Best Light Car over $20,000

This is a new category, introduced to look at the premium end of the light car market, where buyers are prepared to pay more for what they want but expectations are also higher.

Polo 66TDI Comfortline is a tiny car that’s big on ability, quality, safety and features.  This smart looking five-door hatchback brings a touch of German luxury design and attention to detail to the light car sector. It also tends to be more involving and enjoyable to drive.

Supporting the solid construction, six airbags and electronic stability control deliver a reassuring five-star safety rating.

For a diesel, the 66 kW engine is smooth and quiet, with a strong 230 Nm of torque developed between 1700 and 2500 rpm providing class-leading drivability. Unlike many diesel models that are manual only, Polo offers the choice of a five-speed manual or seven-speed auto DSG transmission.

Polo’s combination of a comfortable ride, securely planted road feel and precise steering is a real standout.

In the context of this class, leg room is reasonable and the head room is good. Polo’s wide opening rear hatch provides easy access to a small but useable luggage compartment.

A close check of ongoing ownership expenses, such as servicing, repairs and insurance, shows the Polo 66 TDI’s costs over five years to be the lowest in class.