Which Volkswagen Polo trim holds its value better?
The trim level determines some of the features and stylistic options you get with your vehicle. But in the long run, it can also determine how well your vehicle retains its value. We compare the different trim levels on the Volkswagen Polo to find out which is better.
In 2018, Volkswagen introduced the sixth-generation Polo to the local market. Like the models that precede it, it has enjoyed tremendous success with its stylish design, standard features and reputation for reliability. Volkswagen global very recently pulled the covers off the updated model which stylistically aligns itself more with the Golf 8. This new model should either land before the end of the year or in early 2022.
Whether you are considering the new or a used Volkswagen Polo on AutoTrader, one thing is certain, choosing the correct trim level can bolster your ownership experience and improve your next vehicle's value retention. For this article, we will be focussing on the hatchback models and more specifically on the Trendline, Comfortline, Highline and GTI derivatives without the R-Line package fitted. Prices were accurate at the time of writing but may change without prior notice.
2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0TSI Trendline
New Price: R 235 900
Current Price: R 210 812
Value retained: 89.36 %
This is the entry point to the current Polo range which not only enjoy success in the private ownership market but also in fleets. As you can expect, this derivative comes with the most basic of amenities, however, retains all of the standard safety features such as six airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and electronic brake assist as well as traction and stability control.
Considering its age, the base model Volkswagen Polo has retained a remarkable 89.36 % of its original price in 2018. However, we might see a stronger devaluation as the facelifted model arrives.
2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0TSI Comfortline
New Price: R 264 700
Current Price: R 257 638
Value retained: 97.33 %
This is the lower-midpoint to the current Polo range. This variant sees items such as larger wheels, climate control, multifunction steering wheel and cruise control incorporated amongst other things. This model offers great value for money which is probably why it retains that value better than the base model.
2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0TSI Highline
New Price: R 286 200
Current Price: R 266 582
Value retained: 93.15 %
The Volkswagen Polo in Highline guise is further bolstered with larger 16-inch alloy wheels, a front centre armrest, cruise control with speed limiter functionality and app-connect functionality. The interior also incorporates ambient lighting for a more stylish environment. Once again this derivative proves that the Polo range seems to keep its value, even when approaching the higher tiers of specification.
2018 Volkswagen Polo 2.0TSI GTI
New Price: R375 900
Current Price: R 375 145
Value retained: 99.8 %
What is most certainly very surprising is that the GTI derivative has managed to retain most of its value over the years. Purchasing this variant not only gets you 17-inch wheels, a GTI body kit, leather and suede interior, sporty dark red rear LED lamps, LED high and low beam headlamps and an EDS electronic differential lock, but also a 2.0-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol motor coupled to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
While traditionally, sportier models would lose value quicker than their more normal siblings, the Polo GTI has managed to retain its value better than any of the other models on this list. With such as strong performance, even the introduction of the new Polo GTI might not affect its value too much.