The Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) 1.4 16V (75 Hp) Automatic: A European Supermini Standard-Bearer
The Volkswagen Polo IV, known internally by its platform code 9N, represented a significant evolution for Volkswagen’s popular supermini (subcompact) segment entry. Launched in 2001, this fourth-generation model continued the Polo’s legacy of offering a blend of practicality, robust build quality, and refined driving dynamics in a compact package. While never officially sold in the United States, the Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) 1.4 16V (75 Hp) Automatic variant was a popular choice across European and other international markets, serving as a reliable and efficient daily driver for countless motorists. It competed fiercely in a segment characterized by high demand for fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and accessible pricing.
The 9N generation of the Polo shared its underpinnings with other successful Volkswagen Group models of the era, including the SEAT Ibiza and Skoda Fabia, highlighting its importance within the conglomerate’s strategy for the small car market. This particular model, equipped with a 1.4-liter 16-valve engine and an automatic transmission, aimed to provide a comfortable and effortless driving experience, particularly suited for urban environments and longer commutes where ease of operation was prioritized over outright performance.
Engine and Performance of the Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) 1.4 16V (75 Hp) Automatic
At the heart of this specific Polo IV variant was a naturally aspirated 1.4-liter (1390 cm³) inline-four gasoline engine, featuring a 16-valve cylinder head design. This powerplant, identified by codes such as AUA, BBY, or BKY depending on the exact production year, was engineered for a balance of efficiency and smooth power delivery rather than exhilarating speed. It produced a modest 75 horsepower at 5000 rpm, which was a respectable output for a small car in its class at the turn of the millennium. Torque figures stood at 92.93 lb.-ft. (126 Nm) delivered at 3800 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for city driving and maintaining momentum on highways.
The engine’s configuration, with a front, transverse layout and multi-port manifold injection, was conventional for its time, ensuring reliability and ease of maintenance. The compression ratio of 10:1 was typical for a naturally aspirated gasoline engine, contributing to its fuel efficiency. Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain focused on driver convenience. While the 4-speed automatic was not as sophisticated as later multi-gear or continuously variable transmissions, it offered a smooth and predictable shift pattern, making stop-and-go traffic less taxing.
In terms of performance, the Volkswagen Polo IV (9N) 1.4 16V (75 Hp) Automatic was designed for practicality. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 14.5 seconds, with a top speed of approximately 104.39 mph (168 km/h). These figures underscored its role as a sensible commuter car rather than a performance-oriented hot hatch. Fuel economy was a strong suit, with an urban consumption estimated at 23.1 US mpg and an impressive extra-urban (highway) figure of 40.6 US mpg. This efficiency, combined with a 11.89 US gallon fuel tank, provided a commendable cruising range, a crucial factor for European buyers.
Design and Features
The Polo IV (9N) adopted a more mature and sophisticated design language compared to its predecessor, aligning it more closely with the larger Golf. It was offered in both 3-door and 5-door hatchback configurations, with this specific variant available in either, providing seating for five occupants. Its compact dimensions – a length of 147.36 inches, a width of 64.25 inches, and a height of 55.83 inches – made it highly maneuverable and easy to park in congested urban environments, a key advantage in its primary markets.
Despite its compact exterior, Volkswagen engineered the Polo IV to maximize interior space. The wheelbase of 94.76 inches contributed to a surprisingly roomy cabin for its class, offering comfortable seating for front occupants and adequate space for rear passengers on shorter journeys. The trunk space was practical, ranging from 8.65 cubic feet with the rear seats up to a generous 34.43 cubic feet when the rear seats were folded down, making it versatile for shopping trips or carrying luggage.
The suspension system featured coil springs at the front and a trailing arm
