Used Volkswagen Polo for sale nearWatford

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.5 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.2%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.3 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 2,500
Average Price: Around £10,600

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 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. Available in three and five-door body styles, the Polo received a mid-life refresh in 2014 that introduced new technology and engines. With a 280-litre boot expanding to 952 litres with rear seats folded, it provides practical storage for a car of its size. The refined, compliant ride and excellent motorway manners make it an ideal choice for those prioritising comfort over driving engagement.

Engine options range from modest naturally aspirated petrols to efficient BlueMotion diesels achieving up to 90mpg, plus sporty GTI variants with turbocharged power. Early petrol models manage around 50mpg in real-world driving, whilst later TSI-badged versions improve significantly. Running costs are reasonable, with post-facelift diesels incurring no road tax and most models sitting in insurance groups 15 or below. The Polo's premium VW badge, build quality, and refinement make it feel considerably more upmarket than rivals, though it lacks the driving engagement of a Ford Fiesta or the style of a MINI.

Best for: Buyers seeking a refined, comfortable, and well-built supermini with premium feel, those prioritising motorway comfort and fuel efficiency, and drivers wanting a mature alternative to sportier rivals.

Not ideal for: Keen drivers wanting engaging handling, buyers on tight budgets seeking maximum value, or those expecting comprehensive equipment levels as standard.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Polo if: You're seeking a refined, comfortable, and well-built supermini with premium feel, prioritising motorway comfort and fuel efficiency, or wanting a mature alternative to sportier rivals.

Consider alternatives if: You are a keen driver wanting engaging handling, on a tight budget seeking maximum value, or require comprehensive equipment levels as standard.

Competitive Position: The Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (2009-2017) is a strong contender in the used supermini market, offering premium build quality, refinement, and a grown-up driving experience. Whilst it lacks the driving engagement of the Ford Fiesta or the value proposition of the Vauxhall Corsa, its superior interior quality, comfort, and motorway manners justify the slightly higher price. The efficient BlueMotion diesels and reasonable running costs make it an excellent choice for those valuing refinement and reliability over outright excitement or budget-conscious practicality.

Read our full Volkswagen Polo Review

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