With more than 14 million units sold to date, the Polo is one of the world’s most successful compact cars. Including all different versions, the Polo has even found over 16 million owners worldwide.
The sixth generation has a fully new exterior design, which makes the five-door hatchback appear sportier and more grown-up. At the same time, the new Polo has been made bigger than its predecessor in every dimension. As a result, it offers more space for driver and passengers, plus significantly increased boot volume, which has gone up from 280 to 351 litres.
The new Polo is one of the world’s most advanced compact cars. This is reflected in such advanced features as the multitude of driver assistance systems that were previously reserved for the Golf and Passat class.
In addition to the three standard Trendline, Comfortline and Highline trim lines, the special edition Polo Beats (with special features that include a 300-watt sound system) and the sporty top model, the 200bhp Polo GTI provide added variety.
One option again on offer is adaptive cruise control ACC (which can now be activated up to a speed of 210km/h). New options available in the Polo are the Blind Spot Detection lane change system with Rear Traffic Alert, the semi-automated Park Assist system for exiting parking spaces and a “manoeuvring function”. The latter provides automatic protection from any bumps while parking. The optional Keyless Access locking and engine starting system, which is also new, can be used to unlock and start up the Polo.
In addition, the Polo is the first Volkswagen Group model in which a new generation of the Active Info Display is available. The functionality and user-friendliness of the digital instruments are something completely new in this segment. At the same time, the Polo has been given the latest generation of infotainment systems with display diagonals ranging from 6.5 to 8 inches, all of which are glass-encased devices that are as sophisticated as high-end smartphones, giving the interior a technical look.
A large range of fresh new colours (a total of 14 exterior colours are available) and 12 wheels (14- to 18-inch, some painted in contrasting colour), dashpads in a multitude of decors and 11 different seat covers make the Polo more colourful and more individual.
Further personalisation options include full LED headlights, LED tail-lights, an Air Care Climatronic system with humidity and sun sensor plus allergen filter, wireless charging for smartphones (optionally including inductive antenna connection), Sport Select running gear with adjustable shock absorbers and one of the biggest panoramic sunroofs in this class. 
Read our 2016 comparison of VW Polo, Renault Clio, Peugeot 208 and Ford Fiesta.
Read our 2011 comparison of VW Polo, Honda Jazz and Suzuki Swift.
Read our 2010 comparison of VW Polo, Renault Clio and Peugeot 207.
