Volkswagen Polo Hatchback (2002 - 2009) 1.2 E (55ps) 3d (02) (2004/54) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Sensible, practical

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They think it's decent for a small hatchback.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No, I bought this car as a cheap sensible stop gap

What are you likely to buy next?

Nissan 350z or BMW 330ci

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

September 2005

Did you get a good deal and why?

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Solid, cheap to insure car.

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

It's reasonable around town, very small and easy to park with good visibility. When there are a few people in the back visibility can be quite difficult. The 1.2 engine is pretty torquey in the mid range and people are surprised by it. The torque curve is like a diesel and it begins to tail off at about 3500rpm so it's not much good for long stretches of acceleration. The handling is very predictable for a small front wheel drive car but the steering provides absolutely NO feedback unless the front wheels are very close to loosing grip. Understeer is all you get in the wet, the tail is stuck down incredibly well. The grip is quite frightening in the wet if you don't have optional wheels and tyres, I'd class it as borderline dangerous unless your driving very very slowly.

What's it like to park?

Very easy

Have you had any problems with the car?

A few electrical teething problems when the car was about a year old. Since then weak front suspension has caused a few minor bills (suspension bushes, track rod ends etc.)

What's most practical about your car?

It's very small

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

It doesn't have many gadgets, heated wing mirrors are useful in the winter although I'd rather have electric windows!