H&R racing suspension | The new Polo Cup surprises all along the line!

We have just completed two intensive days of testing with factory engineers and factory drivers. ‘In 39 years of racing, I have never experienced such an effective test programme,’ says Thorsten Willems. This little Polo shows everyone who’s boss.

Record-breaking efficiency

What became apparent during driving:

•  A driving experience almost on a par with TCR, but at significantly lower costs – only 40–46% of a TCR, and around two-thirds cheaper to maintain.
•  Completely without ABS, traction control or ESP – pure, demanding motorsport that requires real driving skill.

A technical masterpiece – well thought out down to the last detail

The Polo Cup 2026 is based on the VW Polo GTI (LHD).
Here are a few highlights:

•  Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder with 300 PS (220 kW) – deliberately tuned for moderate but thrilling performance.
• Particularly powerful: torque over 400 Nm, combined with an excellent power-to-weight ratio (weight only 1,170 kg).
• Sequential 6-speed gearbox with paddle shift, limited-slip differential – fast, precise gear changes and maximum traction.
• H&R racing suspension (RSN-48-707-5/1):
  Front: upside-down threaded strut with racing spring system
  Rear: monotube steel with racing spring system, standard springs,
  perfectly adjustable to different track conditions
• H&R wheel spacers
• Brake system: 6-piston calipers at the front with ventilated 380 mm x 34 mm discs,
  standard brake caliper at the rear with standard disc, brake force control valve
• Stable control: Balance bar brake, Tilton pedal box, high-quality racing wiring harness, Motec M142 ECU + Dash Logger – telemetry at the highest level.
• Safety: FIA safety cell, FIA bucket seat with 6-point harness, FIA fire extinguishing system, FIA window net – all standard.

Support is a top priority

Der Polo Cup ist nicht nur Rennserie, sondern eine echte Plattform für Fahrer auf jedem Level:

• Prize money of up to €60,000 plus numerous non-cash prizes.
• Training & coaching, including:

Driving coaching with drivers from Volkswagen Motorsport SA,

Press, media and interview training,

Data coaching/training & sports mental training.

• Driver exchange programme with Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa.

• Exclusive support programme for the ‘Rookie of the Year’.

• • Driving coaching with drivers from Volkswagen Motorsport SA,

  • Press, media and interview training,

  • Data coaching/training & sports mental training.

•  Driver exchange programme with Volkswagen Motorsport South Africa.

• Exclusive support programme for the ‘Rookie of the Year’.

Sustainability & goals

The goal is to revive the golden age of brand trophies in 2026 – cost-effective motorsport, equal conditions for all, pure driving pleasure.

Image source: Race photography by Denis P