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Used test: Ford Fiesta ST vs Volkswagen Polo GTI costs
Buy either of these hot hatches at a couple of years old and you'll save a pretty penny, but which is more fun and better value? We have the answer...
Buying and owning
Costs, equipment, reliability, safety and security
New, the Polo would have set you back around £800 more, but bought at a couple of years old, as here, there’s little in it in terms of purchase price.
The two cars are evenly matched for fuel costs, insurance and road tax, too, but the Fiesta will cost you a fraction more to service, with a three-year bill coming in at a predicted £1010 as opposed to the Polo’s £880.
As far as reliability goes, in our most recent survey, the standard Fiesta finished in 17th place in the small car category, while the standard Polo finished in 15th. Similarly, as brands Ford was 18th out of 31 and Volkswagen 20th.
In these range-topping trims, both cars come well equipped. The Fiesta features a heated steering wheel and front seats, which the Polo counters with LED headlights and adaptive cruise control, while both come with keyless entry.
In terms of safety, both have five-star ratings from Euro NCAP, but the Polo scores better for adult, child and pedestrian protection. The Fiesta ST wasn't available with automatic emergency braking (which was standard on the Polo), although it’s alone in having lane-keeping assistance.
Best estate cars 2024 – the top choices for luggage capacity
An estate car needs to be practical, but the best models are also comfortable, well equipped and affordable to run. Here we reveal our top 10 buys – and the estates to steer clear of
