Used test: Ford Fiesta vs Volkswagen Polo vs Citroen C3
The new Ford Fiesta has some big shoes to fill. But is the outgoing model now a good used buy, or would one of its rivals be a better bet?...
Our Verdict
We can see why you might be tempted by the Citroën C3. It’s a little different to the usual small car suspects, and still looks quite stylish, especially compared with the other two, rather plainer cars here. That style continues inside, too, with a snazzy dashboard, and what’s more, you get a comfortable ride, low running costs and a low purchase price.
The trouble is, the other two cars here are a cut above, which makes it hard to recommend the C3. It just feels stodgy and disconcertingly remote to drive, and what’s more, there isn’t much space in the back.
Were this a level playing field price-wise, the VW Polo would most likely take victory. It feels like a larger car than it is, with a comfortable ride, an upmarket interior and plenty of space. True, that dashboard is a bit dour, and the driving position isn’t perfect – but these are mere niggles.
But all prices are not equal in this test, and the Polo’s cost is more than just a niggle. It’s almost half as much again than the other two cars here, and while that’s a justifiable premium over the C3, it isn’t over the Ford Fiesta.
Granted, the Ford’s dashboard is nowhere near as good as the Polo’s, and the fact it didn’t come with alloy wheels as standard is a let-down too. But what you lose in equipment, you gain in enjoyment; the Fiesta is a car that never fails to put a smile on your face, whether you’re zipping around town, pelting down a country road or cruising along a motorway.
It’s also effortlessly easy to drive, cheap to fuel and maintain, reliable and crucially, no more expensive to buy than the Citroën. That, in our eyes, is more than enough reason for it to take first place.
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1st – Ford Fiesta
For Amazing ride and handling; effortless in town; superb driving position; great value
Against Disappointing interior plastics; stingy kit; not the most versatile
Verdict Makes every journey a pleasure, and it’s one of the cheapest, most ubiquitous small cars
Rated 5 out of 5
2nd – Volkswagen Polo
For Smooth ride; impressive noise damping; high-quality interior; simple dashboard; generous kit; strong resale values
Against High prices; offset pedals; bland to drive
Verdict The Polo is as classy, comfortable and refined as a bigger car, but it’s also almost as pricey to buy and run.
Rated 4 out of 5
3rd – Citroën C3
For Strong engine; comfortable ride; stylish, upmarket cabin; comparative rarity
Against Poor body control and steering; no stability control; rear-seat space
Verdict A cosseting ride and a plush interior aren’t enough to make up for the C3’s sloppy handling and cramped back seats.
Rated 3 out of 5
Specifications: Citroën C3 1.4 VTi 95 VTR+
Engine size 1.4-litre petrol
List price when new £13,190
Price today £4000
Power 94bhp
Torque 100lb ft
0-60mph 10.3sec
Top speed 114mph
Fuel economy 47.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 136g/km
Specifications: Ford Fiesta 1.25i 82 Edge 5dr
Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
List price when new £13,124
Price today £4000
Power 80bhp
Torque 84lb ft
0-60mph 13.0sec
Top speed 102mph
Fuel economy 49.6mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 133g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen Polo 1.4 SE 5dr
Engine size 1.4-litre petrol
List price when new £12,720
Price today £5500
Power 84bhp
Torque 97lb ft
0-60mph 12.5sec
Top speed 104mph
Fuel economy 47.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 139g/km
Price today is the guide price for a 2010 model with average mileage and full service history, correct at time of writing
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