Volkswagen Golf vs Volkswagen Polo: used car comparison

The Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo are the brand's two most popular models, but which one is best for buying a used car? Both are compact hatchbacks with plenty of features, high-quality interiors, and engine options that range from ultra-efficient to sporty. Deciding what's best for you isn't easy.

Here's our guide to the Polo, which went on sale in 2017, and the Golf, which was sold new between 2013 and 2019 (the brand new Golf went on sale in 2020).

Size and Features

The most obvious difference between the Golf and Polo is the size. The Golf is larger, about the same size as compact hatchbacks like the Ford Focus. The Polo is slightly taller than the Golf, but shorter and narrower, and overall is a smaller car similar in size to a "supermini" like the Ford Fiesta. 

In addition to being bigger, the Golf is also more expensive, but generally comes with more features as standard. Which ones will vary depending on the trim level you go for. The good news is that all versions of both cars come with DAB radio, air conditioning and a touchscreen infotainment system.

Higher-spec versions of the Golf are equipped with navigation, front and rear parking sensors and large alloy wheels, as well as a reversing camera and leather seats. Unlike the Polo, you can get plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions of the Golf and even an all-electric version called the e-Golf.

Some older versions of Golf may not have the same features as later versions. This model was on sale from 2013 to 2019, and updated models from 2017 have more modern equipment.

The Polo is a newer car, the latest model of which has been on sale since 2017. It is available with some equally impressive features, some of which would have been expensive when they were new. Highlights include LED headlights, an opening panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control and a self-parking feature.

Interior and technology

Both cars have the stylish yet understated interiors you'd expect from a Volkswagen. Everything feels a bit more premium than, for example, the Ford Focus or Fiesta. 

There isn't much difference between the two, although the Golf's interior ambience feels a bit more upscale (and slightly less modern) than the Polo's. Part of the Polo's more youthful nature comes from the fact that when it's new, you can specify your choice of color panels that create a brighter, bolder vibe.

Earlier Golf models have a less sophisticated infotainment system, so look for cars from 2017 onwards if you want the latest features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems were not available until 2016. Later Golfs received a larger, higher resolution touchscreen, although earlier systems (with more buttons and dials) are arguably easier to use.

The Polo is newer and has the same modern infotainment system across the range. All models except the entry-level S trim have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Luggage compartment and practicality

The Golf is a larger car, so it's no surprise that it has more interior space than the Polo. However, the difference is smaller than you might expect because the Polo is impressively roomy for its size. Two adults can fit in the back of any car without any problems. If you need to carry three adults in the back then the Golf is the best option with a bit more knee and shoulder room.

Trunks in both cars are large compared to most rivals. The largest in the Golf is 380 liters, while the Polo has 351 liters. You can easily fit your luggage in the trunk of a Golf for the weekend, but you may need to pack a little more carefully to fit it all into the Polo. Both cars have plenty of other storage options, including large front door pockets and handy cup holders.

Most Golfs used will be five-door models, but you will also find a few three-door versions. Three-door models aren't as easy to get in and out of, but they're just as spacious. The Polo is only available in a five-door version. If maximum luggage space is a priority, you might want to consider the Golf version with its huge 605-litre boot.

What is the best way to ride?

Both the Golf and Polo are very comfortable to drive, thanks to suspension that strikes a great balance of comfort and handling. If you do a lot of motorway miles, you'll find the Golf is quieter and more comfortable at high speeds. If you do a lot of city driving, you'll find the Polo's smaller size makes it easier to navigate narrow streets or squeeze into parking spaces.

The R-Line versions of both cars have larger alloy wheels and feel slightly sportier (though less comfortable) than the other models, with a slightly firmer ride. If sportiness and performance are important to you, the Golf GTI and Golf R models will give you a lot of pleasure, they are very easy and simple to recommend. There's also a sporty Polo GTI, but it's not as fast or as fun to drive as the sporty Golf models. 

You have a huge choice of engines for any car. They are all modern and efficient, but while every engine in the Golf gives you quick acceleration, the least powerful engines in the Polo make it go a little slow.

What is cheaper to own?

The cost of Golf and Polo varies considerably depending on which versions you choose to compare. In general, you will find that buying a Polo is cheaper, although there will be crossover points depending on the age and specifications of the cars you are considering.

When it comes to running costs, the Polo will again cost less because it is smaller and lighter and therefore more fuel efficient. Your insurance premiums are also likely to be lower due to lower insurance groups.

Plug-in hybrid (GTE) and electric (e-Golf) versions of the Golf will set you back more than most petrol or diesel versions, but they can lower your cost of ownership. If you have somewhere to charge the GTE and mostly make short trips, you can use its electric-only range and keep gas costs to a minimum. With e-Golf, you can count on electricity costs that need to be several times less than what you pay for petrol or diesel to cover the same mileage.

Safety and reliability

Volkswagen is renowned for its reliability. It ranked average in the JD Power 2019 UK Vehicle Dependability Study, which is an independent survey of customer satisfaction, and scored above the industry average.

The company offers a three-year warranty on its 60,000-mile vehicles with unlimited mileage for the first two years, so later models will continue to be covered. This is what you get with many cars, but some brands offer longer warranties: Hyundai and Toyota offer five-year coverage, while Kia gives you a seven-year warranty.

Both the Golf and Polo received the maximum five stars in testing by the Euro NCAP safety organization, although the Golf's rating was published in 2012 when the standards were lower. The Polo was tested in 2017. Most later Golfs and all Polos come equipped with six airbags and automatic emergency braking that can bring the car to a halt if you don't react to an impending crash.

dimensions

Volkswagen Golf

Length: 4255mm

Width: 2027 mm (including mirrors)

Height: 1452mm

Luggage compartment: 380 liters

Volkswagen Polo

Length: 4053mm

Width: 1964 mm (including mirrors)

Height: 1461mm

Luggage compartment: 351 liters

Verdict

There is no bad choice here because the Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo are great cars and can be recommended. 

Polo has a huge appeal. It's one of the best small hatchbacks around, and it's cheaper to buy and run than a Golf. It is very practical for its size and does everything well.

The Golf is more attractive thanks to more space and a wider choice of engines. It has a slightly more comfortable interior than the Polo, as well as three-door, five-door, or station wagon options. This is our winner by the smallest margin.

You will find a huge selection of high quality used Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Polo vehicles for sale on Cazoo. Find the one that's right for you, then buy it online for home delivery or pick it up at one of our customer service centers.

We are constantly updating and expanding our range. If you can't find one today, check back later to see what's available or set up promotional alerts to be the first to know when we have vehicles that suit your needs.