A used Vivo won’t break the bank

If SA’s best-seller is out of your reach as new, this used one might fit your budget

BEING South Africa’s number one selling passenger car for many years, does say a lot about a vehicle. Value for money, reliability and durability are but a few of the Polo Vivo’s trademarks that has made it a best seller over the last few years. Throw in its excellent residual values and its clear why its such a popular buy at this price point.

With a mere 9 640km on the clock it was no surprise that this Polo we tested was still in a great condition. The previous owner treated the vehicle well and there were no flaws or imperfections on the bodywork that we could notice. The odd scuffmark on the door sills were noticed as you do find on most pre-owned vehicles. Overall the vehicle was in great shape, as you would have expected with such low mileage.

STILL A PLEASURE TO DRIVE

Although the engine tech in the Vivo by today’s standards are by no means state of the art, it still delivers a remarkably satisfying all-round driving experience. The trusted 1.4-litre 8-valve power unit promises 63kW of power and 132Nm of torque. Although not huge on outright performance in 8-valve configuration the Vivo delivers fantastic usable lowdown torque, which makes for a lovely every-day city car. The silky-smooth shifting 5-speed manual gearbox further enhances the effortless driving experience. Although not as fuel efficient as some of its more advanced smaller engine turbocharged rivals, it would still return a decent fuel economy figure of 7.1l/100km.

Ride comfort would probably be another strong selling point. The suspension set-up really proved very comfortable and compliant on most road surfaces. Definitely class leading in terms of comfort. Low noise, vibration and harshness levels also impressed. As expected after 9 600km of mileage the car drove like a new one and no funny noises or rattles were noticed.

DECENT LEVEL OF KIT

The recently upgraded Polo Vivo certainly offers a far more modern cabin, with improved levels of quality. Especially the trim on the dashboard is now softer to the touch, although some of the harder plastic trim on the doors have been retained. Overall the cabin the fabrics and trim remain of good quality and will most certainly be durable in the long run. Standard kit included most of the essential creature comforts, although the Polo was certainly not as well equipped as some of it’s competitors at this specific price point. Features include: • Air-conditioning

• Electric windows (front only) • Central Locking

•Bluetooth connectivity •Multi-function steering wheel

•Dual Airbags

•On-Board trip computer

•USB Port

•Multi-media infotainment system ABS braking

•Alloy wheels.

WORKS WELL AS A FAMILY CAR

As a small to medium-sized hatchback the Vivo felt quite spacious. Head and legroom certainly proved more than adequate for even taller people. Boot space compares well with most of

its rivals at 280 litres, while this could be increased by folding down the rear seats to 952-litres.

VERDICT

Yes, the Vivo might not be the most striking hatch out there, but it’s such an accomplished all-rounder that it would be easy to recommend it to any buyer in this price range. This test vehicle was well cared for and offered good value. You will appreciate its easy-going nature and good quality at the price. It’s not as economical as some of its competitors, and a maintenance plan is only available as an option.

Contact Oscar Malatije from Lindsay Saker VW Germiston at 072 154 5195 or visit www.imperialauto.co.za