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

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Volkswagen Polo, Western & Barnetts Volkswagen 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 Western & Barnetts Volkswagen can't wait to share more with our customers as the celebrations continue.