It’s been a month since editorial intern Siya Mbaduli got behind the wheel of the Volkswagen Polo Life TSI and it’s safe to say the initial charm hasn’t faded for him.
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Time spent: Two of three months
Distance covered: 1 300 km
Average fuel consumption: 6.7 L/100 km
We like:IQ Light: LED Matrix Headlights
We don’t like:Lack of sixth gear noticeable at motorway speeds
The peppy 1.0-litre TSI continues to impress with its responsiveness, particularly in city driving. The manual transmission, while a touch notchy at times, offers a satisfying level of engagement, especially when navigating twisty backroads.
Related: Living With It – Volkswagen Polo 1,0 TSI 70 kW Life Manual [Update 1]
Fuel efficiency remains a strong point. Daily commutes have consistently yielded figures in the high sixes per 100 km range. The Polo’s combination of small engine and light kerb weight make it a joy to drive around town; parking is a breeze, and the light steering and easily modulated clutch greatly aid low-speed manoeuvrability.
Long-distance travel has uncovered a couple of chinks in the Polo’s armour, though. At motorway speed, the lack of a sixth gear becomes apparent. At 120 km/h the revs climb past the 3 000 r/min mark, impacting the otherwise impressive NVH levels and fuel economy. While perfectly comfortable for short trips, the back seats may prove a little cramped for taller folks on extended journeys.
Overall, the Polo Life continues to be a compelling choice for city dwellers and those prioritising fuel efficiency. It’s a car that thrives in urban environments, offering a fun and fuss-free driving experience.
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Find the full feature in the August issue of CAR Magazine.
