Volkswagen Gol sedan is one of the most popular and famous cars in Brazil. Its history goes back 42 years: the production of the first generation began in 1980, and initially air-cooled boxer engines from Zhuk were installed on the cars.
In 2004-2006, Gol was even supplied to Russia under the local name Volkswagen pointer. And in his native Brazil, from 1987 to 2013, it was an all-time bestseller. Since 2008 in service Third generation goal, and has undergone several updates over the years. But now the story has come to an end: already in December, Volkswagen will stop producing the Gol model.
At the separation, a series of 1000 cars will be released in a special version of the latest edition. Such cars have all possible options for the model, as well as black decals on the body, plastic wheel arch extensions and red decor in the cabin. On the front panel there is a plate with the serial number of the special series machine.
Gol’s direct heir is also presented. This time the concern did not develop the original model, so the new basic model of the Brazilian lineup was the Volkswagen Polo Track – that is, a simplified version of the well-known Polo hatchback on the MQB platform. It debuted in Europe in 2017 and the Brazilians launched it almost immediately adapted version with its own set of power units.
Polo Track differs from “regular” Polo only in plastic equipment and plumage. The company did not remodel the five-door body. The Track version has simpler bumpers, a large mesh grille, halogen headlamps and 15-inch steel wheels with hubcaps. The trunk volume is the same at 300 liters as in previous versions. Under the hood is a three-cylinder 1.0 MPI engine (84 hp) and a five-speed “mechanics”, there are no other options.
The salon has not been specifically streamlined, but the equipment is not rich. There are basic tools, manual mirror adjustment, plastic steering wheel rim, seats with integrated headrests and plenty of plugs. Standard equipment includes four airbags, ESP, air conditioning, electric power steering, central locking and electric front windows. The only option is an audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and steering wheel buttons.
Interestingly, the Volkswagen Polo Track will be produced in the Taubate plant, where the Gol is still produced, although the “regular” Polo is produced in another plant in Sao Bernardo do Campo. The Taubat plant has already been modernized: the conveyor has been adapted for cars on the MQB platform, 80 new robots have been installed, and laser welding has appeared. The Polo Track will hit the local market in January for R$79,990 ($15,020). Now the Gol costs the same in a comparable configuration, but the “regular” Polo is a bit more expensive: at least 82,990 reais ($15,580).
