@ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VS

DS Automobiles DS 3 vs VW Polo – Which car suits you better?

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – DS Automobiles DS 3 or VW Polo?

DS Automobiles DS 3

VW Polo

DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

Compact Clash: DS 3 vs 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.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Exterior

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.

DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

Engine Variants and Performance

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.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Efficiency and Sustainability

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.

DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

Interior and Comfort

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.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion: Choosing Between Elegance and Tradition

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.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

VW Polo has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17000 £, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 costs 28400 £. That’s a price difference of around 11447 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: DS Automobiles DS 3 manages with 5 L and is therefore minimal more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

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 has a noticeable edge – offering 207 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 51 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 takes 9.10 s. That’s about 2.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs a bit better – reaching 240 km/h, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 tops out at 196 km/h. The difference is around 44 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls a bit stronger with 320 Nm compared to 260 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm difference.

DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

Space and Everyday Use:

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, VW Polo is minimal lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1249 kg. The difference is around 106 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Polo offers minimal more room – 351 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 1 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Polo performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1125 L, which is about 75 L more than the DS Automobiles DS 3.

When it comes to payload, DS Automobiles DS 3 minimal takes the win – 466 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 9 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Polo proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
VW Polo is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

DS Automobiles DS 3
VW Polo

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £17,000
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

VW Polo

  • Engine Type : Petrol
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 80 - 207 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.1 - 6.5 L
details

DS Automobiles DS 3

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.

details
ds_3_06-63bf0895e10ad @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
ds_3_08-63bf0871e8e6c @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
ds_3_02-63bf08d01c133 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
ds_3_03-63bf08badf244 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
ds_3_07-63bf088092704 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media

VW Polo

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.

details
DB2021AU00726_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00728_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00732_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00735_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00736_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
DB2021AU00741_medium @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Reviews DS Automobiles DS 3

Reviews VW Polo

Top Car Comparisons

@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Yaris
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
In the compact car showdown, the Toyota Yaris and the VW Polo both make compelling cases, each boasting its own unique strengths. The Yaris shines with its impressive fuel efficiency and dependable reliability, making it a practical choice for everyday driving. On the other hand, the Polo …
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Taigo
VS
When comparing the VW Polo to the VW Taigo, drivers will appreciate the Polo's compact size and agility, making it a perfect fit for urban environments. Conversely, the Taigo stands out with its sleek coupe-inspired SUV design, offering a slightly elevated driving position and increased cargo space …
DS Automobiles DS 3
VW Polo
DS 3 @ DS Automobiles / Stellantis Media
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption
Price
28400 - 40500 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
5 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
15.50 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
400 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
51 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 112 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
44 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1249 - 1646 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
350 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4118 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1791 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1534 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1050 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
362 - 466 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
145 - 156 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
150 - 196 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
230 - 260 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
107 - 115 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1199 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
DS Automobiles
Brand
VW

Similar Comparisons

@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW T-Cross
VS
In a head-to-head comparison, the VW Polo and the VW T-Cross cater to different driving needs while maintaining Volkswagen's signature quality. The Polo, a beloved supermini, offers a sleek and nimble ride ideal for urban environments, boasting efficiency and precision handling. On the other hand, …
@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Ford Puma
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
In the competitive segment of compact crossovers, the Ford Puma stands out with its sporty design and engaging driving dynamics, appealing to those who prioritize excitement behind the wheel. On the other hand, the VW Polo offers a more traditional hatchback experience, characterized by its solid …
@ Renault Group Media
Renault Clio
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
In the competitive supermini segment, the Renault Clio and VW Polo stand out for their blend of style, performance, and practicality. The Clio boasts a more dynamic design and an engaging driving experience, while the Polo is celebrated for its refined build quality and advanced technology …
@ Škoda Auto a.s. / Škoda Storyboard
Skoda Kamiq
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
In the competitive landscape of compact SUVs and hatchbacks, the Skoda Kamiq and the VW Polo offer distinct advantages for urban drivers. The Kamiq impresses with its spacious interior and high-tech features, making it a perfect choice for those who prioritize comfort and practicality. Meanwhile, …
@ Opel / Stellantis Media
Opel Corsa
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
Unsure whether the Opel Corsa or the VW Polo is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
@ Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda Jazz
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
In a head-to-head comparison, the Honda Jazz impresses with its spacious interior and versatile Magic Seats, making it an ideal choice for those prioritizing practicality and flexibility. On the other hand, the VW Polo stands out with its refined cabin and a more premium feel, coupled with agile …
@ Opel / Stellantis Media
Opel Mokka
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
Opel Mokka and VW Polo go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
@ Renault Group Media
Renault R5
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VW Polo
VS
Unsure whether the Renault R5 or the VW Polo is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
What drive types are available for the DS Automobiles DS 3?

The DS Automobiles DS 3 is offered with 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.