The 2012 Volkswagen Polo is a supremely sensible small hatchback. That’s both its biggest strength and its biggest weakness. It feels very solidly put together, and its styling is restrained and classy. It also pulls off a familiar VW hatchback trick in as much as it feels like a much bigger car than it is. The downside of that sensible nature, is that it is neither as funky-looking as a MINI, nor as fun to drive as a Ford Fiesta (or even a Seat Ibiza, which is essentially the same car under the skin).

Strengths:

Feels like a bigger, more expensive car than it is
Fuel-efficient BlueMotion diesels
Refined and comfortable to drive

Weaknesses:

Unexciting to drive – sporty GTI is a particular disappointment
Not that well equipped
Understated styling could be seen as boring

Is the 2012 Volkswagen Polo better than the 2012 Ford Fiesta?

As a compact hatchback that feels reassuringly solid, stable and grown-up – like a VW Golf in miniature – the 2012 Volkswagen Polo is very impressive. Compared with the 2012 Ford Fiesta, however, it lacks dynamic sparkle – and the Ford is one of the most fun small cars to drive there is.