The regular Polo has often been regarded as a more attainable, compact version of the Golf. This parallel is a testament to the level of engineering, quality and overall refinement boasted by the model. It is regarded as the segment benchmark, the standard-bearer to which its peers aspire.
Two engine choices are on offer. First, a 1.0-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged-petrol in the standard and Life models. Next up is the four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, turbocharged-petrol exclusively for the GTI. The former unit comes in two states of tune. The a 70kW/175Nm setup is paired with a five-speed manual. The more powerful 85kW/200Nm configuration employs a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the GTI has the same transmission, but without a seventh gear.
A light but accurate steering system is among them, as is an insulated passenger cell that suppresses noise, vibration and harshness as well as some premium cars. If you really pay attention, you might notice the characteristic, three-cylinder thrum from the engine. That is more of an endearing attribute than an annoying one. Performance from the motor seems fizzier than the 10.8-second 0-100km/h sprint time implies.
Basic safety kit from the basic model up comprises of electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, dual front, side and curtain airbags and ISOFIX anchor points. When it was tested by Euro NCAP in 2017, the Polo achieved a five-star rating.