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VW is extending its GTI brand, synonymous with the Golf, down the range, and this 150PS 1.8-litre Polo is the most powerful version of the supermini yet.

Excellent

The Polo GTI certainly looks the part, taking the honeycomb grille and bodykit from its big brother to look like a baby Golf GTI.

Good

Grip and driver involvement. Climate control, eight airbags and cruise control standard. Styling stands out. New 18in alloys look great.

Average

The list price is pretty steep - a Seat Ibiza with the same engine is the thick end of £3000 cheaper and a Fiesta ST is £2000 cheaper. A 170PS Mini Cooper S is the same price.

Poor

Dynamically, the Polo is a disappointment compared with the talented Golf GTI. It strikes us as an exercise in style over substance.

Verdict

It looks great, but isn't a baby Golf GTI to drive. The Ibiza sister car is so much cheaper, but without the premium badge.

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