CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,900
Average Price: Around £11,300

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, well-built supermini that feels like a scaled-down Golf. Named European Car of the Year in 2010, it offers surprising interior space, quality materials, and a grown-up driving experience. With a 280-litre boot expanding to 952 litres with rear seats folded, it provides practicality despite its modest exterior dimensions. The Polo excels in refinement and comfort, making it ideal for motorway driving and urban environments, though it prioritises composure over driving engagement.

A wide range of engines is available, from modest naturally aspirated petrols to efficient BlueMotion diesels achieving up to 90mpg. The turbocharged TSI petrol units offer a good balance of performance and efficiency, whilst the GTI hot hatch variants provide more power but less excitement than rivals. The 2014 facelift brought improved technology, including touchscreen infotainment and optional autonomous emergency braking. Running costs are reasonable, with low insurance groups and competitive servicing costs at independent specialists.

Best for: Drivers seeking a refined, comfortable, and well-built supermini with premium feel, those prioritising fuel efficiency (especially BlueMotion diesels), and buyers wanting a practical family car with motorway capability.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting engaging handling (Ford Fiesta is superior), those seeking cutting-edge technology or extensive equipment, or buyers wanting a distinctive, eye-catching design.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Polo if: You want a refined, well-built supermini with premium feel, prioritise fuel efficiency and comfort, or seek a practical family car with excellent motorway capability.

Consider alternatives if: You value engaging handling (Ford Fiesta excels here), require extensive equipment and technology, or prefer a distinctive, eye-catching design.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Polo Mk5 is a strong contender in the used supermini market, offering superior build quality, refinement, and a premium feel that rivals struggle to match. Whilst it lacks the driving engagement of the Ford Fiesta and the budget-friendly appeal of the Vauxhall Corsa, its combination of comfort, efficiency, and durability makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a mature, dependable family hatchback. The BlueMotion diesel variants are particularly impressive for fuel economy, whilst the GTI models offer performance-oriented buyers an alternative to more conventional rivals.

Read our full Volkswagen Polo Review

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