Volkswagen Polo review
Volkswagen has just revealed an all-new Polo. It’s a far cry from the original model that arrived in 1974 as the Audi 50; within a year it had been rebadged as a Volkswagen.
Those first cars were well made but spartan and mediocre in most ways. Until the Mk5 appeared in 2009, that was pretty much what we expected of the Polo – a supermini that was solid, dependable, costly and devoid of flair.
But the fifth-generation version was much better to drive, generally well equipped and came with some superb engines. Now that it’s about to be replaced in dealers, the outgoing model makes a fantastic second-hand buy.
The five-door Polo Mk5 hatch arrived in October 2009; a three-door option came four months later. Initially there were 1.2 and 1.4-litre petrol engines, as well as a 1.6 TDI diesel; the 1.2 TDI and DSG automatic-only 1.4 TSI GTI were added in February 2010, the former in 104bhp or 74bhp BlueMotion forms.
The high-value Polo Match replaced the SE and Moda in July 2011; the sporty-looking R-Line appeared in April 2012, six months before the 1.4-litre 138bhp Polo GT.
Most Polos got extra standard kit from June 2013, a year before a facelifted car hit dealers, with more efficient engines and additional equipment included.
Set your eyes on the TSI or TDI models because these combine plenty of punch with decent fuel economy. The other engines are okay but the 1.2-litre isn’t especially perky; the 1.4 is noticeably better.
There’s a lot more demand for five-door cars, which are much easier to get in and out of, but the three-door looks more stylish and in theory is slightly cheaper. Entry-level Polo S models are spartan; they get a DAB radio and central locking, but unless you buy the S A/C edition, there’s no air-conditioning. BlueMotion trim adds alloy wheels, as well as air-con, cruise control and electrically adjustable door mirrors.
The SE comes with powered rear windows and climate control, while the SEL has an upgraded interior and multimedia system.
What to look for:
Airbag
Not all models have a front passenger airbag that can be switched off, so if you carry small children in the front of the car, make sure you find a Polo with this feature.
Exhaust
Particulate filters in the exhaust can get clogged on diesels that aren’t driven often, so consider buying a petrol-powered model if you don’t cover that many miles a year.
Headlamps
Some owners have found the headlight lenses on their cars have been heat-damaged by the daytime running lights being on for long periods of time.
Brake discs
Check that the brake discs aren’t worn or warped by feeling for juddering under braking. Some owners have found that the discs wear quickly on their Polos.
Interior
The cabin materials have a high-quality feel and the dashboard is a model of clarity. The seats are comfortable and there’s lots of room for two adults or three kids in the back. Visibility is good and so, too, is boot space; 280 litres can be stowed with the rear seats up, or 952 litres with them folded.
