VW targets reliability in 2016 updates

Volkswagen has fine-tuned its all-conquering Polo R to increase reliability as it heads into next week’s opening round of the 2016 FIA World Rally Championship at Rallye Monte-Carlo (21 - 24 January).

The car’s front sub-frame has been strengthened, as have the rear suspension wishbones on the gravel-specification version to improve stability. The pistons have also been modified in the engine, which is otherwise identical to that used last year.

“The opposition has not been sleeping, and has modified its cars for the new season,” said motorsport director Jost Capito. “So have we, of course.

“You have to bear in mind that the regulations in the World Rally Championship only allow a few modifications within a homologation period. Thanks to this stability, it is possible to challenge for the title for several years with an existing car, making only detailed improvements. That is precisely our goal for 2016,” he added.

The Polo R, which will again be entrusted to reigning champion Sébastien Ogier, Jari-Matti Latvala and Andreas Mikkelsen, also shows changes to the outside, with white front wings designed to give a more beefy look.