HEAD TO HEAD FORD FIESTA LX TDCi v VOLKSWAGEN POLO 66 TDI
Sydney Morning Herald
Saturday February 12, 2011
VOLKSWAGEN POLO 66 TDIVALUEOn par with Polo but Bluetooth standard and is almost $1000 cheaper. Also European-designed but Australian-delivered Fiestas are built in Thailand. No auto option.INSIDEFunky seat trim and silver highlights but cheap plastics detract and steering wheel only gets partial leather.ENGINENot as quiet or refined as Polo, with diesel rattle entering cabin. Good torque spread and lively throttle response.HOW IT DRIVESDirect and well-weighted steering, good grip and predictable handling. High rear window compromises parking.SAFETY Seven airbags, stability control and five-star crash rating.VERDICTBy no means a loser, the funky Fiesta offers a rewarding driving experience but it's overshadowed by the Polo.FORD FIESTA LX TDCiVALUECruise control, multifunction leather steering wheel, 15-inch alloy wheels and trip computer. Seven-speed dual-clutch auto a $2500 option, as is Bluetooth (from $495).INSIDEDark and sombre ambience but built like a bank vault that's well-isolated and upmarket.ENGINESmooth and quiet performer with minimal diesel rattle. Offers a useful 30Nm more torque than Fiesta.HOW IT DRIVESFeels as relaxed and secure as a large car at speed. Corners confidently and responsive steering makes it a breeze around town.SAFETYSix airbags, stability control and five-star crash rating.VERDICTThe 2010 Drive Car of the Year winner sets many light-car benchmarks. Worth the modest premium.
© 2011 Sydney Morning Herald