Kariega, South Africa – Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) has reached a significant milestone at its Plant Kariega, celebrating the production of the two millionth Polo, just shy of the model’s 30-year anniversary at the facility.
The milestone car, a smoky grey Polo destined for Australia, rolled off the production line earlier this month, marking nearly three decades of Polo production at Plant Kariega. Since the launch of the Polo Classic in 1996, when the plant produced 5 460 units, the Polo has become a cornerstone of VWGA’s local and international operations, spanning four distinct generations.
Of the two million Polos manufactured to date, 592 840 were made for the South African market, while 1 407 160 were exported worldwide. In 2025 alone, Plant Kariega produced 112 386 Polos, including 8 274 Polo GTIs, further highlighting the plant’s ongoing contribution to both local industry and global markets.
Since July 2024, Plant Kariega has been the sole Volkswagen facility exporting the Polo to Europe and Asia-Pacific regions, delivering vehicles to more than 30 countries. The Polo also earned the distinction of South Africa’s most exported car last year, reinforcing its role as a global ambassador for local automotive excellence.
“It has been a year of milestones for Plant Kariega, but achieving this one is a very proud moment for the Home of Polo,” said Ulrich Schwabe, VWGA Production Director. “Contributing to the global success story of the Polo is a privilege for our team, and this is evident in the dedication of our employees, who have made this milestone possible.”
The two millionth Polo serves as a testament not only to Volkswagen’s enduring legacy in South Africa but also to the ongoing commitment of Plant Kariega to innovation, quality, and global automotive leadership.
