Volkswagen Polo 2015-2019

Features: It’s among the classiest looking hatches around. The clean lines and the conventional shape makes it stand out of the current crowd of 'modern' looking hatchbacks. The design is in sync with rest of the Volkswagen family and is accompanied by robust build quality. The GT variants add a sportier set of wheels, black wing mirrors and a spoiler to go with the added power. They might look borderline boring and not have much in terms of room for rear seat occupants. But, the build quality is like nothing else in the segment. The top-spec trim gets goodies such as a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and cruise control. Volkswagen offers dual airbags and anti-lock brakes as standard across the range, which isn’t surprising.

Engine: The German hatch can be had with one of three engines. The options include a 1.0-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel on the standard variants and a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol and a souped up version of the diesel on the GT trims. Volkswagen are looking to replace the 1.2TSi engine with a new 1.0-litre turbo petrol that could make anywhere between 85PS - 115PS depending on the state of tune Volkswagen gives it. If you’re looking to have fun, the TSi is the one to pick. The diesel can munch highway miles for eons, and the three-cylinder naturally aspirated motor is best avoided.

Rivals: Hyundai Elite i20: The one that has it all! The Elite i20 brings a sense of class and features to this segment like no other. Premium build, loads of kit on offer, looks that turns heads and space for five. What more do ya need, eh? Honda Jazz: With space that would shame a few apartments in Mumbai, the Honda Jazz is a sensible hatch for the practical lot. The engines are refined, equipment levels are on par with its peers and it’s backed up by Honda’s repute of reliability and after sales support. Maruti Suzuki Baleno: A properly well-rounded package, the Baleno is hard to fault. It’s got the right mix of fun, practicality, tech and frugality.

Variants: The Polo comes in a total of 10 variants. Prices start at Rs 5.14 lakh and top out at Rs 9.34 lakh. The GT TSi is the driver’s car of the lot, and should be on your list if performance is a key criteria. If it’s bang for buck you’re looking at, the Comfortline variant ticks all the right boxes.