Volkswagen‘s performance Polo, the GTI, is never going to be the sensible fleet choice.

With CO2 emissions of 139g/km, in a supermini sector that has cars emitting as little as 89g/km, such as the Skoda Fabia, volume isn’t going to be high. But what the GTI lacks in practicality it makes up for in fun. The 1.4-litre 180hp engine does 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and handles brilliantly. VW‘s impressive DSG automatic gearbox is also a pleasure and can be switched to manual or sports mode.

The five-door GTI costs £19,245 and does 47.9mpg compared with the most frugal Polo, a Bluemotion 1.2 TDI, which costs £15,480 and has official figures of 80.7mpg. With cost-per-mile at 51.9 pence for a small car, it will be hard to convince a good fleet manager of the GTI’s worth. But it doesn’t change the fact that this is a thoroughly enjoyable car to drive.

VW Polo GTI 5dr DSG
P11D price £19,345
Model price range £9995-£19,245
Fuel consumption 47.9mpg
CO2 (tax) 139g/km/(17%)
BIK 20/40% per month £55/£109
Service interval variable
Insurance group 30
Warranty 3yrs/60,000mls
Boot space (min/max) 280/592 litres
Engine size/power 1390cc/180hp
Top speed/0-62mph 142mph/6.9secs
On sale 2010
Score 8/10
Verdict A brilliant if
non-fleet friendly car