2022 Volkswagen Polo Life TSI 1.0L Petrol · SL72 AEN

The 1.0-litre TSI petrol engine in the Polo Life typically returns around 50-55 mpg in real-world driving, making it one of the more economical superminis in its class. As a Euro 6 AP compliant vehicle registered after April 2017, it falls into a low VED band, costing around £190 per year in road tax for the standard rate. Insurance should sit in groups 5-8 depending on the exact variant, keeping premiums manageable for most drivers.

Annual running costs including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine maintenance are likely to fall in the £1,000-£1,400 range for a typical driver covering 8,000-10,000 miles per year. The Polo TSI benefits from relatively affordable parts and widespread Volkswagen specialist coverage, though main dealer servicing will be pricier than independent garages. Budget for tyre replacements every 20,000-30,000 miles and brake discs/pads as wear dictates.

Despite the clean MOT pass, a physical inspection remains essential. Examine the bodywork for parking dents and scratches, particularly around the bumpers and door edges — common issues for urban-driven Polos. Check all tyres for even wear, which can indicate alignment or suspension issues. The interior should show minimal wear given the low mileage; excessive wear on the driver's seat bolster or steering wheel could suggest higher mileage than recorded.

Under the bonnet, inspect for oil leaks around the cam chain area and check the coolant level for any signs of contamination. The TSI engine is known for occasional water pump issues on earlier models, so verify there are no unusual noises from the front of the engine. Test all electrical systems including climate control, infotainment, and power windows. A pre-purchase inspection by a Volkswagen specialist or independent engineer is strongly recommended given the limited MOT history available — this will give you a complete picture beyond what a single MOT test can reveal.