An already polished performer in the burgeoning supermini market, Volkswagen has raised the bar with a thoroughly refreshed Polo, says Iain Dooley of the Press Association.

What's new?

If you look closely you might be able to spot the Volkswagen Polo's new lights. Don't worry if you can't as there's more to the car than meets the eye. This refreshed Polo's strengths lie mainly under its skin, as Volkswagen's boffins have spent most of their time tweaking engine performance and adding improved infotainment and safety kit.

The cabin has also received a makeover. Now closer in looks and feel to the bigger Golf, the appearance of plush materials and a large touchscreen allowing access to the car's infotainment system do much to cement the compact VW's reputation as the most upmarket of all the available superminis.

Looks and image

The Polo might have some new lights but there's more than a hint of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' around VW's premium small car. And with good reason. The Polo's polished exterior and fuss-free sheet metal has been retained, while the cabin remains an example to many at this price point of what can be achieved if you really try.

Hard, scratchy plastics are not to be seen and, while the overall ambience is a dark, sombre one, the end result is a cabin that's easily a match for ones belonging to far bigger and more expensive cars.

Space and practicality

There might be more spacious and versatile cars in the supermini market place but most of them have strayed into the territory marked 'mini people-carrier'. For buyers seeking a conventional three or five-door supermini with room in the back for adults, the Polo easily fits the bill. And with ample cabin oddment storage space, rear seats that fold with no fuss and a generous boot, this 'mini-me' Golf could almost double as a first family car.

Behind the wheel

Although past GTI variants have added a welcome extra dash of spice to the range, you don't buy a Polo to go tearing up the high street. What the car does best is cosset and comfort you on the way to the shops. And. like before, this refreshed Polo does exactly that. Slick controls with ample assistance make sure of it, while ride comfort is more than good enough in the face of poorly-surfaced urban roads.

What justifies the 'new' tag here is a handful of new engines to keep the Polo competitive in the big low CO2 and fuel consumption game. Three-cylinder petrol engines kick off the range in 1.0-litre guise, with 1.2 and 1.4 turbo motors rounding off the line-up. A pair of 1.4-litre motors keep the diesel flag flying. Overall, city types should warm to the petrol triples, while the diesel units easily have the legs to make light work of a motorway slog.

Value for money

The Polo is a surprisingly affordable car but, on lower models, you'll be wise to spend a little more if you want a few extra creature comforts. Factor in low emissions and good economy and it's easy to see the compact VW's appeal.

Who would buy one?

Anyone downsizing from a larger car won't feel cheated when they step into the Polo. The little car's posh cabin is a world away from the real bargain bin alternatives, and the visual clues matching those of the larger Golf do much to add a premium feel by association. If you're an urban-dweller the Polo is small enough to slot into spaces you'd have previously passed by. And if you're after a second or third car to extend the family fleet, the Polo's smart and practical cabin is devoid of any major compromise.

This car summed up in a single word – solid.