Rendering - Next generation 2017 VW Polo

The Polo would resemble the Golf.

German publication Auto Bild has rendered the 3-door and 5-door variants of the next generation VW Polo that will enter production in March 2016.

The renderings suggest the Polo successor to be a grown up hatchback with a taller roof and Golf-like design elements. By 2016, VW's new design language (which premiered on the new B8 Passat) would have found its place on cars like the Polo, the publication adds.

Part of the reason for the new Polo's larger dimensions could boil down to the fact that in markets like Asia where the Polo is seen as a family car, the current generation model doesn't offer the best of space, especially at the rear. Even in its home market, the Polo's competitors like the new i20 and Honda Jazz (Fit) have grown in size from their predecessors.

It is be imperative for Europe's largest carmaker to design a more spacious hatchback than the current generation model.

Also read: India-only VW compact sedan could be revealed next year

As reported earlier, the new Polo will be based on the Group's MQB architecture boasting of a stiffer structure and a lighter body weight. Given the modular nature of this architecture, a compact SUV based on the new Polo's platform is also in the reckoning.

Competitors: Honda Jazz, Fiat Punto, Maruti Swift, Hyundai Elite i20
Expected Price: INR 4.75-8 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2016 in Europe

[Renderings from AutoBild]