Along with the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa, the Volkswagen Polo has always proved hugely popular in the supermini class, helping to bring a taste of something more upmarket, but not at a higher price.
That’s especially true of the latest Polo, which gets more technology than ever, and is even more refined and comfortable to drive than before, while also growing in size to make it one of the most spacious small cars on sale.
But if you’re considering a new Volkswagen Polo, what do you need to know? Here’s our buyer’s guide to this popular supermini.
What powertrains are available?
Volkswagen has slimmed down the range of its Polo in recent years, and today all new models will come equipped with a 1.0-litre petrol engine.
A naturally-aspirated option kicks off the range, developing 79bhp, and though it’s not especially quick, will prove efficient, returning a claimed 51.4mpg with CO2 emissions of 125g/km.
If your budget will stretch, though, it’s worth buying a Polo with the 1.0-litre turbocharged TSI petrol engine, which is available with outputs of either 94bhp or 108bhp. Each comes with a manual gearbox as standard (it’s a five-speed on the 94bhp model and six on the 108bhp), though a seven-speed DSG automatic is available as an option, too.
What trim levels are offered?
Five generously equipped trim levels are available on the latest Polo, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows.
Match – from £17,400
The Match kicks off the Polo range, and despite being the ‘entry-level’ model, it feels far from it. Equipment includes an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with air conditioning, electric and heated mirrors, front fog lights and 15-inch alloy wheels. You also get cruise control, front and rear parking sensors and autonomous emergency braking on the safety front.
United – from £17,355
The special-edition United actually gets more equipment than the standard Match, but is ever so slightly cheaper. It brings satellite navigation, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rear view mirror and automatic lights, and is signalled out by its revised 15-inch alloy wheels, blue dashboard trim and ‘United’ branding.
Beats – from £18,155
Arguably the most youthful of the Polo grades, the Beats builds on the Match with its 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, leather door panels and sports seats. As its name suggests, you also have a Beats sound system included.
SEL – from £19,000
In addition to Match, the SEL features 16-inch alloy wheels, additional chrome detailing, LED interior lighting and dual-zone climate control. Satellite navigation is also included, along with ambient lighting.
R-Line – from £19,830
At the top of the range, the R-Line brings sportier styling thanks to its cool styling kit, tinted LED rear lights and revised 16-inch alloy wheels. Electric folding mirrors, spots seats and a sports steering wheel is also included.
What about personalisation?
There’s certainly plenty of choice to make your Polo stand out, beginning with the great choice of trim levels, which each bring a slightly different look. There’s a good range of colour options, too, including brighter shades like Energetic Orange and Flash Red, while nine alloy wheel designs are available too, depending on trim level.
There are plenty more conventional optional extras available as well, including LED headlights, wireless smartphone charging, keyless entry and a panoramic glass sunroof.
Enquire on a new Volkswagen Polo