Replacing VW Polo Bluemotion - what petrol hatch would you recommend?

I want to replace my Volkswagen Polo Bluemotion with a petrol, low-emissions, five-door hatchback or city car that has some energy to tackle local hilly roads. I liked the good mileage on the VW but disliked its diesel engine and very low body, which caught on everything. Either new or up to 2 years old please. What can you suggest?

Asked on 14 January 2016 by JBDevon

Answered by Honest John
Small petrol turbos simply romp up hills, but the smaller they are then the greater expense on fuel economy. The best is Peugeot's 1.2 PureTech 130 that has 230Nm torque and with which I averaged 49mpg over 12,000 miles on a Peugeot 308.

The 1.2 PureTech 110 in the Cactus and 2008 is not far off. Ford's 1.0 EcoBoosts are lively but use a fair bit of fuel if you push them. VAG has a new 110PS 1.0 three-cylinder petrol turbo in Polos, Golfs, etc., but I have yet to try that.
Similar questions
I'm 75 and I need a car for both short journeys around London and long journeys in France. What would you recommend: the Honda Jazz hybrid which looks reliable and easy to get into, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid...
On your recommendation we bought a Ford Focus 1.0-litre EcoBoost three years ago. We are planning to replace it. What would you recommend (other than another Fiesta) that we buy?
I want to buy a new small car, but can't decide between the Ford Fiesta 1.2 82PS Zetec or Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI 90PS SE. I need a reliable car with decent comfort as I'll be driving 20,000 miles a year....
Related models
Neatly styled and easy to drive. Room for five. Most come with full size spare. High quality interior. Double folding rear seats give flat load area. Frugal 1.2 TDI BlueMotion.
Some truly brilliant engine choices including impressive 1.2 Puretech petrol, large family-friendly boot, interior looks and feels posh, five star Euro NCAP rating.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer