Volkswagen Polo Hatchback full 9 point review
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Performance
Entry-level petrol power comes from ageing 1.2-litre three-cylinder engines with either 59 or 69bhp. The 1.4 is better, while the torquey 1.2 turbo makes the Polo genuinely satisfying to drive. Diesel power is taken care of by 74 and 89bhp versions of a 1.6-litre unit, but the emphasis is on economy rather than performance.
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Ride & Handling
The Polo isn't as much fun as a Ford Fiesta because there's a fair amount of body lean through bends and the feather-light steering has clearly been set up to make things effortless rather than entertaining. However, the Polo is still reassuring to drive, because the body roll is quite progressive and the steering consistent. Bumps can cause a bit of bounce, but the ride is generally good.
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Refinement
Some wind noise builds up at motorway speeds, but road noise is kept to a minimum and the 1.2 turbo engine has so much oomph that you rarely need to rev it. The 1.4 is pretty refined, too, but the entry-level 1.2s are at best an acquired taste and at worst downright noisy. The diesels are disappointingly clattery and transmit some unpleasant vibrations through the pedals.
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Buying & Owning
The Polo may be a premium product, but it's not expensive to buy or run. Emissions are low and miles per gallon are high - especially on the diesel versions - and its list price actually undercuts those of many mainstream rivals. What's more, no supermini has a better image or is as desirable. All this means the Polo has some of the best residual values of any supermini.
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Quality & Reliability
There's little to rival the Polo for image at this end of the market, and all models have an impressively upmarket feel with dense, soft-touch plastics covering the dashboard and door trims. Despite their reputation, Volkswagens generally have a so-so reliability record.
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Safety & Security
Reassuringly, all Polos have six airbags and ESP as standard, and this new model has scored five stars and an excellent 90% overall rating in the Euro NCAP crash tests. The usual deadlocks, visible vehicle identification number plate and security-etched parts are all present, as is stability control. However curtain airbags are a cost option.
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Behind The Wheel
There are few superminis to rival the Polo's simplicity and fine ergonomics. Clearly labelled instrumentation, large dials, buttons and switches, plus a well-ordered centre console make it a doddle to navigate. There's a massive range of adjustment for the driver's seat and steering wheel, while all-round visibility is excellent.
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Space & Practicality
Regardless of the model you choose, you'll be guaranteed a spacious and airy cabin. There's plenty of room for four people, and the large expanse of glass ensures everyone gets a good view. There's also a decent boot with a false floor that can be removed to create a surprisingly deep hold. You can lift the rear seat bases and fold down the seat-backs to create enough space to satisfy most of your needs.
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Equipment
The Polo's trims are badged S, Moda, SE and SEL. S models are pretty basic, but do get front electric windows and a CD player. Moda models add alloy wheels, electric rear windows and an MP3-compatible stereo, but you need to specify a dearer-still Moda A/C version to get air-con, while climate control remains an option. SE and SEL models have upgraded upholstery and trim.
Polo used car reviews
Volkswagen Polo Hatchback 1.4 85 SE 5dr
This is the Polo to go for - our 2010 Supermini of the Year. It has the best engine, and you get all the kit you need at a fairly reasonable price.
Read review
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