Is the VW Polo a match for our A1? – 29 March 2012
If you’ve seen the April 2012 issue of CAR magazine, you’ll know that I recently tested the VW Polo 1.4 Match back to back against our A1 1.6 TDI S-line long-term test car. It's an intriguing test of whether you should splash the cash on a premium badge or not.How did the two superminis match up against each other? Let’s start with design. The Polo doesn’t have much flair, just a wholesome solidity typical of VW, whereas the A1 carries off a more unique style, outside at least. Inside it encapsulates the usual Audi cabin style - there's more silver splashed here and there, where the Polo keeps the sober Germanic black matt styling. Not very exciting.
It’s quite a shock to switch from one to the other. The Polo and A1 drive completely differently. Ok, our Polo was a 1.4 petrol to our A1's laidback diesel, but the the A1 to me feels sturdy, solid, with firmer controls and weightier steering. The Polo Match serves up a softer ride, a bit more wobble through corners, and lighter controls and steering response. Considering they are essentially the same underneath, I was surprised by their different characteristics.
The cost difference between these two is astonishing, too. Our Audi A1 in toppy S-line trim is a whopping £6175 more than the Polo! Here is how our cars were specced:
Audi A1 1.6 TDI S Line
• Ice Silver paint - £510• 18in seven-spoke alloys - £410
• Tech package – sat-nav, HDD based music interface - £1375
• Light and rain sensors - £125
• Electronic climate control - £330
• Audi sound system - £225
Extras: £2975
Total: £ 20,840
VW Polo 1.4 Match
• Touchscreen navigation/radio system 5in colour screen, music interface - £840• Mats front and rear - £75
• Leather trimmed steering wheel - £185
• Alarm with interior protection - £200
Extras: £1300
Total: £14,665
source: carmagazine
