New Volkswagen Polo v Peugeot 208 GT-Line
“Cool”, “eye-catching” and “snazzy” are just a few words than can be used to describe both Volkswagen’s new Polo and the updated Peugeot 208 GT-Line. These hatchbacks play in a competitive market, each manufacturer has their own version of what they perceive that market wants. For those looking in this segment, there needs to be a balance between fun factor, functionality, technology, practically and appearance – a tough ask in my opinion. That being said, a lot of those attributes are on offer in many cars operating in that segment. So, building a hatchback that meets those requirements is easy, but selling it in South Africa is a different story. In a country where the Volkswagen Polo is the bread and butter, how does the “Frenchie” stack up? Let’s get down and dirty.
Looks
This reminds me of the common topic of argument among boys and men. Jennifer Anniston or Angela Jolie? They are both beautiful women in different ways. The same rings true with the new Polo and Peugeot 208. The Polo, on the one hand features an edgy design which gives off a “young professional” look. The 208 GT Line on the other hand is curvier and quirkier, creating a fun overall appearance.
Interior and Technology
While both vehicles boast good quality interiors, the experience is totally different. The new Polo features a typically clean Volkswagen look and the 8” Composition Media display really adds a nice premium touch. It’s also built into the dashboard resulting in a classy, clean look. Opting for the optional Active Info Display further adds to the premium feel of the new Polo cabin, the 11” display replaces conventional dashboard dials and provides a completely different interface for the driver. This option brings features not normally associated with a hatchback in this segment.
Jumping in to the 208 GT Line results in an unusual but sportier environment. The dashboard is high, the steering wheel is small and located particularly low. After a short while pulling leavers and twisting nobs, I found a low seated driving position that I enjoyed. The sporty appeal, supportive seats and small diameter steering wheel offer something different from the Polo and once you’ve settled in, it becomes rather enjoyable.
Both cars offer Apple CarPlay, (Android auto is compatible but still not available in ZA) but in terms of usability and interface responsiveness, the VW Polo comes out on top.
Driving
The 208 produces a nippy 81Kws of power and has a nimble chassis. The front end of this vehicle stood out to me as it was very positive and provides plenty of grip. Combine this with the sporty driving position and driving 208 GT Line is a fun affair. If you are one who enjoys a good twisty road, the 208 might be your weapon of choice. The manual variant in the Peugeot is what we preferred, as the automatic had a mind of its own. On the other hand the DSG gearbox in the Polo is class leading and definitely the one to get, especially if traffic is a reality of your life.
When it comes to the Polo, it produces 85Kw and is slightly calmer in its approach. It’s the more grown up car out of the two and doesn’t have as much of a sporty appeal, but rather a gentleman-like persona (The optional R-Line package may spice things up). I say this a lot, but the Polo has a young professional aura about it, which is excellent for the “up and coming”.
What you choose depends on the type of person you are. Both the Volkswagen Polo and the Peugeot 208 GT Line are good cars, they both look great, drive well and offer unique packages as well as a host of tech. A major factor for consideration is what sells more. The simple rule of thumb is, “if it sells more, it will trade in better” – supply and demand. Looking at Polo sales compared to the Peugeot in that aspect makes it the obvious choice for when you want to sell it. If you’re buying with your heart however, you may be swayed by the appeal of the Peugeot, it is a great looking car after all. That being said, the Polo is rather handsome as well. Choose wisely.
Peugeot 208 Pricing in South Africa
208 ACTIVE 1.2 PureTech BVM 60kW MT R 224 900
208 ALLURE 1.2 PureTech BVM 60kW MT R 239 900
208 GT-LINE 1.2 PureTech BVM 81kW Turbo MT R 259 900
Pricing includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty and 3 year/ 45 000km service plan.
Ends
Volkswagen Polo Pricing in South Africa
1.0 TSI 70kW Trendline R 235 900
1.0 TSI 70kW Comfortline R 264 700
1.0 TSI 70kW Comfortline DSG R 280 700
1.0 TSI 85kW Highline R 286 200
1.0 TSI 85kW Highline DSG R 302 200
The new Volkswagen Polo models come standard with a 3 year/45 000km Service Plan, 3 year/120 000km warranty and a 12 year anti-corrosion warranty. Service Interval is 15 000km.