Volkswagen Polo Hatchback 2002 - Present

The Volkswagen Polo has been rolling on England's streets for the last three decades. During this time it's often been seen as the Golf's little brother, synonymous with a quality small car and a good build but unfortunately no model with the reckless streak of the Golf GTI.

During the last ten years both of the smaller models of the VW range have grown and grown up. The New Polo is similar in size to the Golf of the 80s and the Golf has grown to match. The result is a super mini that offers a good level of room inside and a healthy sized boot. There is room for 4 adults to travel in relative comfort and if required, three children in the back. It offers a decent option to sit between a city car and a small family car. The headroom is more than adequate for all but the tallest passengers and legroom similarly generous.

The engine options are two 1.2-litre, three-cylinder petrol engines, 54bhp and 65bhp They offer a smooth delivery of power and, despite not being very powerful, offer a decent level of performance. There are also two 1.4 16v units and a 1.4 FSI direct-injection both of which offer a more expansive if not especially exciting drive.
The diesel options are four turbodiesels: two 1.4s of 69bhp and 80bhp, and a pair of 1.9 TDIs 100bhp and 130bhp. They all offer power throughout the rev range and miserly fuel consumption figures ranging from the high 50s up to an inflation beating 74 mpg.

The VW Polo has been with us for a long time and for good reason. It's an economical, reliable car that you can get the family or friends in without using a shoehorn. It's never been anything to arouse the interest of the hot hatch lover but the engines are willing and always powerful enough. If you want a steady supermini it's always worth considering but probably not if you want any excitement.

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