1.0 TSI Life Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 6 (s/s) (95 ps)

The VW Polo does a great job of combining a smart, comfortable and roomy interior with good driving manners. While it has a higher list price than some small cars, that’s largely offset by competitive monthly finance rates and strong resale values. However, hybrid rivals offer better fuel economy and the Skoda Fabia is even more comfy and refined. We’d go for the 1.0 TSI 95 engine in Life trim.

Entry-level Life trim is actually our pick of the bunch. That’s because it keeps costs down but still gives you a good amount of kit, which includes 15in alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, rain sensing wipers, an 8.0in touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone mirroring and an auto-dimming rear view mirror. For extra comfort, we’d advise adding the reasonably priced adjustable lumbar support.

Our favourite Polo engine gives you 94bhp to play with and offers plenty of shove from low revs. It really shines when you’re driving around town, where it feels suitably nippy, but is more than happy at motorway speeds. It actually makes the more powerful 1.0 TSI 110, that’s available with the R-Line trim, look like an unnecessary expense.

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