Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (2009 - 2017) 1.2 TDI SE 5d (2011/11) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

sucker for VW and their clunky doors and fancy adverts. It does look nice even though its my mums car

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They love it

Would you buy this car again and why?

Not another diesel. Would certainly give the 1.4 petrol a test drive and some consideration though.

What are you likely to buy next?

Probably a ford fiesta TDCI. Nicer to drive, better fuel economy and better spec.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

March 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, got around £2000 off the list price, and £2000 part ex for our old car

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Econonomy, quality

What was the dealer like?

Friendly and helpful

What's it like to drive?

Feels solid and safe, nice gearbox, but so Painfully slow. Honestly this is the most underpowered car I have ever driven, and I have driven lots of cars including plenty of small diesels, learnt to drive in a 206 1.4 HDI, have driven a 1.3 CDTI corsa, a fiesta Diesel, all of similar engine size and power, but none are this sluggish. Even slower then a 1.0 Toyota Yaris my parents used to own. Pulling onto motorways and dual carriageways can be very scary, and overtaking is a definate no unless there is lots of road free! However it cruises nicely on the motorway once it has gathered momentum. Another gripe is the low gear ratios, if you change from 3rd to 4th at 30-35 mph, the car labours so badly it feels as if it may stall. Any sort of motorway incline requires changing down a gear. Also,

What's it like to park?

very easy, light steering and small turning circle

Have you had any problems with the car?

No, too new to tell

What's most practical about your car?

Nice spacious interior and decent boot size

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?