@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Ford Puma vs VW Polo – Which car suits you better?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Ford Puma or VW Polo fits your lifestyle better.

Puma @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

In the compact car segment, the Ford Puma and VW Polo vie for supremacy, each bringing a unique blend of technology, performance, and style to the road. The choice between them can be daunting, but understanding their technical aspects and innovations may help you make an informed decision.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

The Ford Puma is crafted as a small SUV, measuring 4186 mm in length and 1805 mm in width, which gives it a commanding presence on the road. With a height of 1550 mm, it offers a higher driving position compared to the Polo. In contrast, the VW Polo, a hatchback, measures 4074 mm in length and is slightly narrower at 1751 mm and shorter in height, ranging from 1451 mm to 1431 mm. The design of both vehicles appeals to a modern aesthetic, with the Puma’s sportier SUV-like vibe contrasting with the sleek hatchback design of the Polo.

Puma @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Ford Puma offers a selection of petrol engines, with power output ranging from 125 HP to a robust 160 HP, and an impressive torque of up to 200 Nm. The Puma’s acceleration from 0-100 km/h is notable, achieving times as low as 7.4 seconds, thanks to its lightweight construction (curb weight of around 1316 kg) and efficient powertrain. The VW Polo, however, provides a broader range of engine options, with power specifications that include variants offering between 80 HP and an impressive 207 HP. Polo’s turbocharged engines ensure a satisfying driving experience, achieving 0-100 km/h in as little as 6.5 seconds for the most powerful version.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Puma registers consumption figures of 5.4 to 6.0 L/100km, depending on the engine variant. The VW Polo, on the other hand, boasts slightly better efficiency, achieving as low as 5.2 L/100km in some configurations. This makes the Polo a more economical choice for daily commutes, while the Puma delivers on performance without sacrificing too much fuel economy.

Puma @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Innovative Features

Both cars are furnished with advanced technology and safety features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. The Ford Puma is equipped with Ford’s latest connectivity and infotainment systems, including a user-friendly touchscreen interface, smartphone integration, and a host of driver-assistance technologies. Its innovative storage solutions, such as the mega-box feature in the trunk, add practicality to its sporty design.

Meanwhile, the VW Polo is renowned for its high-quality interior and cutting-edge technology. It comes fitted with a range of infotainment options, including a digital cockpit and an intuitive touchscreen display. The Polo also excels in safety features, offering options like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and various other driver aids that provide peace of mind on the road.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Space and Comfort

In terms of space, the Ford Puma excels with a trunk capacity of up to 456 L, making it more versatile for families or those needing extra space for luggage. The VW Polo, while offering a respectable trunk capacity of 351 L, still provides ample room for five passengers but may fall short for those with larger cargo needs. Both vehicles are designed for comfort, with high-quality materials and ergonomic seating to enhance the overall driving experience.

Puma @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Conclusion

Choosing between the Ford Puma and VW Polo ultimately comes down to personal preference and needs. If you desire something sportier with an SUV feel, packed with innovative features and impressive performance, the Ford Puma is likely the better choice. Conversely, if fuel efficiency and cutting-edge technology in a compact hatchback fit your lifestyle better, then the VW Polo stands out as an excellent contender. Regardless of your choice, both vehicles offer unparalleled value and a driving experience that is hard to beat in their respective segments.

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

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

VW Polo has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17000 £, while the Ford Puma costs 24800 £. That’s a price difference of around 7770 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: VW Polo manages with 5.10 L and is therefore barely noticeable more efficient than the Ford Puma with 5.40 L. The difference is about 0.30 L per 100 km.

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 somewhat edge – offering 207 HP compared to 168 HP. That’s roughly 39 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Ford Puma takes 7.40 s. That’s about 0.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs slightly better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Ford Puma tops out at 210 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: VW Polo pulls hardly perceptible stronger with 320 Nm compared to 290 Nm. That’s about 30 Nm difference.

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 a bit lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1316 kg. The difference is around 173 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Ford Puma offers evident more room – 523 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 172 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Ford Puma performs a bit better – up to 1283 L, which is about 158 L more than the VW Polo.

When it comes to payload, Ford Puma minimal takes the win – 469 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 12 kg.

Who wins the race?

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

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

Ford Puma

5 (1)
rate

The Ford Puma is a cheeky compact crossover that blends sporty styling with city-friendly practicality, giving drivers a surprisingly fun and composed ride. With clever storage tricks and a lively personality, it’s a smart pick for buyers who want enjoyment without fuss.

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VW Polo

The VW Polo remains a popular choice in the compact car segment, known for its sleek design and sophisticated styling. Inside, it offers a surprisingly spacious cabin with high-quality materials and intuitive technology features, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. Its agile handling and responsive performance make it an excellent option for both city commuting and longer journeys.

details
Ford Puma
VW Polo
Puma @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
24800 - 36300 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
5.4 - 5.9 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
13.1 - 13.9 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
361 - 376 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
43 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 135 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 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
1316 - 1563 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
456 - 523 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4186 - 4226 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1805 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1550 - 1555 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1216 - 1283 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
367 - 469 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
125 - 168 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.4 - 9.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
160 - 210 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
170 - 290 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
92 - 124 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
999 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A, D
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Ford
Brand
VW
Is the Ford Puma offered with different drivetrains?

The Ford Puma 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.