Is a manual VW Polo more reliable than the DSG?

Generally yes: the manual is simple, while the seven-speed dry-clutch DSG on many Polos can develop judder and mechatronic faults. A worn clutch on a manual is a cheaper repair.

What goes wrong with the VW Polo 1.2 TSI?

Early 1.2 TSI engines in the 6R Polo, with a timing chain, can suffer chain stretch; listen for a rattle on a cold start. The later version with a timing belt, from around 2014, is less prone to it.

Which VW Polo manual engine is best for town?

The 1.0 MPI three-cylinder is the simplest and cheapest to run in town, though slow on the motorway. The 1.0 TSI adds a turbo and suits drivers who also take the motorway.

Cars

Used Volkswagen Polo with a manual gearbox

Found 636 cars

From €550 to €38,500, half under €8,750 · Typically 2014 with 138,645 km. A manual Polo avoids the seven-speed dry-clutch DSG fitted to many automatic versions. The three-cylinder 1.0 MPI suits town, the 1.0 and 1.2 TSI give more pull, and the TDI diesels suit high annual mileage.