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Weekend roadtest: Volkswagen Polo SE 1.2 70ps
publication date: Aug 21, 2010
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author/source: Robin Roberts
The VW Polo SE 1.2 is testament to the fact you
do not have to rough it with a modern city car, but on the contrary you
can enjoy a refined, rewarding and really satisfying sophisticated small
car.
Now in its fifth generation since 1976, the newest
Polo is probably closer to its origins than many realise, embodying
light weight design, fitted with state of the art powertrain and a good
equipment level, it can give many bigger cars a run for their money. | 
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Over
more than 34 years the Polo has gradually grown in size and today’s
version is close to the original Golf, while the latest version of that
super-mini has also expanded.
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| The current Polo line-up runs to more
than 30 models in three and five doors, but you pay approximately £600
more for the extra doors, and the range runs from £9,790 to £15,740.
This version of the test car has been introduced after the original
launch models last year and will be welcome addition in a range which
runs to 24 versions.
|  | Secondary switches are close to hand, with gauges directly infront of the driver and backed up by a multitude of warning lights.
The controls for standard air conditioning are straightforward and the system works well.
Electronic
stability control is fitted as standard and this gives it an edge over
some competitors which charge extra for what is generally considered an
essential on today’s cars. There are plenty of airbags to cushion you
around the cabin if the worst happens. |
The sweet three-cylinder 1.2 engine has a very
willing nature and it’s not generally fussy or noisy unless it’s pushed
around the rev. band. The power comes immediately and you find the need
to change gear is just as quick as speed builds.
The light clutch and
direct gearchange make light work of the task and there is adequate
punch to keep up with traffic and to overtake in most situations.
Matching
this is a surprisingly good braking system where modest pedal effort
brings about strong deceleration and there is a good feel through the
foot.The steering is also very progressive and it is ideally suited
to urban situations where you have little room to turn or park but it is
not too twitchy on more open roads.
|  | There is plenty of room to put
the usual journey items you pack or pick up along the way and the boot
starts off with a capacity of 280 litres but rises with seats’ folded to
952 litres, although that is a smaller maximum space than in the former
series.
Where the new model gains over the predecessor is the
greater amount of passenger space, so you have a better journey even if
you take less. Access is good, the seats in front adjust well and are
comfortable, but it’s best when used by four and it’s a squeeze in the
back if it rises to five. Five doors are much more practical than three. |
Many
will like the visibility through the windows thanks to the low
waistline, good efficient wipers and bright headlights. Rear parking
sensors come as a joint option along with cruise control, which to me
seems a strange combination.
Handling is entirely safe and
predictable with good levels of grip thanks to the stability control,
little body roll and a well sorted chassis and only the road noise is
likely to be noticed as wind and mechanical noises are low.
|  | It has
good acceleration from rest and feels faster than it is measured against
the clock.
It cruises very easily and quietly on the motorway and
economy is very good without having to make a conscious effort to drive
with a light foot.
If you want a small car to keep for a while, the VW Polo SE 1.2 70ps would be a good choice, both in the short and long term. |
| Fact file VW Polo SE 1.2 70ps 5dr | Price: £12,430 | | Insurance group: 3/ 5 | Mechanical: 3cyl 12v 1.0 engine, 5sp | | Max speed: 103mph | 0-62mph: 14.1sec | | Combined mpg: 51.4mpg | CO2 emissions: 128gkm | | BIK rating: 15pc | Warranty: 3yrs/ 60k |
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