Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (02-09) - Review

Review by David Ross on 17 January 2007

Last Updated: 21 July 2008

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.

4 out of 5

Other Volkswagen reviews

4 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£6,995 - £15,575

Used price range:

£1,417 - £10,021

View all used prices

Get a Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (02-09) information pack

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

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

For the review of the latest Volkswagen Polo Hatchback click here

Driving & Performance

Performance

3.5 out of 5
"There's a good choice of engines in the Polo and all are economical. The range kicks off with a..."
Handling

3 out of 5
"The Polo is a good all-rounder with a precise gear change, safe road manners and light steering. The..."

Comfort

Comfort

3.5 out of 5
"Rear passengers get a better deal in five-door models than in the three-door - it's easier to get in..."
Practicality

3.5 out of 5
"Polo buyers benefit from the fact that the model has grown over the years. It's a roomy car with a..."
Equipment

3 out of 5
"Entry-level E models have ABS with electronic brake force distribution, driver and front passenger..."
Behind the wheel

3.5 out of 5
"The Polo's interior is simple and clearly laid out but lacks panache. However build quality is..."

Costs

Running costs

4 out of 5
"Bluemotion models offer in excess of 74mpg in mixed driving, according to official figures but the..."
Green credentials

4 out of 5
"The Polo Bluemotion models have CO2 emissions of 99g/km, which mean they are low enough to avoid..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

4 out of 5
"Although it's not the market leader, the Polo still gets a four star Euro NCAP crash test rating and..."
Reliability

4 out of 5
"We haven’t heard many complaints of major issues and most owners report excellent reliability -..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3 out of 5
"This is a closely fought market so deals can sometimes be had - if you don't ask you won't get."
Buying used

3.5 out of 5
"Comparatively strong residuals mean that you'll need to pay more for your car than for some..."
Selling

4.5 out of 5
"The Polo is a very popular model on the used market and buyers will snatch your hand off for a well..."