@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VS

Mercedes A-Class vs VW Polo – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Mercedes A-Class or VW Polo?

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

A-Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group 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 Mercedes A-Class costs 32300 £. That’s a price difference of around 15261 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes A-Class manages with 2.30 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 2.80 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 Mercedes A-Class has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 320 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 113 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes A-Class is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 4.70 s, while the VW Polo takes 6.50 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes A-Class performs barely noticeable better – reaching 250 km/h, while the VW Polo tops out at 240 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes A-Class pulls noticeable stronger with 450 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 130 Nm difference.

A-Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Polo is noticeable lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1440 kg. The difference is around 297 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 Mercedes A-Class performs barely noticeable better – up to 1190 L, which is about 65 L more than the VW Polo.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes A-Class barely noticeable takes the win – 485 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 28 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Mercedes A-Class shows itself to be leaves the rival little chance and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £32,300
A-Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes A-Class

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 320 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.3 - 8.3 L
  • Electric Range : 85 km
details

Mercedes A-Class

The Mercedes A‑Class arrives as a compact charmer that dresses premium materials and a cockpit full of screens in a tidy, city-friendly package, delivering surprising agility and poise. For buyers who want a luxury badge, clever tech and a car that's equally happy in tight streets or on a spirited country run, the A‑Class offers a grown-up feel with a cheeky streak.

details
18C0292_008 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
18C0292_010 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
18C0292_042 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
18C0291_067 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
18C0122_04 @ Mercedes-Benz Group 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

Top Car Comparisons

@ 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 …
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes A-Class
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes GLA
VS
Mercedes A-Class and Mercedes GLA 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.
Mercedes A-Class
VW Polo
A-Class @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption
Price
32300 - 55600 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
2.3 - 8.3 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
85 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
12.90 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
53 - 188 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
35 - 51 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1440 - 1695 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
310 - 350 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4428 - 4447 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1796 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1407 - 1423 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1125 - 1190 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
475 - 485 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Petrol MHEV, Diesel
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 320 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.7 - 9.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
200 - 450 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 235 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1332 - 1991 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, D, E, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
VW

Similar 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 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 …
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes A-Class
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
The Mercedes A-Class and Toyota Corolla compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes A-Class
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes B Class
VS
Mercedes A-Class and Mercedes B Class 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.
@ 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, …
@ Lexus / Toyota Motor Corporation
Lexus LBX
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes A-Class
VS
In the battle between the Lexus LBX and the Mercedes A-Klasse, luxury meets practicality with distinct finesse. The Lexus LBX, renowned for its plush interiors and hybrid efficiency, presents a compelling alternative for those seeking eco-friendly upscale driving. Meanwhile, the Mercedes A-Klasse …
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
Mercedes A-Class
@ Nissan Motor Corporation
Nissan Qashqai
VS
In the battle of sophistication versus practicality, the Mercedes A-Klasse and Nissan Qashqai cater to distinctly different tastes. The Mercedes A-Klasse, with its premium finishes and cutting-edge technology, appeals to those who crave luxury and performance in a compact form. Meanwhile, the …
Is the Mercedes A-Class offered with different drivetrains?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive or All-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.