Used Volkswagen Polo for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,500
Average Price: Around £11,700

Volkswagen Polo (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 refined and grown-up supermini, often feeling like a scaled-down Golf due to its build quality, comfort, and motorway refinement. Available in three and five-door body styles, it received a facelift in 2014, updating technology and engines while largely retaining its understated styling. Despite modest exterior dimensions, it offers surprising roominess, especially in the front, with good storage and comfortable driving positions. The boot has a 280-litre capacity, expandable to 952 litres with folded rear seats, and features a variable height floor.

While not as engaging to drive as rivals like the Ford Fiesta, the Polo prioritises a mature, composed, and relaxing experience, excelling in urban environments and on motorways. It offers a wide range of engines, including efficient turbocharged petrol (TSI) and diesel (TDI, BlueMotion) options, with later models being significantly more efficient. Running costs are generally low, with many models offering excellent fuel economy and reasonable road tax, though GTIs are less efficient and more expensive to tax. Used examples represent strong value for those seeking a dependable and practical small car.

Best for: Drivers seeking a refined, comfortable, and practical supermini with a grown-up feel, those prioritising fuel efficiency, or buyers wanting a dependable small family car.

Not ideal for: Enthusiastic drivers who prioritise engaging handling (like a Ford Fiesta), buyers seeking extensive standard equipment on entry-level models, or those who prefer more exciting styling.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Polo if: You're seeking a refined, comfortable, and practical supermini with a grown-up feel, prioritise fuel efficiency, or want a dependable small family car.

Consider alternatives if: You're an enthusiastic driver who prioritises engaging handling, desire extensive standard equipment on entry-level models, or prefer more exciting styling.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (2009-2017) stands out for its mature feel, build quality, and refinement, positioning it as a premium option in the supermini segment. While it may not offer the driving thrills of a Ford Fiesta or the distinctive style of some rivals, its comfort, practicality, and excellent fuel economy (especially in BlueMotion guise) make it a highly desirable and dependable choice for those seeking a sophisticated small car. The GTI models, however, fall short of being class leaders in the hot hatch category.

Read our full Volkswagen Polo Review

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