The Polo range has plenty of engines to choose from, but none are very gutsy. There are two 1.2s with either 59bhp or 69bhp, but the 79bhp 1.4 is a better bet if you're travelling any distance. The 103bhp 1.6 is disappointing, too. Diesel buyers can choose between two 1.4 units with either 69bhp or 79bhp, or a 1.9 with 99bhp.

The Polo is geared more towards comfort than fun. The soft suspension gives a cushy ride on most surfaces, but doesn’t control body movement well, so the Polo lurches through corners and over larger bumps. The steering is light, but low on feedback. Despite its 4x4 styling, the Dune is front-wheel-drive only and offers no dynamic advantages over the standard Polo.

For a small car, the Polo subdues noises from the outside world incredibly well. Unfortunately, it can't do anything about the noise from under its own bonnet. The petrol engines have to be revved hard to get anything like good performance, while the clattery old diesels put out the sort of noise and vibration that only tractor drivers should put up with.

Polo prices are rather steep, but resale values are strong. With several diesels, the lean-burning BlueMotion model and the frugal 1.2 petrol engine in the range, economy figures are impressive. Insurance costs are reasonable for all but the higher-powered diesel models.

The Polo's interior is short on visual appeal, but it's solid. A few soft-touch surfaces raise its appeal, but most materials are only average. Improved quality and mechanical reliability has helped boost its performance in the JD Power customer satisfaction survey, although it is still rated as just average.

All Polos have front airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard. Side airbags are standard for all but 59bhp 1.2-litre models, but curtain airbags cost extra across the range. Stability control is optional for higher-powered models. An engine immobiliser is standard on all versions, but only SE and Sport versions have an alarm as standard.

All models have two-way steering adjustment, but not all of them have seat-height movement and the driver sits too high without it. The seats are also soft and rather unsupportive. The simple dash is easy to navigate and the high-set centre console puts everything in easy reach.

The Polo copes adequately with four adults, but many rivals offer a good deal more cabin space. The boot is decently sized and well shaped, but the floor is not flush with the opening, which affects access. Three- and five-door models are available.

Entry-level E models look sparsely equipped, providing a CD player and central locking but little else. Other models have air-con, alloy wheels and electric front windows and door mirrors. SE includes remote central locking, an alarm and driver's seat height adjustment. Sport models get lowered suspension and foglights. Bluemotion models do without some kit to save weight, but still get alloys wheels, a CD player and trip computer.