Volkswagen Polo vs Renault Clio: Which should you buy?
The Volkswagen Polo – one of the most popular compact hatchbacks in our market – recently received an update, but in the meantime, an all-new Renault Clio has arrived to entice local buyers to purchase the French newcomer instead. Does the stylish Clio pip the Polo and, more importantly, which one should you buy?
The Polo is the second most popular model in the Wolfsburg-based firm’s global portfolio (after the Tiguan family car) and Volkswagen South Africa’s (VWSA) 6th-generation compact hatchback recently underwent an update. With the revised model, the German brand seeks to consolidate – and expand on – the model’s sales success, not only in Mzansi, but in other markets, all around the world.
However, success for the more sophisticated (and, therefore, pricier) Polo isn’t necessarily guaranteed – the arrival of the stylish new Renault Clio 5 will certainly give local buyers something else to consider. The new Clio was revealed in 2019, but its arrival in the local market was delayed because of various factors. However, the Clio is here now and it’s raring to take the fight to its German rival.
The main aim of this article is to help you, the consumer, make an informed buying decision if you are considering both of these models. To help you, we will provide need-to-know information about the models, as well as our insights (based on available vehicle information) and our experience with the cars in question.
This article will cover key aspects including Engine Performance, Efficiency & Handling, Interior Features & Safety, Dimensions & Practicality and Pricing and Warranty details.
Please note that because design and styling are subjective, we will not pass judgment on the Polo and Clio’s exterior styling – you can decide for yourself which of the 2 cars looks best.
What to Buy?
The Volkswagen Polo was once the default “first new car” that people bought, but, like most compact hatchbacks, it has become progressively more expensive as its packaging, onboard technology and safety features have advanced (mostly to satisfy markets to which the Polo is exported). Even so, the Polo is arguably still the segment leader when it comes to performance and perceived quality and will, therefore, continue to appeal to those who can afford to buy one. Furthermore, with a choice of 3 powertrains (with manual and auto transmissions available), the Polo caters well for local buyers’ needs.
As for the Renault Clio 5, it’s a much-improved product compared to its predecessor and the combination of the newcomer’s keen pricing, generous specification and long warranty will be particularly attractive to buyers on a tight budget. However, the chink in the French contender’s armour is the fact that there’s no automatic transmission available in the range (as of March 2022 but one is expected later this year) and that fact alone will force many potential customers (many of which commute) to look elsewhere, at least until such time that Renault introduces a self-shifting derivative. A more powerful engine will also enhance the Clio’s popularity.
That said, if a car with an automatic transmission is not a priority for you, the new Clio should be on your shortlist, especially if your budget for a new compact hatchback stretches no further than R350k.
The Volkswagen Polo – one of the most popular compact hatchbacks in our market – recently received an update, but in the meantime, an all-new Renault Clio has arrived to entice local buyers to purchase the French newcomer instead. Does the stylish Clio pip the Polo and, more importantly, which...
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