Compare performance (118 HP vs 207 HP), boot space and price (17,100 £ vs 17,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Fiat 500 or VW Polo?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
In the realm of compact cars, two iconic names come to mind: the Fiat 500 and the VW Polo. While both are hatchbacks adored for their urban-friendly size and style, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different drivers’ needs. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of these compact cars as we compare their technical aspects and innovations.
The Fiat 500, an emblematic city car, now boasts an electric variant. Its electric motor provides 118 HP, delivering instant torque of 220 Nm, translating into a sprightly 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 9 seconds. The two battery options offer an electric range from 190 km to 321 km, making it ideal for eco-conscious urbanites.
On the other hand, the VW Polo remains true to its petrol roots, offering a variety of engine options. This includes models powered by 3 or 4-cylinder engines, with power ranging from 80 to a robust 207 HP for the GTI variant. The VW Polo can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as quick as 6.5 seconds, courtesy of its 2.0-liter engine offering 320 Nm of torque.
The Fiat 500 comes with a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of electric vehicles, which provides a seamless driving experience, particularly suited for city driving. It features a front-wheel-drive setup.
The VW Polo offers versatility with both manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. It maintains the traditional front-wheel-drive layout, ensuring a stable and predictable driving experience.
The Fiat 500 scores high on eco-friendliness with CO2 emissions rated at 0 g/km, complemented by a consumption rate between 13 kWh and 14.7 kWh per 100 km, depending on the model. It holds an impressive CO2 efficiency class of A.
Conversely, the VW Polo emits between 118 g/km to 149 g/km of CO2, depending on the engine variant, and exhibits a fuel consumption range from 5.2 to 6.5 L/100 km. Though not as eco-friendly as the Fiat 500, these numbers offer a reasonable compromise for a petrol vehicle.
The Fiat 500, considering its compact dimensions of 3632 mm in length and 1683 mm in width, provides practical city navigation. While it offers seating for four, its trunk space is limited to 185 liters, emphasizing its role as a city commuter rather than a family vehicle.
The VW Polo is slightly larger at 4074 mm in length and 1751 mm in width, accommodating five passengers comfortably. It also provides a generous trunk space of 351 liters, making it suitable for small families or those needing extra cargo capacity.
Choosing between the Fiat 500 and VW Polo ultimately boils down to your specific needs. If you’re seeking an environmentally friendly city car with a distinct style and electric efficiency, the Fiat 500 is your go-to. However, if you prefer versatility, a variety of petrol engine options, and extra space for passengers and cargo, the VW Polo remains a steadfast choice.
Both vehicles embody the spirit of urban driving in their unique ways, whether you’re drawn to the electric innovation of the Fiat 500 or the traditional charm and practicality of the VW Polo. Whichever you choose, both promise to deliver engaging and dependable experiences on the road.
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.
Fiat 500 is marginally cheaper – starting at 17,100 £ , while the VW Polo costs 17,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 124 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the VW Polo uses 5.1 L/100km and is only slightly more efficient than the Fiat 500 with 5.2 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the VW Polo offers considerably more power – delivering 207 HP compared to 118 HP. That’s roughly 89 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is markedly quicker – completing the sprint in 6.5 s, while the Fiat 500 takes 9 s. That’s about 2.5 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the VW Polo delivers visibly more torque with 320 Nm compared to 220 Nm. That’s about 100 Nm more.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Seats: VW Polo offers more seats – 5 vs 4.
In terms of curb weight, Fiat 500 is barely lighter – 1,130 kg compared to 1,143 kg. The difference is around 13 kg.
Looking at boot space, the VW Polo offers clearly more boot space – 351 L compared to 185 L. That’s a difference of about 166 L.
When it comes to payload, the VW Polo carries markedly more – 457 kg compared to 325 kg. That’s a difference of about 132 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 Fiat 500 is a cheeky, retro‑styled city car that turns heads with its iconic looks and playful personality. Perfect for weaving through tight streets and easing into tiny parking spots, it’s aimed at buyers who want style and character more than grand touring prowess.
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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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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
17,100 - 27,400 £
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Price
17,300 - 30,800 £
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Consumption L/100km
5.2 - 5.3 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
13 - 14.7 kWh/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
190 - 331 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 - 121 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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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
4
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Seats
5
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Doors
3
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1,130 - 1,475 kg
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Curb weight
1,143 - 1,378 kg
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Trunk capacity
183 - 185 L
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Trunk capacity
351 L
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Length
3,631 mm
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Length
-
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Width
1,683 - 1,684 mm
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Width
1,751 mm
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Height
1,532 mm
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
440 L
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
250 - 325 kg
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Payload
432 - 457 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
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Engine Type
Petrol
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Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual 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
65 - 118 HP
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Power HP
80 - 207 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
9 - 16.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
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Max Speed
155 km/h
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
92 - 220 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
48 - 87 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 - 1,984 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
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Brand
Fiat
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Brand
VW
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España