Volkswagen Polo pictures

"The Polo feels a class apart when it comes to quality. With its tight shut lines and top-notch materials, the VW brings big-car premium appeal to the supermini sector." - James Disdale, road test editor. 

The comfort and refinement of the Polo doesn't come at the expense of handling. There's a fair amount of body roll, but grip is good, and the VW isn't unsettled by mid-corner bumps. 

Overall the VW Polo BlueMotion is a vast improvement over the previously unrefined and sluggish diesel version.

The 1.2 TSI is a smooth and effortless performer, and it edged ahead of the Fiesta and Mazda in our in-gear tests. 

The steering is naturally weighted and precise, while visibility is good - making the car easy to place. 

"VW's grown-up appeal extends to its hi-tech options, which include adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera." - Dean Gibson, deputy road test editor. 

At the track, we managed a 0-60mph sprint in 9.9 seconds, comparing favourably with VW's claimed sprint time of 10.8 seconds. 

VW's familiar touchscreen infotainment system includes a 'Think Blue' mode to train you to drive more economically.

Access to the rear of the Polo is easy thanks to wide-opening rear doors, while the flat rear bench can accommodate three adults at a pinch. 

The Polo BlueMotion has ample room for adults in the rear seats.

The boot is a decent size and a nice square shape.

The Polo matches the Mazda's 280-litre boot, but it benefits from a lower load lip and wider opening. There's a flase boot floor to create a flat loadbay when the rear seats are folded.