USED Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (02 - 05)

My car

Having bought the car used from a local dealer with only 7000 miles on the clock, the last thing I expected was to be taking the car in for repairs after 48 hours.

On investigation, it was discovered that the cam sensor had failed causing the engine to cut out at motorway speed. The dealer even ridiculously tried to sell me a CD multichanger, which was standard equipment.

Two months later and it was yet another trip to the dealer for a new wheel bearing for the rear and a new rear wiper arm, which had decided to break for no reason.

The onboard computer still does not work after three attempts by the dealer. When the 20,000-mile service was carried out, I was told that new front discs and pads were needed, also new antiroll-bar bushes were needed. The total bill for the second service was £500.09.

You would expect the car to have been valeted, but no. As I type, I am waiting yet again to take the car in for more repairs. The paint finish has deteriorated on the driver's mirror and rear bumper.

If you are in the market for a new supermini, I wouldn't look at the new Polo. VW was one of the car brands that stood for quality and reliability but it seems that the Japanese have the Germans licked! Enough said!

My car

This is my second one and it's simply the most reliable car I've owned same as first one. I've had 42 new cars in the past 24 years used them all for my driving school.

The 1.9 Twist lacks a tiny bit of power but tuned it goes up to 75bhp and an increase in torque makes it so much more fun. For fuel, it returns an impressive 72mpg, which beats others hands down.

Just buy one today. If you don't like it, give it to me, I love 'em.

My car

Good solid car, but build quality isn't what I expect for a VW as the plastics feel cheap.

The performance is poor, but once on the motorway it is smooth and comfortable to drive.

My car

This is my fourth Polo and second of the new model. It's quick off the mark, comfortable, practical and has that good old Volkswagen reliability. There are plenty of big-car extras without all the fanfare and fuss, but hey its a VW, safe, reliable, comfortable and economical. VW have excelled, I will never drive anything else.