Used Volkswagen Polo for sale near Brighton

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,700
Average Price: Around £10,800

Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (2009-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Feels like a bigger, more expensive car than it is	Unexciting to drive – sporty GTI is a particular disappointment
Fuel-efficient BlueMotion diesels	Not that well equipped
Refined and comfortable to drive	Understated styling could be seen as boring

Quick Summary

The Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (2009-2017) is a mature and refined supermini that punches above its weight. Named European Car of the Year in 2010, it delivers the feel of a scaled-down Golf with excellent build quality, comfort, and refinement. Available in three and five-door body styles, the Polo received a mid-life refresh in 2014 that introduced new technology and engines. Despite its modest exterior dimensions, it offers surprisingly spacious accommodation with a 280-litre boot expanding to 952 litres with the rear seats folded. The neatly styled interior features quality materials and good storage, making it feel more grown-up than contemporary rivals.

The Polo prioritises comfort and relaxation over driving engagement, making it ideal for motorway cruising and urban driving rather than spirited cornering. A wide range of engines is available, from the weedy 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol to the smooth 104bhp turbocharged 1.2-litre and efficient diesel options. The BlueMotion diesel variants are remarkably fuel-efficient, achieving up to 90mpg, whilst early petrol models manage close to 50mpg. The GTI hot hatches, featuring either a 178bhp 1.4-litre twincharger or later 189bhp 1.8-litre turbo, offer performance but lack the excitement of rivals like the Ford Fiesta ST. Post-facelift models benefit from improved infotainment systems with Bluetooth and USB connectivity, plus some of the first autonomous emergency braking systems in the supermini class.

Best for: Drivers seeking a refined, comfortable, and well-built supermini with premium feel, those prioritising fuel efficiency (BlueMotion diesels), and buyers wanting motorway comfort and urban practicality.

Not ideal for: Keen drivers wanting engaging handling, buyers seeking cutting-edge equipment on entry-level models, or those preferring distinctive styling over understated design.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Polo if: You want a refined, well-built supermini with premium feel, prioritise comfort and refinement over driving engagement, or seek excellent fuel efficiency with BlueMotion diesel variants.

Consider alternatives if: You value engaging handling like the Ford Fiesta, prefer distinctive styling, or require comprehensive equipment as standard on entry-level models.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Polo Mk5 is a strong contender in the supermini market, offering superior build quality, refinement, and the premium feel of a larger car. Whilst it lacks the driving engagement of the Ford Fiesta and the exceptional value of the Vauxhall Corsa, its maturity, comfort, and efficiency make it an excellent choice for those prioritising quality and relaxation. The BlueMotion diesel variants are particularly impressive for fuel economy, whilst the GTI models offer affordable performance, albeit without the excitement of the Fiesta ST. Overall, the Polo represents a sensible, grown-up approach to supermini ownership.

Read our full Volkswagen Polo Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.