If you’re in the market for a small hatchback that’s compact and nippy enough for city life but can also hold its own out on the motorway, then you’re in luck. Two of the best are also very popular so there are plenty to pick from on the used market. But which is better – Fiesta or Polo?
Ford Fiesta (2008 on) vs Volkswagen Polo (2009 on)
Driving
Ford’s long-standing reputation for producing cars with balanced handling continues with the current Fiesta. It’s agile and fun to drive but performance is dependent upon the engine chosen. EcoBoost petrols have plenty of go but many find the TDCi diesels blend suffcient performance with fine fuel economy.
Although the Volkswagen lacks the Ford’s handling finesse it’s nevertheless an easy car in which to cover a lot of miles, majoring on comfort instead of fun. Non- turbocharged petrol engines are a little lethargic but most Polos with a TSI or TDI badge on the tail offer a good turn of pace without sacrificing fuel effciency.
Practicality
Both cars provide similar amounts of space for passengers and their luggage, meaning a small family can squeeze a typical weekly shop into the boot without folding the seats. Although the Fiesta’s interior’s stylish and well-made, its plastics feel less expensive than the Polo’s meaning they could be more resilient to knocks, scuffs and bangs.
Polos tend to be more expensive than their equivalent Fiestas which is partly reflected in the quality of the soft-touch plastics used in the interior. The Volkswagen Polo’s slightly more upright body shape provides slightly more rear headroom and a perpendicular tailgate for carrying taller loads in the boot. Ideal for Ikea trips then.
Costs
Small cars invariably mean small running costs. Choose wisely and the Fiesta is no exception. EcoBoost petrol engines might promise strong fuel efficiency but in reality the Econetic diesel is the one to plump for to keep more money in your account. The lowest Band A VED car tax means there’s nothing to pay.
It’s more expensive to buy but the Polo is almost as cheap to run as the Fiesta with a range of effcient petrol and diesel motors. Stars of the range are the BlueMotion diesels with aerodynamic body parts to boost economy and lower emissions. Again, free annual car tax is one of the perks of BlueMotion ownership.
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Ford Fiesta |
VW Polo |
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Engines:
Power:
0-62mph:
Economy:
Fuel Capacity:
CO2 Emissions:
Road tax:
Insurance groups:
Boot space: |
Petrol and Diesel, 1.0 to 1.6 litres 59-132 bhp 8.4-16.4 seconds 43-85mpg 80 litres 87-154 g/km £0-£175 3-17 276-960 litres |
Petrol and Diesel, 1.2 to 1.6 litres 59-138 bhp 8.6-15.6 seconds 47-80 mpg 70 litres 91-139 g/km £0-£125 3-23 280-952 litres |
Verdict
Ford Fiesta – Winner
On paper there’s little to choose between the Fiesta and Polo. Both offer similar amounts of space, cost about the same to run, they’re well-built and have a wide choice of engines and trims to suit customers’ needs.
The Polo definitely feels like a more expensive product with its plusher interior, and it is in terms of purchasing one, but the Fiesta counters that by being a more enjoyable car to drive without sacrificing much in terms of ride comfort. The Polo is very good, but the Fiesta is the better bet.
