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Volkswagen Polo 2024 review

Hatchback Petrol

Volkswagen Polo 2024 — front three-quarter view

Photo: Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

The Polo has spent decades being the sensible answer to the small-car question, and the latest version is no different. Built on the same underpinnings as much bigger VW Group cars, it feels solid and grown-up on the road in a way that some supermini rivals simply do not. The 1.0-litre TSI petrol in its 95hp form is the sweet spot: perky enough around town, relaxed on the motorway, and happy to return around 53mpg with a light right foot. The five-speed manual gearbox is slick and easy to learn on, which is one reason driving schools love the Polo. Inside, the cabin is logically laid out and feels a cut above cheaper superminis, with a 351-litre boot that handles a weekly shop without complaint. It is not exciting, and nobody will pretend it is, but insurance group 10 keeps premiums friendly and residuals stay strong. For a first car, a commuter, or a no-drama family runabout, the Polo remains one of the safest used and new buys in the class.

UK price from: £20,000

Specifications

Engine	1.0 TSI petrol
Power	95hp
0-60 mph	10.8s
Transmission	5-speed manual
Fuel type	Petrol
Fuel economy	53mpg
CO2 emissions	119g/km
Seats	5
Boot space	351L
Insurance group	10

Features

Key features: 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol with 5-speed manual gearbox; Digital Cockpit and 8-inch infotainment touchscreen; Front Assist emergency braking and lane assist as standard; 351-litre boot with 60:40 split rear seats

Common parts & prices

Part	Price (GBP)	Notes
Front brake pads	£39.99	Fits 1.0 TSI; change axle set every 40k miles
Oil filter	£11.49	Use at every annual or 10k-mile service
Air filter	£16.99	Replace every 30k miles for best economy
Rear brake discs pair	£64.99	Inspect for scoring at each service
Spark plugs set of 3	£21.99	Change every 40k miles on the 1.0 TSI
Wiper blades pair	£22.99	Replace yearly before autumn rain arrives

Prices are typical UK aftermarket/OEM guide prices and may vary by supplier.

Pros

Insurance group 10 keeps it cheap to insure. Around 53mpg makes it genuinely cheap to run. Solid build quality and strong resale values.

Cons

95hp is modest on fast A-roads and motorway slip roads. Rear legroom is tight for tall adults. Higher trims get expensive against newer rivals.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Volkswagen Polo a good first car?

It is one of the best. Insurance group 10 keeps premiums low, the controls are light and forgiving, and it feels solid and safe. Strong resale values also mean you get a good chunk of your money back.

What mpg does the Polo 1.0 TSI get?

Around 53mpg in mixed driving is realistic, with more possible on steady motorway runs. The small turbo engine is at its most efficient when driven smoothly rather than revved hard.

Is the Polo reliable?

The Polo has a dependable record, sharing proven engines and gearboxes with millions of other VW Group cars. Regular servicing and timely cambelt attention keep it trouble-free for years.

Should I buy a Polo or a Fiesta?

The Polo feels more grown-up and holds its value better, while the Fiesta is more fun to drive. With the Fiesta discontinued, the Polo is now the default safe pick in the class.