2021 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · SF21 ABH

The 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine in this Polo typically returns 47-52 mpg in real-world driving, making it one of the more economical superminis on offer. Road tax is likely to be around £190-£200 per year given its Euro 6 AP status and CO2 output of approximately 110-120 g/km, depending on the exact trim. Insurance should fall into group 8-10, making it relatively affordable for new drivers and younger buyers, with annual premiums typically ranging from £400-£700 depending on the driver's profile.

Routine maintenance is generally inexpensive, with standard services costing £150-£250 at an independent garage. The annual MOT is a known cost, and tyres for a Polo typically run £60-£100 per corner depending on specification. Combining fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance, expect annual running costs of approximately £1,400-£1,800 for a moderate driver covering around 7,000 miles per year.

Given the January 2025 MOT failure, pay particular attention to the front tyre shoulders and edges, as both sides were recorded as worn on edge — this can indicate misalignment, suspension wear, or aggressive driving habits. Have the wheel alignment checked during your inspection, and inspect the front suspension components including wishbones, drop links, and anti-roll bar bushes for any play or damage. Although not flagged on the MOT, the model's aggregate data shows ball joint failure as a top-three MOT failure reason across all Polos, so manually check for play in the front suspension joints.

Inspect the windscreen washer system thoroughly, testing both front and rear jets for proper operation and adequate spray pattern. Check the washer fluid reservoir for cracks and confirm the pump is functioning correctly. Beyond the MOT data, inspect the TSI engine for any signs of oil consumption by checking the dipstick and the underside of the engine for leaks. The coolant expansion tank should be inspected for signs of stress whitening or leaks, as early TSI units can suffer from thermostat and water pump issues. Finally, verify the timing chain condition by listening for any rattle on a cold start, as this is a documented concern on higher-mileage 1.0 TSI engines.