First 2018 VW Polo Review Says It's a Good Golf Alternative

This is the first review of the 2018 Polo we've seen. In it, Mat Watson from Carwow travels to Germany for the press event and immediately comes to a conclusion: this not so mini supermini could work as an alternative to the Golf.

Actually, this feels like a rehash of the reviews the old Polo got about eight years ago because it too became significantly larger ar more Golf-like.

But this time, the changes are much more comprehensive, starting with the magical new MQB A0 platform. It's flexible enough to underpin all of the small cars Volkswagen Group will make, including crossovers, while increasing structural rigidity and maximizing the available trunk and passenger space.

However, it's not exactly a perfect car. For example, Volkswagen has downgraded to drum brakes at the back, something we didn't notice until now. It's all a game of giving and taking, as the test of the technology package is top notch. For example, the adaptive cruise control works at all speeds, and the auto emergency braking comes with standard pedestrian detection.

The interior is pretty cool too, what with all that colorful plastic trim being added. There's also a 10-inch display that can take the place of the old-fashioned speedometer and rev counter. But you can read more about the options here.

All the engines are shared with the SEAT Ibiza, but the Polo is that little bit more comfortable. The premium German badge also means that the soundproofing is better and the dash is made from soft plastic. So which engine should you buy? Definitely the 1.0 TSI. It might be a little rougher than its 1.2 TSI predecessor, but it combines just the right amount of power and decent fuel economy.