Volkswagen Polo Hatchback 1.4 CL 5d (1999/V) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Expensive, but then it is a VW. Holds its value well (probably not now that I've modified it!)
Costs
Expensive to buy (£9k with 10k miles on the clock). Fuel economy is pretty good, but VW dealer servicing certainly ain't cheap.
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On the road
Driving
When everything works it's smooth, quiet, and feels like a real masterpiece of German engineering.
Performance
It feels quite pokey compared to most 1.4 litre 8V cars I've driven. The bodyroll problem has been solved because I've had the suspension lowered. Now with 7"x15" alloys added, it handles like a go-kart.
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Living with it
Reliability
Engine starts EVERY time, even on the coldest of mornings. However I have had problems with rear box of the exhaust, and of course the sticking clutch.
Image
My Polo, even without the modifications, attracts compliments. With the modifications, it turns heads and demands some serious respect and certainly defies the 'girly' car image.
Comfort
Seats are quite comfy. Back tends to ache after long journeys. Upholstery material is a bit naff.
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Security and Service
Security
Didn't come with an alarm. Then I got my stereo nicked and have since fitted a TOAD Cat1 alarm system. Now I have no problems.
Service
Full VW service history has cost me a packet! However they're generally polite, helpful and efficient.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
The standard Sony stereo may well have been a freebie from a cereal packet. So that was the first thing I changed.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes