The Polo Dune has a four-star Euro NCAP rating which is adequate rather than impressive. On the plus side, all models come with an electronic stability programme, driver, front passenger and side airbags, ABS and Isofix child seat mounting brackets. Security is taken care of with remote central locking and an immobiliser.

The boot is a decent size and deals easily with a family’s weekly shop. The glovebox is a bit small – it barely holds the car’s handbook (and isn’t air conditioned) while there’s netting on the sides of the seats that’s useful for carrying maps or bottles of water. There are three cupholders, including one that pops out from the dash and adjusts to match the size of bottles (although its sharp edges can rub on the front passenger’s knee) along with decent door pockets.