Volkswagen Polo VI (AW) (2017 – 2025)

Reliability score : 8.4/10

The sixth-generation Volkswagen Polo (code name AW) marks a major turning point for the Wolfsburg city car. Based on the modular MQB A0 platform (shared with the Seat Ibiza and Audi A1), it has grown considerably to exceed 4 meters, offering interior space worthy of a compact car from the segment above. Positioning & Evolution: - Phase 1 (2017-2021): Introduction of unprecedented technological content (Digital Cockpit, advanced driver assistance systems). However, the quality of the interior plastics (hard) was disappointing compared to the previous generation. - Phase 2 (Facelift 2021-2025): Aesthetic update (front LED strip, Golf-style widened rear lights), improvement of standard equipment (digital gauges for all) and definitive abandonment of diesel. Overall, the Polo VI is a mature, r

✅ Strengths

Record-breaking interior space for the category (rear legroom).
Generous boot volume (351 liters).
Very sound road handling, worthy of a compact car (Golf).
Sound insulation and ride comfort on roads/motorways.
1.0 TSI 95 hp engine: the perfect choice (economical, powerful, reliable).
High resale value on the used car market.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Hard and basic interior plastics on Phase 1 (2017-2021).
Reliability of the DSG7 gearbox (DQ200) still inconsistent in 100% urban use (premature wear of the dry dual clutch).
1.0 MPI 65/80 hp engine anemic, dangerous for overtaking on the road.
Recurring infotainment system bugs on early model years.
High prices for both new and used compared to the competition.

🎯 Verdict

The Volkswagen Polo VI (AW) is a safe bet on the used car market. It has shed its 'small car' image to become a true mini-Golf, capable of tackling long journeys without fatigue. The expert's choice: Avoid diesel versions (unsuitable for this category today) and the 1.0 MPI (too sluggish). The 1.0 TSI 95 hp with manual gearbox is the absolute best buy: it is extremely reliable, economical, and sufficiently powerful. If you insist on an automatic gearbox, opt for a recent model (post-2020) or ensure that the DSG7 has been driven gently in the city. The facelifted version (post-2021) is preferable for its significantly improved interior finish and modernized equipment.