2003 Volkswagen Polo E 55 review from UK and Ireland

Front wheel tracking was out of alignment from the factory and at delivery.

Unusual wear to front tyres at 5000 miles.

Creaking sound from front suspension was worn "bushes" on the "front wishbone" at 9,500 miles.

Knocking sound in the rear of car from loose internal trim by fuel intake and rear shock-absorber mounting at 9,500 miles.

Tracking out of alignment for a second time as was not checked when the "front bushes" were replaced by the dealer.

Paint work on bonnet chips easily on motorways as I find the paint to be quite soft.

The car seems to be under a certain amount of overall tension as it creaks when travelling at slow speeds on uneven roads and speed humps.

Feel very let down by VW as this was my first "brand-new" car and was expecting a higher build quality.

My car has been in the dealer workshop 3 times in 4 months since purchase.

I have lost complete faith and peace of mind in this VW car and by the attitude of VW in the UK to exchange my car for a new vehicle.

The car is actually a great vehicle with exception of poor build quality in the areas that I have mentioned.

Great fuel economy and a very smooth ride.

High quality interior gives the vehicle a very 1st class feel.

Plenty of room in the rear load area with an added advantage of removable rear seats.

The small 1.2 55bhp engine is great and performs perfectly well in the city and cruising between 70mph & 80mph on the motorway.

I tried the 1.2 65bhp model, but found it slower and not as "peppy" in the city.