@ Toyota Motor Corporation
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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Toyota Yaris vs VW Polo – Performance, range & efficiency compared

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

Yaris @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Battle of the Hatchbacks: Toyota Yaris vs VW Polo

The compact car segment has long been a competitive battlefield, and the latest models from Toyota and Volkswagen are no exception. The Toyota Yaris and VW Polo are two of the most popular choices, and both have come a long way in terms of innovation, design, and technical prowess. Let's dive into a detailed comparison between the two to see how they stack up against each other.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Performance and Engine Options

The Toyota Yaris is available in both full hybrid and petrol engine configurations, offering drivers a choice between eco-efficiency and traditional power. The hybrid version delivers 116 HP with impressive fuel consumption of just 3.8 L/100km, while the petrol variants go up to 130 HP and even a sporty 280 HP for those seeking a thrill. With acceleration from 0-100 km/h in as quick as 5.5 seconds for the higher-end models, the Yaris doesn't compromise on performance.

On the other hand, the VW Polo sticks to petrol engines, offering a range of power outputs from 80 HP to a peppy 207 HP. The Polo’s most efficient model consumes 5.1 L/100km, making it slightly less fuel-efficient than the Yaris hybrid. Acceleration varies from a modest 15.6 seconds to a swift 6.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h, showing that it caters to a wide audience.

Yaris @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Transmission and Drive

Toyota’s Yaris provides both automatic and manual transmissions, catering to different driving preferences. The front-wheel-drive setup is standard, although an all-wheel-drive option enhances its appeal, especially for those who face tougher driving conditions.

VW Polo offers a choice between a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic transmission, renowned for its smooth and rapid gear changes. Like the Yaris, it also features front-wheel drive, which is typical for this vehicle class.

Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

In terms of dimensions, the Yaris is slightly shorter at 3940 mm compared to the Polo’s 4074 mm, which may appeal to city drivers looking for ease of maneuverability and parking. The Yaris is also marginally wider, promising a more planted stance on the road. Height-wise, both vehicles are quite similar, with the Polo slightly lower in some configurations, which could enhance aerodynamic efficiency.

Both vehicles offer five doors and a comfortable seating capacity for five occupants, making them practical choices for families or shared use. The VW Polo, however, boasts a slightly larger trunk capacity of 351 L versus the Yaris's 286 L, making it more suitable for those with frequent cargo-carrying needs.

Innovation and Features

The Toyota Yaris stands out with its hybrid technology, which is not only a boost to its fuel efficiency but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint, featuring CO2 efficiency classes ranging from B to G. Innovative safety features and driver aids are expected, although specific details depend on the trim level chosen.

VW Polo focuses on delivering technological sophistication through its infotainment systems and driver assistance technologies. The Polo's lineup includes a variety of trims that allow for personal customization concerning tech features, comfort, and luxury.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Toyota Yaris and VW Polo ultimately depends on what's most important to the driver. The Yaris excels in fuel economy and environmental consideration, thanks to its hybrid option, making it a great choice for eco-conscious urban drivers. The Polo, however, provides a touch more interior space and a wider range of traditional powertrains, appealing to those who prioritize practicality and technological extras.

Both models have their unique strengths and offer exceptional value in the ever-evolving world of compact hatchbacks. Whatever your choice may be, both Toyota and Volkswagen have ensured that you won’t be disappointed.

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

Costs and Efficiency:

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.

VW Polo has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 17000 £, while the Toyota Yaris costs 21900 £. That’s a price difference of around 4856 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Toyota Yaris manages with 3.80 L and is therefore clearly perceptible more efficient than the VW Polo with 5.10 L. The difference is about 1.30 L per 100 km.

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 Toyota Yaris has a evident edge – offering 280 HP compared to 207 HP. That’s roughly 73 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Toyota Yaris is to a small extent quicker – completing the sprint in 5.50 s, while the VW Polo takes 6.50 s. That’s about 1 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the VW Polo performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 240 km/h, while the Toyota Yaris tops out at 230 km/h. The difference is around 10 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Toyota Yaris pulls to a small extent stronger with 390 Nm compared to 320 Nm. That’s about 70 Nm difference.

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, Toyota Yaris is barely noticeable lighter – 1090 kg compared to 1143 kg. The difference is around 53 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Polo offers somewhat more room – 351 L compared to 286 L. That’s a difference of about 65 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Polo performs slightly better – up to 1125 L, which is about 190 L more than the Toyota Yaris.

When it comes to payload, Toyota Yaris somewhat takes the win – 525 kg compared to 457 kg. That’s a difference of about 68 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Toyota Yaris shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects 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 £21,900
Yaris @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Toyota Yaris

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 116 - 280 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 3.8 - 9.5 L

Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Yaris is a sprightly city hatch that packs clever packaging, surprising comfort and fuel-sipping manners into a neat, easy-to-park package. It rewards sensible buyers with low running costs, friendly ergonomics and a forgiving drive, delivered with Japanese reliability and just enough personality to make errands feel a little less ordinary.

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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.

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Toyota Yaris
VW Polo
Yaris @ Toyota Motor Corporation
Polo @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
21900 - 46700 £
Price
17000 - 30400 £
Consumption L/100km
3.8 - 9.5 L
Consumption L/100km
5.1 - 6.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
87 - 215 g/km
co2
116 - 148 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
36 - 50 L
Fuel tank capacity
40 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
Hatchback
Seats
4 - 5
Seats
5
Doors
3 - 5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1090 - 1356 kg
Curb weight
1143 - 1378 kg
Trunk capacity
141 - 286 L
Trunk capacity
351 L
Length
3940 - 3995 mm
Length
4074 mm
Width
1745 - 1805 mm
Width
1751 mm
Height
1455 - 1500 mm
Height
1431 - 1451 mm
Max trunk capacity
935 L
Max trunk capacity
1125 L
Payload
289 - 525 kg
Payload
432 - 457 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
CVT, Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 280 HP
Power HP
80 - 207 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.5 - 9.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.5 - 15.6 s
Max Speed
175 - 230 km/h
Max Speed
171 - 240 km/h
Torque
390 Nm
Torque
93 - 320 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
85 - 206 kW
Power kW
59 - 152 kW
Engine capacity
1490 - 1618 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, G
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Toyota
Brand
VW
Is the Toyota Yaris offered with different drivetrains?

The Toyota Yaris is offered with 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.