the dynamic nature of the automotive market and the potential for premiumization trends in India. Despite a decline in the hatchback segment due to fierce competition from SUVs, premium hatchbacks continue to maintain demand. Notably, in January 2024, the Baleno sold 19,630 units, followed by the i20 with 7,083 units, Altroz with 4,935 units, and Glanza with 3,740 units. However, Volkswagen remains firm in its decision, emphasizing the challenging business case for reintroducing the Polo in India under the current product and regulatory framework, particularly dealing with the sub-4 metre rule.
Although Volkswagen recognizes the Polo’s iconic legacy and the demand for premium hatchback models, the company does not see reintroduction as a viable option presently. The decision is rooted in the complex considerations related to market dynamics, pricing, and the existing regulatory landscape. However, with the automotive market’s unpredictable nature, Volkswagen remains open to future possibilities that may align better with the evolving trends in the Indian market.
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