2017 Ford Figo Sports vs Volkswagen Polo GT TDI comparison

• What are they like to drive?

The Polo GT TDI and the Figo S are both powered by 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel engines, mated to five-speed manual gearboxes. The Figo S puts out 100hp, while the Polo GT TDI makes a stronger 110hp.

On the road, one thing becomes immediately clear – neither of the two is a hot hatch in the traditional sense. Yes, the diesel engines provide adequate punch but the hardcore performance and hyper agility are absent. But they are still loads of fun and very pleasant to drive all the same.
The Polo GT TDI's engine (it's up 20hp and 20Nm on the regular Polo's) is punchy, with the bulk of the power residing in the mid-range. And this is where the car is in its elements, pushing forward with muscular thrust. It responds only after 1,900rpm and really comes alive after 2,100rpm. From there, power is delivered constantly until 5,000rpm. In our performance test, the GT did 0-100kph in a quick 10.51sec. There is a noticeable clatter from the engine at idle and vibrations filter through the cabin too, but it never sounds strained until 4,800rpm. The gearshifts from the manual box are precise and quick.

The Figo S, as with the regular Figo, boasts a great diesel engine. This 1.5-litre unit responds better than the Polo's, pulling from as early as 1,600rpm and it feels quicker to respond. It pulls cleanly until 5,000rpm with a linearity we commonly associate with petrol engines. Performance is also good as it does 0-100kph in 10.55sec, which is as fast as the Polo. However, post 4,500rpm, it starts running out of steam and the noise from the engine increases. Gearshifts are smooth, though not as precise as the Polo's, and the clutch is heavy and springy here.

While the Figo S gets the same powertrain as the regular diesel Figo, its steering system and suspension setup have been retuned to improve its handling characteristics, as would behove a performance-oriented hatchback. And honestly, ride and handling is the real differentiator between the regular Figo and the Figo S. The ride is absorbent, cushy at low and high speeds, and the steering is direct with decent feel. It also has more grip than the standard version. The Figo S really shines when you step up the pace. It feels extremely secure and comfortable at speed, the sharper responses make it a thrill to drive and Ford has improved front grip so much, it turns into corners very nicely and feels planted.

The Polo isn't nearly as involving to drive in the bends. Sure, through corners, the car maintains its line, with ample grip provided at the tyres and the steering is fairly direct, but as with most Volkswagens, it's a bit vague around the centre and feedback or feel is in short supply. The Polo GT TDI has an absorbent low-speed ride but is accompanied by some amount of body movement. While the body movements settle down at higher speeds, it will take road undulations with a muted thud.

Braking on both cars is good. Though not outstanding, the brakes on the Figo S are a bit better.