Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Dacia Sandero or VW Polo?
In the ever-competitive world of hatchbacks, the 2024 models of Dacia Sandero and VW Polo stand out with their unique offerings. Both models have been staples in their respective segments, offering compelling features for drivers looking for practicality coupled with modernity.
At first glance, both the Dacia Sandero and the VW Polo boast sleek hatchback designs, although they differ in their exact dimensions. The Sandero is slightly longer, measuring up to 4099 mm, and features a broader width of 1848 mm, which promises more interior space. Meanwhile, the Polo cuts a slightly more compact figure at 4074 mm in length and 1751 mm in width, allowing for easier urban navigation.
When it comes to engine performance, the Dacia Sandero offers a broad range of petrol and LPG engines, with power outputs ranging from 67 to 110 HP. It boasts a torque spectrum between 95 Nm to 200 Nm, and its acceleration ranges from a leisurely 16.7 seconds to a sprightly 10 seconds for the 0–100 km/h sprint, depending on the engine choice.
VW Polo, on the other hand, features only petrol engines with power from 80 HP up to a sporty 207 HP, with a maximum torque of 320 Nm in the top variant. The Polo impresses with quicker acceleration, starting from 15.6 seconds down to a rapid 6.5 seconds.
Both hatchbacks offer a manual gearbox as standard, with Dacia allowing an optional CVT in higher trims, providing smoother and more effortless driving. In contrast, the VW Polo is available with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering quicker, almost seamless gear shifts that enhance the driving experience.
Fuel consumption rates present a point of contention between the two competitors. The Sandero records consumption from 5.2 to 7 L/100 km, while the Polo aligns closely with figures from 5.2 to 6.5 L/100 km. When considering CO2 emissions, both also fall within similar efficiency classes of D and E, although the Polo offers configurations with slightly lower emissions, making it a somewhat greener option.
With a trunk capacity of 328 L, the Dacia Sandero provides a competent cargo space, suitable for everyday needs. The VW Polo edges ahead slightly with 351 L of trunk capacity, making it more attractive for those who prioritize luggage space. Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, promising practical use for families and commuters alike.
In terms of technological innovation, the VW Polo tends to have the upper hand, often equipped with advanced infotainment systems and connectivity options across its range. The Dacia Sandero focuses on offering no-nonsense utility with straightforward functionality, including an array of needed features while keeping the price attractive. Both vehicles continue leveraging new tech upgrades more centered on practicality and user-friendliness rather than extravagant electrification or autonomous driving technologies.
The decision between the Dacia Sandero and VW Polo comes down to personal preference. The Sandero is an attractive proposition if you're in the market for a cost-effective, spacious, and straightforward vehicle. Meanwhile, the Polo should appeal to those who seek a blend of high performance with advanced features, wrapped up in a compact yet refined package. Either choice delivers quality and value, ensuring satisfied drivers no matter the road taken.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Dacia Sandero has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 10700 £, while the VW Polo costs 17000 £. That’s a price difference of around 6296 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Polo manages with 5.10 L and is therefore barely noticeable more efficient than the Dacia Sandero with 5.30 L. The difference is about 0.20 L per 100 km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo has a decisively edge – offering 207 HP compared to 110 HP. That’s roughly 97 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Dacia Sandero takes 10 s. That’s about 3.50 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Dacia Sandero tops out at 183 km/h. The difference is around 57 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls noticeable stronger with 320 Nm compared to 200 Nm. That’s about 120 Nm difference.
Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Dacia Sandero is slight lighter – 1089 kg compared to 1143 kg. The difference is around 54 kg.
In terms of boot space, the VW Polo offers minimal more room – 351 L compared to 328 L. That’s a difference of about 23 L.
In maximum load capacity, the VW Polo performs barely noticeable better – up to 1125 L, which is about 17 L more than the Dacia Sandero.
When it comes to payload, VW Polo slight takes the win – 457 kg compared to 436 kg. That’s a difference of about 21 kg.
The VW Polo proves to be dominates this comparison and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Polo is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
The Dacia Sandero is the everyman's hatchback — unpretentious, practical and brilliantly affordable, with sensible space and straightforward charm where it matters most. It won't wow in the premium lane, but for buyers who want honest, dependable transport without showroom theatrics, the Sandero is a clever, no‑nonsense pick that keeps running costs low and grin levels high.
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@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
The Polo is a small car with surprisingly grown-up refinement, delivering comfortable packaging, crisp handling and a build quality that punches above its class. For buyers who want a practical, fuss-free hatch that still feels a little premium, it’s a sensible, slightly cheeky choice you’ll enjoy every day.
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
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@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
10700 - 16700 £
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Price
17000 - 30400 £
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Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 7.1 L
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Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
105 - 140 g/km
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co2
116 - 148 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
32 - 50 L
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Fuel tank capacity
40 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1089 - 1209 kg
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Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
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Trunk capacity
328 L
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Trunk capacity
351 L
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Length
4088 - 4099 mm
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Length
4074 mm
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Width
1848 mm
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Width
1751 mm
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Height
1499 - 1535 mm
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Height
1431 - 1451 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1108 L
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Max trunk capacity
1125 L
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Payload
404 - 436 kg
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Payload
432 - 457 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol, LPG
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
67 - 110 HP
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Power HP
80 - 207 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
10 - 16.7 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
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Max Speed
158 - 183 km/h
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Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
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Torque
95 - 200 Nm
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Torque
93 - 320 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Power kW
49 - 81 kW
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Power kW
59 - 152 kW
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Engine capacity
999 cm3
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Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, E
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
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Brand
Dacia
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Brand
VW
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The Dacia Sandero is available as Front-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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