Supermini champs

Few cars will leave a smaller hole in your motoring budget than the new VW Polo. It only hit UK roads a couple of months ago, but is already recognised as one of the safest financial bets for your money.

With a rock-solid reputation, enviable image and low running costs, the newcomer ensures its place at the top of the pile. The 1.6-litre SE-spec Polo starts at £13,205. Thanks to its grown-up shape and solid cabin, buyers will feel like they’ve got a bargain – but the best news will come in three years’ time.

Providing it’s covered little more than 30,000 miles, the VW should be valued at just over £7,000, having set the driver back £2,020 per year – or 20 pence per mile – in depreciation. These figures apply to the 74bhp version of the Polo, but an 89bhp variant of the same four-
cylinder oil-burner is also available. Although the model with the lower power output wins the residual value race, it feels a little sluggish on the road.

The official 0-62mph sprint time is 13.9 seconds, while poor response at low revs makes it a frustrating partner in town. Ensuring your Polo has the right showroom appeal will also help to protect its future value. Steer clear of garish colour options and make sure you specify metallic paint and air-con.

Condition has the biggest impact on a car’s value, so avoid cheap aftermarket modifications. Superminis are prone to personalisation as they’re often owned by young drivers, but keeping your vehicle clean, well maintained and original is the key to protecting its price.

TOP 5 SUPERMINI CHAMPS
1. Volkswagen Polo - 1.6 TDI SE 5dr - 54.1 per cent
2. SEAT Ibiza - S (A/C) 1.4 TDI 3dr - 52.8 per cent
3. Mazda 2 - Tamura 1.3 3dr - 50.1 per cent
4. Honda Jazz - S 1.2 i-VTEC - 49.9 per cent
5. Suzuki Swift - Sport 1.6 - 49.6 per cent

TOP BUY: VW Polo 1.6 TDI SE 5dr
Sector: Supermini
Price: £13,205
Residual after 3yrs/30,000 miles: £7,144/54.1 per cent
Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 74bhp
Economy/CO2: 65.7mpg/112g/km