The all-new Polo-based rally car, the Polo GTI R5, will be ready by mid-2018. Built to WRC2-spec, the four-wheel drive Polo will be belting out around 270bhp of power.
The R5 category of the cars are powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with the horsepower restricted by a 32mm intake restrictor. Also, the car costs are capped at 1.8 lakh Euros (approx. Rs 1.4 crores) to ensure a level playing field for privateers trying to compete with the factory teams.
After winning four driver as well as constructor championships on a trot from 2013 to 2016, VW decided to pull out of WRC. But if you think the German is planning to GO back to its winning ways, it is not happening.
The Polo GTI R5 will be ready by the second half of 2018 and will be sold to private teams competing in the WRC2 category. You already have the Skoda Fabia R5, the Citroen DS3 R5, the Ford Fiesta R5 and the upcoming Proton and Toyota competitors in fray. VW will provide the privateer teams with spares and other support but not service.
The Polo GTI R5 will also be sold to other customers outside the World Rally Championship for customers who would want to participate in the International Touring Car championship, European Rally Car Championship and other events. If you want a R5 as a personal toy, you might be able to get hold of one as well.
