Volkswagen Polo (2018-Present) Review: The Perfect Small Car for UK Roads

Volkswagen Polo (2018-Present) Review: The Perfect Small Car for UK Roads

The Volkswagen Polo has long been a symbol of quality, refinement, and practicality in the supermini segment. The sixth-generation Polo, launched in 2018 and still going strong, elevates the benchmark for small cars with its upmarket features, advanced technology, and all-around appeal. This review examines what makes the 2018-present Volkswagen Polo one of the most compelling choices for UK drivers.

Exterior Design: Subtle Sophistication

The Volkswagen Polo’s design philosophy is all about understated elegance. With clean lines, a slightly wider stance, and a purposeful front grille, the Polo exudes a mature and timeless appeal that stands out in the supermini market.

A 2021 facelift brought sharper LED headlights as standard, a redesigned front bumper, and dynamic indicators on higher trims, ensuring the Polo remains fresh and contemporary. For those seeking more flair, the R-Line trim adds sporty touches like a unique body kit, rear diffuser, and larger alloy wheels.

Interior: Class-Leading Comfort and Quality

Step inside the Polo, and you’ll quickly forget you’re in a small car. Volkswagen has applied its usual high standards to the interior, with soft-touch materials, solid build quality, and an ergonomic layout.

Technology and Infotainment

The Polo’s cabin is dominated by a slick infotainment system. Even entry-level models feature an 8-inch touchscreen with DAB radio, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims upgrade to a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, offering a customisable and modern digital display.

Space and Practicality

The Polo boasts one of the largest cabins in its class. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, making it a viable option for small families. The 351-litre boot is larger than most rivals, and its wide opening makes loading effortless—ideal for weekly shopping or weekend getaways.

Driving Dynamics: Composed and Enjoyable

The Polo excels at striking a balance between comfort and driver engagement. Whether navigating narrow UK streets or cruising on motorways, it feels composed, nimble, and confidence-inspiring.

Engines and Performance

The Polo’s range of engines caters to all needs:

• 1.0 MPI (80 PS): Perfect for city driving, offering efficiency and ease of use.
• 1.0 TSI (95-110 PS): A turbocharged option for those seeking a little more punch, with a great blend of performance and fuel economy.
• GTI (207 PS): The flagship hot hatch, featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. It sprints from 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds, delivering thrilling performance for enthusiasts.

The slick five- or six-speed manual transmissions are a joy to use, while the optional 7-speed DSG automatic provides seamless shifts, making it a great choice for urban commuters.

Features and Safety: Cutting-Edge Technology

Volkswagen has equipped the Polo with a wealth of features and advanced safety tech, many of which were once reserved for larger cars:

• IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist for semi-autonomous driving on motorways.
• Park Assist: Automatically steers the car into parking spaces, taking the stress out of tight spots.
• Front Assist: Includes automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection as standard, helping to prevent accidents.

The Polo’s impressive safety credentials are backed by its 5-star Euro NCAP rating, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Running Costs: Affordable Yet Premium

The Polo is not just refined—it’s also economical to run. The 1.0 TSI models deliver up to 60 mpg, while insurance costs are competitive across the range. For eco-conscious buyers, the Polo’s efficient engines and low CO2 emissions make it a smart choice for both urban and rural driving.

Trim Levels: Something for Everyone

The Polo comes in a variety of trims to suit different preferences:

1. Life: The entry-level trim with essential features like LED headlights, touchscreen infotainment, and air conditioning.
2. Style: Adds luxuries such as the Digital Cockpit Pro, upgraded upholstery, and additional driver aids.
3. R-Line: Offers sporty aesthetics with unique bumpers, 16-inch alloys, and a flat-bottom steering wheel.
4. GTI: The performance model with aggressive styling, sports seats, and all the thrills of a hot hatch.

Downsides: Few and Far Between

While the Volkswagen Polo has few flaws, there are a couple of areas where it could improve:

• Price: The Polo is one of the pricier options in the supermini segment, especially in higher trims.
• Limited GTI Availability: The GTI is in high demand, making it harder to find on the used market.

Final Verdict: The Ultimate Supermini?

The Volkswagen Polo (2018-present) is a class act. Its blend of premium features, spacious interior, and refined driving experience makes it a standout choice for UK drivers. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a small family, or someone who simply wants a dependable and stylish small car, the Polo ticks all the boxes.

Rating: ★★★★★

Pros: Premium feel, advanced tech, spacious cabin, engaging to drive

Cons: Higher price point, limited GTI availability

If you’re in the market for a supermini that feels a cut above the rest, the Polo is hard to beat. It’s a small car with a big personality—perfect for Britain’s diverse roads.

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