Volkswagen Polo vs Seat Ibiza: verdict

The Seat Ibiza and Volkswagen Polo are the best small cars on sale. But which should you buy?...

Volkswagen Polo leading Seat Ibiza - 19-plate cars

Our verdict

Rarely are two cars so closely matched, despite having quite different strengths, but which should you choose?

Well, if your priorities are sharp handling and lavish equipment, we'd point you in the direction of the Ibiza. It is, without a doubt, a brilliant small car that majors on fun but has no major weaknesses.

But then neither does the Polo. Yes, it isn't quite as sharp, but neither is it sloppy. Plus, it's remarkably comfortable, classier inside and slightly cheaper on PCP finance. The margins are small, but the Polo wins the day.

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1st – Volkswagen Polo

Used Volkswagen Polo rear

For Comfier ride; smarter interior; less engine and tyre noise; cheaper PCP finance

Against Higher purchase price after discounts; sat-nav and cruise control cost extra

What Car? rating 5 out of 5

Read our full Volkswagen Polo review

Find a great Volkswagen Polo deal


1st – Seat Ibiza

Seat Ibiza rear - 19 plate

For More fun to drive; better equipped; big discounts; larger boot

Against Firmer ride; more hard interior plastics; pricier in the long run

What Car? rating 5 out of 5

Read our full Seat Ibiza review

Find a great Seat Ibiza deal


Specifications: Seat Ibiza 1.0 TSI 95 FR

  • Engine 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
  • List price £16,015
  • Target Price £13,876
  • Power 94bhp @ 5000-5500rpm
  • Torque 129lb ft @ 1500-3500rpm
  • Gearbox 5-spd manual
  • 0-60mph 10.1sec
  • Top speed 113mph
  • Gov't fuel economy 60.1mpg
  • True MPG 52.3mpg (WLTP)
  • CO2 emissions 104g/km (NEDC)

Specifications: Volkswagen Polo 1.0 TSI 95 SE

  • Engine size 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
  • List price £15,930
  • Target Price £15,325
  • Power 94bhp @ 5000-5500rpm
  • Torque 129lb ft @ 2000-3500rpm
  • Gearbox 5-spd manual
  • 0-60mph 10.2sec
  • Top speed 116mph
  • Gov't fuel economy 50.4mpg (WLTP)
  • CO2 emissions 105g/km (NEDC)

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