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What’s it like?
The Volkswagen Polo is a true stalwart of the supermini class of car, having been around longer than any of its rivals – it first appeared way back in 1975. The sixth generation launched in 2017, and while the future for this historic automotive nameplate is not entirely clear, there’s no doubting the latest version is a high-class, ultra-refined runaround that feels a quality level above most of its key competitors, including the dearly departed Ford Fiesta – but also the talented likes of the Opel Corsa, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz and Hyundai i20, not to mention the cars related to the Polo, including the Audi A1, Skoda Fabia and SEAT Ibiza.
Which model to go for?
Engine choice is simple here – you’ll almost certainly end up with a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder petrol in the Polo. There was a 1.6-litre TDI-badged turbodiesel in the Polo family, but we never took that here. With the 1.0-litre, there were 65- and 75hp non-turbocharged versions, which were marketed as ‘MPI’ models, and then a 95hp turbocharged example sold as the ‘TSI’. Whichever one you go for, you’ll get either a five-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG automatic (the latter only offered on the TSI) gearbox, with drive going exclusively to the Polo’s front axle.
There are a handful of Polo GTIs on the used market today, these powered by a 2.0-litre 200hp petrol engine and equipped with a DSG as standard. Obviously, they’re nothing like as frugal to run or as comfortable to travel in, but if you want a bit of performance from your Volkswagen supermini, it’s the sporty GTI you’ll be needing. It’s also more expensive to buy, though, and for most the fuel economy and smooth ride of a good regular 1.0-litre Polo will be far more appealing – we’d advocate seeking out the TSI for the best all-round driving package, as its turbocharged torque makes it easier to drive both in heavy traffic and when out on the motorway.
Does anything go wrong?
A reasonably dependable car from a mechanical perspective, the more common issues with used Mk6 Volkswagen Polos revolve around the in-car electrics, so check they all work properly and that there are no warning lights on the dashboard.
Volkswagen issued six recalls for the sixth-generation Polo, which were for possibly faulty bonding of the spoiler to the rear tailgate; possibly faulty bonding of the panoramic sunroof frame; the potential for oil being sucked into the brake booster; the passenger-side front airbag not functioning at temperatures below -15 degrees C; and then two separate recalls for rear seatbelt buckle malfunctions.