When the Polo goes on sale in 2010, it will be the last among the spate of premium hatchback launches says AutoCar (July '09), but it won't have a problem standing out from the pack. It may not have the flair of the Grande Punto or the futuristic shape of the Jazz but it looks every bit a VW with its strong haunches and solid look say the magazine testers' fresh from a test drive in Sardinia.

Unfortunately the engine options are not so great. At launch in India, there will be just a base model with a 1.2-litre petrol similar to the Fabia's but developing 75bhp. But within a few months, more exciting options are expected including a state-of-the-art 1.2 TDI diesel developing 75bhp and a potent 1.2 TSI petrol developing a stonking 104bhp.

AutoCar testers (July '09) drove the 1.2 TSI motor which was smooth, torque and has a promising fuel efficiency. The steering was pretty quick too with the Polo diving into corners and the suspension too works with a quiet efficiency. In short the ride is nothing short of incredible.