@ Toyota Motor Corporation
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
VS

Toyota Corolla 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 – Toyota Corolla or VW Polo?

Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Compact Hatchbacks Face Off: Toyota Corolla vs. VW Polo

In the competitive world of compact hatchbacks, two contenders stand out for their blend of efficiency, technology, and driving experience: the Toyota Corolla and the VW Polo. Both vehicles offer unique attributes that cater to different driver preferences. In this article, we delve into their technical aspects and innovations to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Power and Performance

The Toyota Corolla is renowned for its Full Hybrid Engine, available in two power outputs—140 HP and 196 HP, translating to 103 kW and 144 kW, respectively. This setup ensures a smooth ride, aided by its Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive configuration. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h ranges between 9.2 and 7.5 seconds, delivering a balanced driving experience with a top speed of 180 km/h.

In contrast, the VW Polo provides a more varied power lineup, ranging from 80 HP to a thrilling 207 HP, accommodating both daily commuters and speed enthusiasts. Equipped with either a manual gearbox or a dual-clutch automatic transmission, the Polo offers a diverse driving experience. Acceleration varies from a leisurely 15.6 seconds for the entry-level model to just 6.5 seconds for its sportiest variant, with maximum speeds ranging from 171 km/h to an impressive 240 km/h.

Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Efficiency and Consumption

Fuel efficiency is a highlight for both cars but in different capacities. The Corolla boasts hybrid efficiency with a consumption rate between 4.4 and 4.6 L/100km and CO2 emissions at 100 g/km, maintaining its reputation for eco-friendliness.

The Polo's petrol engines offer reasonable efficiency, with consumption figures spanning from 5.2 to 6.5 L/100km, depending on the model chosen. CO2 emissions vary, reflecting its petrol nature with efficiency classes of D and E.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

In terms of design, both hatchbacks embrace a modern aesthetic. The Toyota Corolla measures 4370 mm in length, 1790 mm in width, and 1435 mm in height, providing spacious room for passengers and cargo. The trunk capacity ranges between 313 L and 361 L, sufficient for everyday needs.

The VW Polo, slightly more compact, spans 4074 mm in length, 1751 mm in width, and either 1451 mm or 1431 mm in height. With a trunk capacity of 351 L, it's practical for urban adventures and weekend getaways alike.

Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Innovation and Features

Both the Corolla and Polo come equipped with cutting-edge technology typical of today's auto landscape. The Corolla, leveraging Toyota's hybrid technology, appeals to eco-conscious drivers desiring lower emissions without simplifying power delivery.

The Polo, on the other hand, showcases Volkswagen's prowess in providing a small yet nimble vehicle with multiple engine configurations, offering customization rooted in performance or economy, based on preference.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Conclusion: Which One Is for You?

Ultimately, choosing between the Toyota Corolla and VW Polo depends on your driving needs. The Corolla impresses with its hybrid efficiency, while the Polo shines with performance diversity. Both offer excellent build quality and advanced features, ensuring a satisfying driving experience regardless of choice. Whether you prioritize eco-friendliness or performance-centered options, both models promise to deliver on multiple fronts. Consider your priorities and embark on a test drive to discover which of these compact hatchbacks aligns with your lifestyle.

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

Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation

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 Toyota Corolla costs 28600 £. That’s a price difference of around 11576 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Toyota Corolla manages with 4.40 L and is therefore a bit more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 0.70 L per 100 km.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Engine and Performance:

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 has a somewhat edge – offering 207 HP compared to 178 HP. That’s roughly 29 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the VW Polo is somewhat quicker – completing the sprint in 6.50 s, while the Toyota Corolla takes 7.50 s. That’s about 1 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs noticeable better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Toyota Corolla tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 60 km/h.

Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Polo is clearly perceptible lighter – 1143 kg compared to 1420 kg. The difference is around 277 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Toyota Corolla offers barely noticeable more room – 361 L compared to 351 L. That’s a difference of about 10 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Polo performs slight better – up to 1125 L, which is about 73 L more than the Toyota Corolla.

When it comes to payload, VW Polo minimal takes the win – 457 kg compared to 450 kg. That’s a difference of about 7 kg.

Who wins the race?

The VW Polo proves to be wins the duel decisively 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
details

Toyota Corolla

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota Corolla remains the steady, no-nonsense compact that puts reliability and low running costs at the top of your shopping list, with a comfortable, well-built interior that won't embarrass you at the supermarket. It won't set your pulse racing, but it's an honest, easy-to-live-with car that makes smart sense for buyers who want dependability and sensible value with a dash of modern tech.

details
61391-229006340-corolla-grs-hb-bitone-1k6-18inchgrswheel-front-comp-rgb-v7-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
61392-229006340-corolla-grs-hb-bitone-1k6-18inchgrswheel-rear-comp-rgb-v2-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
76880-2022-corolla-gr-sport-wp-007-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
61390-20190207-toyota-1778-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
61393-20190207-toyota-1799-v2-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation

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

@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
VS
The Toyota Corolla and the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports both offer a reliable driving experience, but cater to different needs. While the Corolla sedan excels with its compact design and efficient performance suited for urban commuting, the Corolla Touring Sports takes practicality to another …
@ Lexus / Toyota Motor Corporation
Lexus LBX
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
The Lexus LBX slinks into the compact crossover segment with plush materials, extra tech and a price tag that reminds you it’s a Lexus, while the Toyota Corolla sticks to its guns as the sensible, wallet‑friendly compact that does everything you need — reliably and efficiently. If you want …
Toyota Corolla
VW Polo
Corolla @ Toyota Motor Corporation
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption
Price
28600 - 34900 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
4.40 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
100 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
43 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
1420 - 1460 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
313 - 361 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
4370 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1790 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1435 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
1004 - 1052 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
400 - 450 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Full Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 178 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.5 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
-
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
103 - 131 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1798 - 1987 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Toyota
Brand
VW

Similar Comparisons

@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota C-HR
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
The Toyota C-HR and the Toyota Corolla are two compelling options for drivers seeking reliability and style. While the C-HR boasts a bold, crossover design with a higher driving position and sporty handling, the Corolla remains a benchmark in compact sedans, offering practicality and exceptional …
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Yaris Cross
VS
The Toyota Corolla is the grown-up, no-nonsense choice — smooth, roomy and composed on the motorway with efficient hybrid power that makes it a supremely easy daily cruiser. The Toyota Yaris Cross is the cheeky city SUV: higher ride and tall seats for better visibility, nimble in traffic and great …
@ 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 …
@ Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda Jazz
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
In the competitive world of compact cars, the Honda Jazz and the Toyota Corolla offer distinct charm and practicality. The Honda Jazz impresses with its versatile interior space, making it an ideal city car for those who prioritize flexibility and comfort in a compact package. In contrast, the …
@ Kia Corporation
Kia Niro
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
Toyota Corolla
VS
In the competitive segment of hybrid vehicles, the Kia Niro and Toyota Corolla stand out with their unique strengths. The Niro offers a more spacious interior and a crossover-like feel, making it an ideal choice for families and those needing extra cargo space. In contrast, the Corolla impresses …
@ 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 …
Is the Toyota Corolla offered with different drivetrains?

The Toyota Corolla is available as 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.