It is the superminis that are the big earners for makers of cars of today, however buyers are demanding and they want a cost effective along with a more than simple way of making their journey.
People want a car that is easy to drive and which is practical, which comes with entertainment systems and plenty of the latest safety technology. The Supermini needs to be more than capable on the roads and cost just pennies to run.
One car that does have this formula which is a winner is the Volkswagen Polo. What’s more it has been updated and it now adds in a new safety kit along with a line of engines that are efficient. The current champ at the moment is the Ford Fiesta as it comes with a good mixture of style and entertaining handling that you just cannot ignore. Thrown into the mix is the Peugeot 208 with its cabin that is classy and kit in the style trim. So which has the most all-round appeal?
The Volkswagen Polo does come out on top, however it is close. It doesn’t have the power of the Fiesta but it doesn’t feel a great deal slower when on the road and it is more refined, has a more upmarket feel and driving manners that are grown up. The price tag is £1,000 lower and it offers fuel economy that is reasonable and it puts the VW as the winner.
The Ford Fiesta comes in at second place and it handles well, plus there is lots of space for passengers along with luggage. The materials in the cabin do come in behind the VW and the 1.0 litre engine is breathless, even with the power advantage. If you can afford to spend another £500 you can get the recommended EcoBoost.
The 208 is very attractive and it has plenty of kit, with an upmarket feel to the interior. However the driving position is awkward and it does take some getting used to the touchscreen controls. It isn’t that much fun to drive as the suspension feels soggy and the controls are sloppy. Both the Volkswagen Polo and the Fiesta are stronger packages all-round.
