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Polo Hatchback

Volkswagen Polo Hatchback 1.2 TSI 105 SEL 5dr Review

For The VW Polo 1.2 TSI 105 SEL averages an impressive 53.3mpg, and the rest of the package is as desirable as as on any other Polo. Range-topping SEL trim has all the bells and whistles that the Polo has to offer.

Against This engine comes only with the top trim level, which means it's a very expensive option

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

The VW Polo 1.2 TSI 105 SEL is a great version of a great car. It's just a shame that it's so expensive

What Car? readers say

4.285714

Key facts

0–60mph: 9.7 secs
Top speed: 118 mph
Average mpg: 53.3
Tank range: 528 miles

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Features

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Size

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View the whole Volkswagen Polo Hatchback range

Cheaper

More expensive

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The full Volkswagen Polo review

Performance
3 out of 5 stars
Varies wildly, so choose carefully
Ride & Handling
4 out of 5 stars
More safe and secure than fun
Refinement
4 out of 5 stars
Some engines let it down
Buying & Owning
4 out of 5 stars
Affordable and good resale values
Quality & Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
All versions look classy; so-so reliability
Safety & Security
3 out of 5 stars
Standard stability control across the range
Behind The Wheel
5 out of 5 stars
Looks and feels great
Space & Practicality
3 out of 5 stars
Spacious and airy
Equipment
4 out of 5 stars
Cheaper trims are pretty basic

Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

There’s plenty of choice with engines, but we wouldn't bother with the three-cylinder 1.2 petrols; they’re underpowered and noisy. The 84bhp 1.4 is much more like it – smooth, cheap to run and reasonably affordable – while the 1.2 turbo is even easier to live with, if a bit pricey, and the GTI uses a turbocharged and supercharged 1.4.

The 1.2- and 1.6-litre diesels give good fuel economy, but they’re slow, expensive and noisy. If you’re a company car driver, you’re better off with the petrol Blue GT, which uses clever cylinder shut-off technology to keep CO2 emissions remarkably low.

Entry-level S models miss out on some essentials such as remote locking and air-conditioning. You get both if you go for dearer Match trim, which is our favourite.

SEL cars get a little more kit for a lot more money, so they’re not worth the extra. R Line gets extra kit and sporty aesthetic touches and the GTI model comes with bigger 17-inch alloys and sports suspension.