New Ford Fiesta ST vs new Volkswagen Polo GTI
Is the Ford Fiesta ST still the affordable hot hatch to beat? This new one is here to prove that it is – but first it has to see off Volkswagen’s latest Polo GTI...
Our verdict
There’s only one way you’ll be disappointed with the new Fiesta ST: if you’ve been lucky enough to drive its predecessor. The old car was more agile, more fun and, surprisingly, rode British roads with a bit more fluidity. We know this because we’ve driven both cars back to back. But the margins are small and the new ST is still an absolute cracker. It’s by far the best sub-£25k hot hatch you can buy and in some respects – namely interior quality and infotainment – actually betters its predecessor.
The Polo GTI? Well, it’s comfier, but it’s neither as fun nor as capable through the bends. It simply isn’t as good a hot hatch.
1st Ford Fiesta ST
For Sweet chassis balance; fruity engine note; punchy motor; slick gearchange
Against Inconsistent steering weight; agitated ride; no auto emergency braking
Read our full Ford Fiesta ST review
Find a great Ford Fiesta ST deal
2nd Volkswagen Polo GTI
For Stronger performance; comfier ride; quieter at speed; better infotainment
Against Uninspiring handling; less evocative engine sound; smaller boot
Read our full Volkswagen Polo GTI review
Find a great Volkswagen Polo GTI deal
Specifications: Ford Fiesta ST 1.5T ST-3 Performance Pack 3dr
Engine 3cyl, 1497cc, turbo, petrol
List price £22,345
Target price £21,242
Power 197bhp @ 6000rpm
Torque 214lb ft @ 1600-4000rpm
Gearbox 6-spd manual
0-60mph 6.8sec
Top speed 144mph
Gov't fuel economy 47.1mpg
Test mpg 41.1mpg
CO2 emissions 136g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen Polo GTI
Engine 4cyl, 1984cc, turbo, petrol
List price £23,020
Target price £21,358
Power 197bhp @ 4400-6000rpm
Torque 236lb ft @ 1500-4350rpm
Gearbox 7-spd dual-clutch automatic
0-60mph 6.4sec
Top speed 147mph
Gov't fuel economy 47.9mpg
Test mpg 39.3mpg
CO2 emissions 134g/km
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