Weekend roadtest : Volkswagen Polo SE 1.6 75ps

With prices and values shifting all over the place, consistency pays and models such as the Volkswagen Polo have proved they stand the test of time. It has been a staple of the VW range for over 30 years and its quality city car credentials have endured and been envied by other manufacturers. The newest generation Polo, the fifth to carry the name since launch in 1976, immediately strikes you as being larger than before and close to the early Golf in overall terms.
Increasing the size of Polo means it is not only roomier but it rides better and there is greater body stiffness so the refinement is greater as well. There are over 30 models in the new Polo series and the SE TDI available with three or five doors sits towards the top of the range which costs between £10,000 and £15,800. This is a comparatively new engine and like others from VW it is very good. It proved an immediate starter, pulled eagerly and quietly and had a good spread of power to deliver satisfying performance. With the five-speed gearbox operating through a light clutch the powertrain was in its element whether negotiating crowded streets or open roads. The 75ps engine is not overworked and never sounds strained or busy. It delivers performance smoothly and strongly and you never feel let down even when the car is loaded. It is low polluting and has the potential for exceptional economy. Responses to steering and brakes are similarly good and not only does it stop quickly but it does so without drama or a heavy foot.
Parking is very easy thanks to a good steering ratio and very modest weight to the system.Minor controls come to hand, the simple instruments are immediately infront of the driver and there are clearly displayed gauges and plenty of warning lights. Heating and ventilation is straightforward and the air conditioning works seamlessly and remarkably quietly but full climate control is available for £355. The A/C had good output, directional control and kept the desired temperature very well. Four powered windows offered added ventilation but there is no sunroof available.
Oddments provision is good throughout the cabin and the boot capacity rises from 280 to 952 litres by quickly folding the seats.Access for driver and passengers is also very good. The doors open wide and the openings are big and once seated the amount of room is good for a city car, but optimised at four while five is an uncomfortable number. The seats’ adjustment in front is good and the shape of the seats holds occupants securely. It is not so positive in the back. Room is good whether in the back or front and only a slight head impingement affects those sitting on the back seats.
	Visibility is clear all round, the wipers do a good job and the lights illuminate the road over a wide area.This means you can make the most of the performance underfoot and it can hold its own in urban or country traffic. Economy is good even when it’s driven with enthusiasm. However and where-ever you drive the new Polo, there is a noticeably lack of intrusive wind noise but there is some road rumbling to be heard. The general refinement of the chassis, powertrain and way doors open and close instils a feeling of wellbeing and you can appreciate not only short but also long journeys which would be a trial in some city cars. The new VW Polo is punching above its lightweight.

FAST FACTS VW Polo SE TDi 1.6 75ps 5dr
Price: £13,840	Max speed: 106mph	CO2 emissions: 112gkm
Insurance group: 3/ 10	0-62mph: 13.9sec	BIK rating: 13pc
Mechanical: 75ps 1598cc 4cyl, 5sp	Combined mpg: 65.7mpg	Warranty: 3yrs/ 60k