Skip advert
Advertisement

Polo’s big challenge

VW Polo, Ford Fiesta, Mazda 2, Renault Clio (Issue 1,080)

auto express

Any supermini that’s worth its salt has to measure up to the Ford Fiesta, so when the new Volkswagen Polo arrived in the Auto Express car park, its main rival was ready and waiting.

And so were the Mazda 2 and the new-look Renault Clio, which joined the convoy as our testers headed from our London HQ to Liverpool to put them through their paces.

The Fiesta came out on top in this battle of the diesel superminis, which didn’t raise too many eyebrows – but the fact the Polo trailed in behind its Japanese and French rivals was a surprise. Its lack of pace and refinement cost it dear in such talented company.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £21,270Avg. savings £4,638 off RRP*Used from £9,809
MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £10,300 off RRP*Used from £11,751
Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,255Avg. savings £1,912 off RRP*Used from £7,350
Audi A3

Audi A3

RRP £26,295Avg. savings £3,075 off RRP*Used from £10,295
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Who needs hybrids? Diesel Skoda breaks world record with 1,759 miles on one tank
Record breaking Skoda Superb fuel run - car driven by Rally driver Miko Marczyk

Who needs hybrids? Diesel Skoda breaks world record with 1,759 miles on one tank

Rally driver Miko Marczyk has driven from Poland to Paris (and back) in a diesel Skoda Superb
News
24 Oct 2025
Chinese hybrid mega test: the truth about PHEV range and efficiency
Chinese hybrid SUV mega test - header image, front static

Chinese hybrid mega test: the truth about PHEV range and efficiency

There’s a tidal wave of Chinese SUVs hitting our shores, but are they any good? We test five new hybrid models to find out
Features
29 Oct 2025
The Zeekr 9X has landed! Chinese SUV hits London ahead of brand’s 2026 launch
Zeekrs London

The Zeekr 9X has landed! Chinese SUV hits London ahead of brand’s 2026 launch

Exclusive interview with the boss of Chinese premium brand about its UK introduction
News
30 Oct 2025