what makes a great student car?
December 2024
Whether in your hometown or a city far from familiar surroundings, the prospect of beginning your tertiary studies can be less stressful with the knowledge that your car is designed and engineered to complement your busy new schedule.
But what makes a great student car?
Size
Unlike the modern family car, an ideal student car needs to be compact, lightweight and easily manoeuvrable, considering the generally tight surroundings of a university or college campus. With available parking at a premium, a traditional small hatchback is perfectly suited to negotiating narrow interleading streets and congested parking facilities. The availability of modern conveniences like park sensors and a reverse camera is a boon.
Versatility
Studies aside, what better place to forge new lifelong friendships and relationships with like-minded individuals? With trips to either the library or a spontaneous “study break” weekend away in mind, aim to make your car the one that offers comfort, security and packing space available to accommodate your new crew.
Safety
Often overlooked until you need it the most, is your car installed with an appropriate level of advanced equipment required to keep you safe in the event of an accident? This includes stability control, ABS-assisted brakes and modern airbag technology – all of which are most effective when complemented by a well-built, solid vehicle structure. Designed and developed by Volkswagen Group Africa, the Polo Vivo boasts a 4-star Global NCAP crash test rating for Adult Occupancy Protection and a three-star rating for Child Occupancy Protection.
No DNA, just RSA
Proudly assembled in Kariega in the Eastern Cape since 2018, the second-generation Volkswagen Polo Vivo remains one of the most popular compact hatchbacks available on the South African market and a trusted companion to thousands of students across the country. Packaged on the multiple award-winning fifth-generation Polo, the modern Vivo boasts advanced safety systems and proven powertrains lauded for combining reliability with efficiency. The Polo Vivo is proudly South African; its concept, marketing and continuous local development are supported by various local suppliers and contributors.
Efficiency
You’ve got better things to spend your money on than fuel. A good student car lets you visit the late-night convenience store, without needing to stop on the forecourt for petrol. Contributors to overall efficiency – and, as a result, a noteworthy driving range between visits to the fuel station – include a suitably lightweight vehicle construction and refined, proven powertrain technology.
Reliability
What value would you place on having peace of mind and knowing your car won’t let you down when you need it the most? This is where a proven track record in terms of a brand’s reputation for reliability, but also for after-sales service, dealership network and the availability of replacement parts should they be required, play a key role in the decision-making process.
Available from R266 600, the recently updated Volkswagen Polo Vivo The updated Polo Vivo range is offered in five derivatives, including a base model known as Vivo, two examples of Life specification – a 1.4-litre manual and a 1.6-litre automatic - a Style version and the flagship GT.
Available in alluring exterior colours including Ascot Grey, Reef Blue, Reflex Silver, Smokey Grey and Wild Cherry Red, all models are fitted with striking updated bodywork and the newest Volkswagen design language. Fresh alloy wheel designs are available, and an optional Black Style Package can be ordered.