Volkswagen Polo (2000-2002) Review

On the road

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There are gains here over the outgoing model, thanks to a smooth, easy gearchange and precise, faster-acting steering. Power steering is optional on the 1.0 - its lightweight engine means that you could probably manage without it - and standard on the others. With the calmer ride comes sharper handling. The steering is too light at speed, but feels far keener and more precise than the old Polo's. In place of the old stodge is a new agility, but you'll still have more fun in a Fiesta or a Fabia than in most Polos.

All the engines have electronic 'drive-by-wire' accelerator control, which works smoothly and stops the engine being fed more air and fuel than it needs - good for economy and emissions. This section would score three stars were it not for the ultra-squirtable TDI's fun factor.

With its 16-valve petrol engines, the Polo is a lively car: choose the 100bhp unit for revvy pace, the 75bhp for a languid, more muscular style.

The little 1.0 hums away sweetly, but it's out of its depth on the open road. The 1.4 8V is no livelier than most makers' 1.2s; of the four 1.4s offered in the new range (surely a record) this is the one to avoid. The one to have, instead, is the three-cylinder TDI with pump-jet injection and huge pulling power. It makes an intriguing noise, sips fuel and overtakes with ease. The bigger 1.9 SDI (that rare thing, a non-turbo diesel) is cheaper but slower, thirstier and much less interesting.