Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (02-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 21 Jul 2008
4
It may not be the most exciting small hatchback on the market but the Volkswagen Polo is hugely popular. And with excellent build quality, bullet-proof reliability and that all important Volkswagen badge on the grille, it's not hard to see why.
Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (02-09)

Excellent build quality, safe to drive, low emission Bluemotion version available

Expensive compared to other small hatchbacks, low equipment levels, drab interior

New price range:

£6,995 - £15,575

Used price range:

£1,144 - £8,793

View all used prices

Summary

Parkers Rating:

4 out of 5

It may not be the most exciting small hatchback on the market but the Volkswagen Polo is hugely popular. And with excellent build quality, bullet-proof reliability and that all important Volkswagen badge on the grille, it's not hard to see why. Safe and comfortable to drive it's available with a wide choice of engines including some very economical diesels while the interior is durable and well finished. If you're looking to save money there's also an environmentally-friendly Bluemotion model available. Thanks to engine tweaks, aerodynamic changes and longer gearing this emits just 99g/km of CO2 - so it qualifies for free-road tax, plus it will average an incredible 74mpg. The model was facelifted in mid-2005 with a sharper look and angular headlights replacing the twin lights.

Parkers Ratings

Overall

4 out of 5

Performance

3.5 out of 5

Handling

3 out of 5

Comfort

3.5 out of 5

Practicality

3.5 out of 5

Behind the wheel

3.5 out of 5

Safety

4 out of 5

Reliability

4 out of 5

Running costs

4 out of 5

Green credentials

4 out of 5

Buying used

3.5 out of 5

Selling

4.5 out of 5

Equipment

3 out of 5

What owners say...

 Perfect size for me! First car so hard to compare but seems spacious enough for a small car. Seems ok on fuel but then I haven't driven many long distances yet.  

4 out of 5

Tamsin Heath ,   28 Mar 2013    ... read more

 The driver seat can be lowered to achieve the perfect driving position.  

5 out of 5

Jenni Pearson ,   22 Mar 2013    ... read more

 The towbar we fitted allows us to take up to four bikes. My nan can get in and out of the car without major difficulty, and her wheelchair can fit in the car. We once transported a gazebo in its box...  

4 out of 5

Liam Robinson ,   20 Mar 2013    ... read more

See all Owners' Reviews

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