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  • Western & Barnetts Volkswagen Celebrates 50 Years of the Polo with Eye-Catching Harlequin Race Car

GTI World Celebrates 50 Years of the Polo with Eye-Catching Harlequin Race Car

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Volkswagen Polo, GTI World is thrilled to join the celebration of this beloved supermini with the unveiling of a bold new race car livery – a nostalgic tribute inspired by one of the Polo’s most iconic looks.

Revealed at the popular Bicester Motion Spring Scramble, the stunning livery adorns a 2018 Polo R World Rallycross (WRX) show car, capturing the spirit of the Polo's motorsport pedigree and rich design history. The design was chosen by fans in a global social media poll and draws inspiration from the quirky and much-loved 1990s Polo Harlequin.

Featuring a vibrant mix of Chagall Blue, Flash Red, Ginster Yellow, and Pistachio Green, the new livery pays homage to the original Harlequin model – a true collector’s favourite – while adding a bold, pop-art twist for 2025. It's a colourful tribute to five decades of a model that’s brought joy to millions of drivers worldwide.

Polo Through the Ages on Display

In addition to the show-stopping WRX car, Volkswagen presented a rainbow of Polo history at Bicester, including:

  • A classic 1975 Polo GLS Mk1 in Inari Silver, representing the very first generation.
  • A vibrant Mk2 Polo in Cherry Red, turning heads with its timeless charm.
  • The sporty Polo GTI and stylish Polo Black Edition, showcasing how far the model has come – blending performance, technology, and modern design.

With over 20 million units sold globally, the Polo continues to be a favourite for families, first-time drivers, and motorsport fans alike.

Mike Orford, Head of PR and Communications at Volkswagen UK, summed it up perfectly:
“The Polo is a car that connects generations – whether it was your first car, a family runaround, or a championship-winning rally icon. It’s fantastic to see its 50th celebrated in such a bold and creative way.”

The Harlequin-themed WRX show car is set to feature in special Polo 50th events throughout the year, and we at GTI World can't wait to share more with our customers as the celebrations continue.