Compare performance (156 HP vs 207 HP), boot space and price (29,000 £ vs 17,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – DS Automobiles DS 3 or VW Polo?
In the world of compact cars, two models stand out: the DS Automobiles DS 3, a chic SUV with a futuristic edge, and the enduring favorite, the VW Polo, a hatchback that has been a staple in urban landscapes. How do these two vehicles stack up against each other in terms of features, technology, and performance? Let's dive in to find out.
The DS 3 boasts a unique SUV design that stands out with its elegant lines and premium finish. It measures 4,118 mm in length, 1,791 mm in width, and 1,534 mm in height, giving it a robust stance. On the other hand, the VW Polo retains its classic hatchback persona with a compact size of 4,074 mm in length, 1,751 mm in width, and 1,451 mm in height. The design of the Polo is timeless, characterized by clean lines and a sleek profile.
The DS 3 offers a versatile range of engine options, including diesel, petrol mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV), and a fully electric variant, making it flexible for various driving preferences. The power output ranges from 130 HP to 156 HP for the traditional engines, and the electric version offers 156 HP with a range of 400 km.
In contrast, the VW Polo is committed to petrol with engines delivering between 80 to 207 HP. The Polo offers a mix of manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options, catering to different driver experiences. While the most robust version of the Polo can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds, the DS 3 manages 9.2 seconds in its quickest variant.
The DS 3 electric model stands out in terms of sustainability, boasting zero CO2 emissions and an energy consumption of 15.5 kWh/100km. For those opting for the internal combustion engine (ICE), the DS 3 offers CO2 efficiency classes ranging from E to A, with consumption as low as 5 L/100km.
VW Polo's commitment to efficiency is evident with its petrol engines having CO2 emissions starting at 118 g/km and fuel consumption as low as 5.2 L/100km. However, it doesn't yet offer a fully electric version, which could be a consideration for eco-conscious buyers.
Both vehicles offer seating for five passengers, with the DS 3 providing a slightly more luxurious interior experience due to its SUV nature. It delivers a spacious feel with a trunk capacity of 350 liters. The Polo, nearly matching in cargo space, offers a trunk capacity of 351 liters, ensuring practicality.
The refinement in the DS 3's cockpit is complemented by advanced technology and high-quality materials, while the Polo impresses with its user-friendly infotainment and ergonomic design.
The DS Automobiles DS 3 appeals to those seeking a compact SUV with a futuristic flair and eco-friendly options, particularly with its electric model. Meanwhile, the VW Polo remains a solid choice for those who favor a traditional hatchback known for its reliability and straightforward efficiency.
Ultimately, the decision between the DS 3 and the VW Polo will depend on personal preferences regarding design aesthetics, powertrain options, and environmental considerations. Both cars, however, continue to represent the pinnacle of compact car engineering in their respective categories.
When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.
VW Polo is considerably cheaper – starting at 17,300 £ , while the DS Automobiles DS 3 costs 29,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 11,790 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the DS Automobiles DS 3 uses 5 L/100km and is barely more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.1 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.
Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.
When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo offers visibly more power – delivering 207 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 51 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.5 s, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 takes 9.1 s. That’s about 2.6 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the VW Polo delivers moderately more torque with 320 Nm compared to 260 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm more.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, VW Polo is barely lighter – 1,143 kg compared to 1,249 kg. The difference is around 106 kg.
Looking at boot space, the VW Polo offers marginally more boot space – 351 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 1 L.
When it comes to payload, the DS Automobiles DS 3 carries marginally more – 466 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 9 kg.
The VW Polo stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The DS 3 is a chic, compact premium hatch that stands out with couture styling and an interior that feels more boutique than bargain-bin. It serves up a poised, city-friendly drive with plenty of French flair — ideal for buyers who want personality as much as practicality and don’t mind turning heads at the lights.
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The Polo is a well-built, comfortable hatchback that blends a refined cabin and composed manners into a compact package. It's easy to live with day to day, offering sensible space, tidy controls and reassuring quality that make it a practical choice for city or longer trips.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
29,000 - 36,100 £
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Price
17,300 - 30,800 £
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Consumption L/100km
5 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 kWh/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
400 km
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
0 - 112 g/km
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co2
116 - 148 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,249 - 1,646 kg
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Curb weight
1,143 - 1,378 kg
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Trunk capacity
350 L
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Trunk capacity
351 L
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
1,791 mm
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Width
1,751 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
362 - 466 kg
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Payload
432 - 457 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
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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
145 - 156 HP
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Power HP
80 - 207 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 9.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
230 - 260 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
107 - 115 kW
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Power kW
59 - 152 kW
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Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
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Engine capacity
999 - 1,984 cm3
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General |
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|---|---|
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C, A
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
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Brand
DS Automobiles
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Brand
VW
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
Česko
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