The Polo GTI, Volkswagen's junior hot hatch, has gained a facelift, some minor mechanical changes and a refreshed interior - what's it like?
While I’m sure a manual would be more fun, it’s hard to argue against the DSG, because its easy-going but effective character suits the Polo GTI’s nature perfectly. That being said, it could be a bit smoother when just pottering about and has the annoying trait typical of modern autos where it lugs the engine in D because it’s tuned for the WLTP fuel economy cycle, but then hangs on to gears needlessly in Sport mode.
It’s much the same story with the handling: it’s good fun up to a point, but stops short of being truly engrossing. The Polo turns in well, grips hard and could even be persuaded to rotate gently on a trailing throttle if it weren’t for the always-on stability control. The latter point is frustrating, as there is a big, physical button for it in the centre console, which only puts it in a sport mode.
Presumably, however, list price will be less of a deciding factor than the different ways in which these cars approach the concept of the junior hot hatch. If you’re after the ultimate driver’s car, the Polo isn’t it.