The Volkswagen Polo makes for a fantastic everyday runabout. Is it still as much fun as before?
It is all too easy these days to hate on the Polo 1.0 TSI. “It’s too old now… It’s about time they discontinued it. There are better cars out there at this price point!” and so on – these are some of the arguments people make. Maybe these people have simply forgotten how much fun the Polo really is. For me, the Polo has always been right near the top of my list of hatchbacks to buy. The past few weeks of driving this little hatch have been rather exciting. There is something about German engineering that puts their cars way ahead in my book, compared to even more expensive cars.
The 1.0 TSi loves to be revved to its 6,500rpm redline.
Sure, the Polo doesn’t have a long list of features, like other modern hatchbacks do, but it doesn’t miss out on anything that would hamper its utility as such. If I really had to nitpick, I would have liked to have a reversing camera, but then the rear parking sensors suffice for a car this small. It also misses out on wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but, frankly, I don’t mind simply connecting it via the cable.
Elbow rest fouls with the elbow even while folded.
So, most of the missing features aren’t really a deal-breaker. To put it simply, the Polo is like a Casio G-shock in the world of smartwatches – basic, tough-built and does what it is supposed to do. Speaking of tough build, I really appreciate the solid thunk of the doors shutting. It is a constant reminder of how well built the Polo is.
Adjustable steering makes it easy to find a comfy position.
And then, there is the 1.0-litre TSI engine, which is really what makes the Polo enjoyable. It’s almost difficult not to give in and stay planted on the throttle to ride the strong surge of torque; it is very, very addictive. I also like the clean shifts of the 6-speed manual gearbox, which make visiting the 6,800rpm redline a lot of fun.
Rear seat is a bit too tight on legroom.
Recently, I had to make a run to the airport to drop the missus for a flight and, as usual, we were running late; the estimated time of arrival at the airport didn’t look promising. The Polo came to the rescue with its compact dimensions, and, combined with a little enthusiastic driving, we arrived at the departure gate just in time. I have really come to appreciate the way the little VW stays planted at speed and the way its suspension deals with Mumbai’s not-so-good road surfaces. The steering does feel heavy at slow speeds, but that’s soon forgotten once you’re on the move.
It is turning out to be a fun car for the city bustle. I think I am going to hang on to this long-termer for a bit; whoever wants the keys can put forth their argument.
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