A crossover version of popular hatchback Volkswagen Polo has been caught spy-testing in different parts of India. This appears to be a successor to Polo Fun, which is a mini Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV)-like hatchback. The current CrossPolo was showcased by German car maker Volkswagen way back in 2010. With the impending launch of the Ford EcoSport in June 2013, a possible introduction of the Polo crossover seems like an interesting proposition for the Indian auto market.
The height of the Volkswagen CrossPolo is slightly more than the Ford EcoSport. The ride height of the CrossPolo has been increased by 15 mm in comparison to the Polo Fun. From the image, a thick matte plastic can be seen across the vehicle. Wheel arches also seem to be fitted with the same plastic band while a scuff plate is also visible that looks dull silver in colour. The vehicle runs on 17-inch wheels and silver anodised roof rails can be seen at the top. Luggage up to 75 kg can be carried on the roof rails. In addition, this vehicle could also get a tail-gate mounted spare wheel, for lending that extra bit of muscle to the vehicle, apart from the looks of a mini SUV. However, as of now, it appears that the Volkswagen CrossPolo is still under development stages. It would qualify as a compact vehicle which would give it excise duty benefits, since it is less than 4 metres in length.
At present, Ford is close to launching its first compact SUV, the EcoSport, which has been generating a lot of hype since it was last seen at the 2012 Auto Expo. A competition known as Ford EcoSport Urban Discoveries Campaign was launched on various social media platforms, for engaging the domestic audience by the American auto maker. It will be launched during June 2013 and if the CrossPolo is revealed close to the same, it could start an interesting battle. Ultimately, the price of the new CrossPolo should decide its fate. The Ford EcoSport is expected to be priced between Rs. 6.5 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).
