The Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo have battled for supremacy in the supermini class for decades. Both offer a well-rounded blend of practicality, driving dynamics and efficiency that have made them firm favourites with British car buyers. However, there are some key differences that could sway you one way or the other.
The Fiesta was discontinued by Ford in 2023, so is only available as a used car today. It has long been praised for its engaging driving experience and fun-to-drive nature, even in more modest specifications. The Polo counters with a more upmarket interior and smoother ride comfort. While the Fiesta is the more affordable option, the Polo's premium positioning means it holds its value better on the used market.
Ford Fiesta vs Volkswagen Polo
Practicality
The Volkswagen Polo just about has the edge over the Ford Fiesta for outright practicality, boasting a larger boot capacity of 350 litres compared to the Fiesta's 292 litres. The Polo also provides slightly more rear passenger space, making it the better choice for families.
That said, the differences aren't massive. Both cars can accommodate four adults in reasonable comfort, with a fifth passenger being a squeeze. The Fiesta's boot is a good size too, even if it can't quite match the Polo's outright capacity. Importantly, both make excellent use of the interior space afforded by their compact exterior dimensions.
Those prioritising interior space should lean towards the Polo, but the Fiesta remains a very usable choice for its class.
Driving Impressions
If driving engagement is a priority, the Ford Fiesta is the clear pick between these two superminis. It has long been lauded for its agile handling and keen responses that make it genuinely fun to drive on a favourite road.
The Fiesta's well-weighted controls and slick gearshift further enhance the experience. Even the basic models are a delight from behind the wheel, while the warmed-up ST-Line versions ramp up the excitement further with sportier suspension tuning.
In contrast, the Volkswagen Polo places more emphasis on comfort and refinement than outright driving thrills. It soaks up bumps very effectively and keeps wind and road noise nicely suppressed at motorway speeds. However, while secure and predictable through corners, the Polo can't quite match the Fiesta's agility and steering feel.
The Polo GTI hot hatch derivative is a particular disappointment in this regard. Despite the racy looks and uprated engine, it fails to delivery a suitably engaging driving experience.
So for keen drivers, the Fiesta is the obvious choice. But those who prioritise relaxed cruising may prefer the Polo's more cosseting ride and greater refinement.
Technology and Equipment
Both the Fiesta and Polo offer a good standard of in-car technology and equipment, though the Polo maintains a slight edge befitting its premium positioning.
Even entry-level Polo Life models come reasonably well equipped with air conditioning, LED headlights and some advanced driver aids. Meanwhile, the Polo Style adds niceties like dual-zone climate control, satellite navigation and front/rear parking sensors.
The Fiesta counters with standard equipment including a heated windscreen and smartphone mirroring across the range. However, you need to step up to the higher trim levels like the Vignale to get an upgraded sound system.
Both cars offer the option of fully digital instrument displays on higher specifications, keeping you up-to-date with key vehicle information. When it comes to infotainment systems, each provides an intuitive interface with sharp graphics.
While closely matched overall, the Volkswagen Polo's slightly more generous kit levels reflect its premium brand image and higher pricing over the Fiesta. But whichever you choose, you can expect a decent haul of modern features.
Running Costs
As you might expect given its mainstream positioning, the Ford Fiesta works out as the more affordable option to run compared to the more upmarket Volkswagen Polo.
It also tends to depreciate faster than the Polo, which has stronger residual values.
When it comes to day-to-day running costs, the most efficient Fiesta petrol models can achieve up to 53.3mpg, while even the punchy Ecoboost turbo engines top 50mpg. The Fiesta's mild hybrid variants push economy into the 56mpg range.
The Polo counters with a 1.6 TDI diesel that peaks at 57mpg, though its higher purchase prices offset some of those fuel savings. The petrol engines return 46-51mpg depending on the specific model.
Insurance costs also favour the Fiesta, with the entry-level versions sitting in the cheapest group 1 for premiums. The Polo's lowest insurance group is 8.
Overall, the financial sums make more sense for the Fiesta if minimising running costs is a priority. But the Polo's premium badge means it holds its value better, making up some ground as a long-term ownership proposition.
Verdict
Both of these cars have plenty of strengths that will appeal to different buyers. The Fiesta is a used-only buy these days so if you are after a brand new car, the Polo is the only choice here. However, on the second-hand market, they are closely matched.
The Fiesta makes a stronger case for driving enthusiasts who value an engaging experience behind the wheel. Its keen handling and punchy engine options deliver more outright thrills than the more comfort-oriented Polo.
The Polo counters with a more upmarket interior ambiance and higher-quality cabin materials. It's also more practical thanks to its bigger boot and roomier rear quarters.
From a financial perspective, the mainstream Fiesta is the more affordable option for both purchase prices and day-to-day running costs. But the Polo's premium badge means stronger residual values for used buyers.
Ultimately, your decision may come down to whether you prioritise driving dynamics or interior refinement. The Fiesta is the sharper driver's car, while the Polo leans into Volkswagen's traditional strengths of solid build and an understated premium feel.
Both are excellent all-round superminis and you can't go too far wrong with either choice. Take the time to test drive both back-to-back if possible to see which better gels with your personal tastes and requirements.