Volkswagen Polo hatchback (2009 – ) expert review

1. Exterior

The Volkswagen Polo has adopted the sharp-nosed attitude of the Volkswagen Scirocco thanks to a distinctive grille and headlights. It’s a less curvy Polo than its predecessor, which gives it a more upmarket look and the feeling of a miniaturised Golf. The BlueMotion model gets tweaked body trim, unique lightweight alloy wheels and sits lower to make it more aerodynamic.

Our rating: 4

2. Interior

The Polo is an extremely grown-up supermini, which successfully manages to feel like a bigger car than it is. The dashboard is made from quality materials, and unlike in some rivals, this attention to detail can also be seen around the rest of the cabin. The black dials with white graphics are simple but attractive, as are the easily laid-out knobs and switches. Some may find it boring compared with the funkier interiors of the Fiesta and MINI, but it has a functional, upmarket charm of its own.

Our rating: 5

3. Practicality

The boot size sits between rivals at 280 litres, being slightly smaller than the Fiesta’s, but bigger than the Toyota Yaris‘ 272 litres. The rear seats fold down to give extra load space. Around the cabin there are useful door bins and cubby holes, as well as several cup holders and a chilled glovebox.

Our rating: 3

4. Ride and handling

The Polo doesn’t have suspension as advanced as the Fiesta’s, and it shows on really demanding roads, where the Fiesta is better overall. That’s not to say the Polo isn’t great fun to drive, even if its steering is a little light. Ride comfort is also very good, ironing out the worst bumps quietly and comfortably, while the gear change is slick and precise.

Our rating: 4

5. Performance

Being such a big-seller, there are several engines available. There’s a 1.2-litre petrol with 60 or 70bhp, and a 1.4-litre with 85bhp. While 60bhp is just adequate around town, we wouldn’t recommend it for anyone using the motorway regularly. The 1.4-litre is a good all-rounder with respectable performance, but for those willing to pay extra, the 1.2-litre TSI turbo petrol blows it out of the water. Despite its small size, its 105bhp really does make the Polo fun to drive. Even better is the Blue GT 1.4-litre petrol, with 138bhp and cylinder deactivation technology. The standard diesel is a 1.6-litre with 90bhp, which is refined and feels powerful. BlueMotion models get a 1.2-litre three-cylinder diesel which, while being hugely economical, is a little noisy and needs working hard to make decent progress.

Our rating: 4

6. Running costs

All versions of the Polo offer low running costs, though it is the amazing BlueMotion version that steals the show with CO2 emissions of 91g/km and the ability to average 83mpg. The standard 1.4-litre petrol is the least efficient, emitting 139g/km of CO2 and averaging 47.9mpg. All three diesels average more than 65mpg and emit less than 112g/km of CO2, meaning overall the Polo range is one of the most economical of any available. A Blue GT joined the range at the end of 2012, with incredible technology allowing the engine to switch between running on two and four cylinders. This means you get sporty performance when required, but an average economy of 60.1mpg and emissions of just 108g/km of CO2.

Our rating: 5

7. Reliability

Despite its newness, we’re confident in the Polo’s reliability. It’s excellently built and features robust engines and transmissions featured in other models, including the SEAT Ibiza, Skoda Fabia and new Audi A1.

Our rating: 4

8. Safety

The Polo achieved a full five-star score in Euro NCAP crash tests, making it one of the safest cars in its class. Four airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability programme (ESP) are standard on every Polo.

Our rating: 5

9. Equipment

The entry-level S trim Polos are very basic, with equipment including central locking, front electric windows, boot-mounted 12V socket, luggage hooks and a four-speaker CD player/radio. Match trim adds air-con, electric and heated door mirrors, a six-speaker CD player/radio, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, remote central locking, split-folding rear seats, USB and iPod connectivity and body coloured exterior trim. Top-of-the-range SEL models feature a perimeter alarm, front centre armrest, ambient lighting, leather trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, multifunction trip computer, tyre pressure indicator and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Blue GT model gets 17-inch alloys, a body styling kit, black roof lining, sports seats and Polo GTI instruments.

Our rating: 4

Why buy?

The Volkswagen Polo is a car bought with the head. It has a timeless quality, thanks to its subtle design and build quality. Volkswagen is a company at the top of its game, with versions like the BlueMotion and cylinder deactivating Blue GT perfectly showcasing its design and innovation.

Our rating: 5