volkswagen polo
Saturday November 28 2009
WHAT: Volkswagen Polo 1.2-litre 5dr supermini (1,1 98cc, 70bhp, 0-100kmh in 14.1secs), 5spd manual gearbox, front-wheel drive, CO2 of 128g/km; VRT is 16pc. €156 annual road tax.
COST: From €14,590 (3dr petrol); 5drs from €14,990; diesels start at €16,670. Tested car (Comfortline with 16in alloys and front centre armrest as extras) €18,109. Delivery, related charges extra.
TARGET MARKET: Singles, couples, second-car families, downsizers.
PLUS: Lots of room, solid build, nice clean drive, classic/modern looks.
MINUS: Engine a bit noisy, badly-missed audio controls on steering wheel.
STANDARD EQUIPMENT: Head and thorax airbags, electric heated mirrors and electric windows, rear fog lamp.
OTHERS TO CONSIDER: Citroen C3, Fiat Punto, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai i20, Mazda2, Peugeot 207, Toyota Yaris, Mitsubishi Colt, Nissan Micra, Honda Jazz, Opel Corsa, Renault Clio, Skoda Fabia, Seat Ibiza.
STAR RATING: 7.9/10
Irish Independent
