Owner Review: No DSG, No problem? My 2017 Polo Hatchback 1.6MPI

Basic information about my car:

2017 Volkwagen Polo Hatchback 1.6MPI RM56,000

Reasons why I bought this car:

1. Need for daily commute to work 2. Cheapest option (at that time) 3. Used (test drive unit)

Car selection process

● I had a budget of: RM70,000

● Models that I have considered include: Used Honda Jazz, Used Mazda 2, New Proton Iriz

● Reasons why I chose this car:

1. Good handling and comfortable 2. The solid feel 3. Comes with rear air-cond

User experience

● I have already done: 84,000 km.

● Since the purchase, my thoughts about the car are:

Overall experience has been postive despite on what it lacks.

The car have served me well until today. Many were doubt about it at first and keep on asking why I bought the car in the first place (even my family members) and not go for the Japanese counterpart. This happened many times on my first year with the car.

It had been explained many times that the model is not from the problematic DSG geabox as instead it is from 6AT Aisin gearbox. However, its pulling power can't be compared to the DSG but adequate enough for daily usage. Surprisingly one of my friend end up bought one for himself.

My journey with the car has been great especially on long distance drives. I've never been tired while driving, it is comfortable and quiet enough even at high speed. The noticable noise would be only the engine noise and road noise depending on road surface at high speed.

The exterior looks of the car is somehow understated in my opinion. The interior on the other hand, the packages are ergonomically placed. Buttons are easy to reach and feels solid. Seats are comfy, centre armrest is supportive on long distance trips, and additional rear air-cond for rear passanger.

Some modifications has been done too. A retrofitted LED projector headlights with DRLs as stock comes with halogen reflectors. This is to have a better lighting because my commute starts early morning. Upgraded to lightweight 17inch rims and rear spoiler (not sure if it is function) for cosmetic purpose.

Unfortunately, maintenance cost is a bit higher if you compare it to its rivals, but at least services can be done once a year or every 15,000km.

Pros of my car:

1. Solid handling

2. Comfortable

3. Rear air-cond

Cons of my car:

1. Cost bit more to maintain

2. Safely wise is lacking (not even vsc)

3. Non turbo

Ratings: 

Total Score: 3

Performance: 3

Quality & Features: 3

Space: 3

Ride Comfort: 4

Fuel Economy: 3

Price & Cost: 4

Summary of my story in one paragraph:

VW Polo 1.6 "the reliable one", but at some costs. Extra content About the Maintenance cost

Maintenance cycle is once a year or 15000km whichever one comes first Major services incur every 2 years

Maintenance items include: Engine oil, oil filter, drain plug (each service) Typically cost around 300 - 500 Brake fluid, ATF oil, ATF washer (every 2 years) Around 700 - 1000

Replaced parts: Sets of suspension shock absorbers (2300) Steering rack (1500)

Wear and tear: Brake pads (250) Brake discs (350) Wiper blades (50) 4 sets of tires (1500)

All said items above are repaired

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