THESE are the first official pictures of the new Volkswagen Polo - the sixth generation of one of Britain's favourite small cars which will be on the road later this year.

Looking very grown up and similar to the latest Golf, the new Polo features a range of smart features including a state-of-the-art digital cockpit.

Some four inches longer than the current model and three inches wide the latest Polo is five-door only, roomier inside and has a boot capacity up 25 per cent to 351 litres - almost as much as the Golf and significantly more than the current Ford Fiesta.

From launch a high performance GTi version will be available as will a Beats special with a 300 Watt high end sound system.

Initially the new Polo will be offered with a choice of petrol engine - a 1.0-litre three cylinder developing up to 115ps and VW's new 1.5 TSI Evo turbo which pumps out 150ps. The GTi is fitted with a 2.0-litre turbo with 200ps on tap.

There will be two 1.6-litre diesels with 80 and 95ps and the range will also be available with seven speed DSG semi-automatic boxes as well as five and six speed manuals.

Not only is the new Polo smart and sophisticated in styling its interior is a class above the supermini norm with the debut of the second generation of Volkswagen's Active Info digital instrument panel.

Operated from a single switch on the steering wheel a variety of information can be scrolled through and it's backed up by a central display screen ranging from 6.5 to eight inches depending on grade.

Connectivity includes Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and MirrorLink compatibility and the car can be specified with a wireless phone charger.

Driver technology includes adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, blind spot and rear traffic warning systems and automated parking.

Top specification models will also feature full LED headlights and overall VW will be making the Polo available in 14 different body colours with 13 alternative interior finishes.

The Polo first arrived back in 1975 and has become a stalwart of the British car scene. Worldwide it has notched up an incredible 14 million sales.

UK prices for the new line up are still to be announce but in Germany with car will cost from £12,975 euros which at current levels is under £11,500.