The VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2000-02) 5DR HATCHBACK 1.4 16V 100 is a small five-door hatchback, offering a useful step up from a basic city car while remaining easy to park and manage. In the UK used-car market, it suits buyers wanting straightforward everyday transport with Volkswagen’s familiar, solidly built feel overall. Mycarcheck.com has recorded 18 look-ups covering 12 different VINs, so this is a modest sample rather than a full market picture. The checks show an average private-sale value of £500, average recorded mileage of 87,000 miles and annual mileage of 4,000 miles; cars averaged six previous keepers in these checks. That makes the Polo a sensible runabout for commuters, first-time drivers or households needing five-door access. The 1.4-litre 16-valve engine gives it more get-up-and-go than entry-level versions, while its compact size helps around town. Against Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa rivals, the Polo’s appeal is its familiar, well-rounded character overall.