An internal combustion engine has many different sensors and computers, all working to monitor the various inputs and outputs of the engine. When something out of the ordinary is detected, the computer alerts the driver.

One of the most common indicators of a fault is the Engine Management Light. You’ve probably seen it at some point, it is a universal shape across almost all car brands. But what exactly does the light mean?

Where is the Engine Management Light and What Does it Look Like?

Each car is slightly different, but the engine management light (EML) will probably display somewhere around your speedometer. It’s a good idea to check where it is, and that it’s working before a fault occurs.

To see the light - and all the other warning lights - turn the car's ignition on, but don’t start it yet, the lights will illuminate as part of the usual starting procedure. Look for this shape:

What Do Different Engine Management Lights Mean

Whilst the shape of the EML is standard, it can appear in different colours and states. These are the likely EMLs you may see:

What Does A Steady Orange Engine Management Light Mean?

A steady orange EML is the least severe kind, it indicates an issue with the engine that should be investigated but does not warrant immediately pulling over and stopping.

If your car has an orange engine warning light lit, get it booked in as soon as possible but it will most likely be fine to complete your journey.

What Does A Flashing Orange Engine Management Light Mean?

A flashing light is usually an indicator of something more serious, if you have an orange, flashing engine management light on your dash, pay close attention to how the car is driving and ideally get it looked at that day. 

Especially avoid driving on dual carriageways or motorways whilst this light is lit, just in case the fault causes a breakdown. Don’t make any unnecessary journeys until the car has been looked at.

What Does A Red Engine Management Light Mean?

Red warning lights almost always indicate a serious fault. If your engine management light is red, stop driving as soon as possible and contact your recovery company. 

Continuing to drive could well compromise your safety and the car's engine. 

What Can Cause the Engine Management Light to Come on?

The EML is a generic fault indicator that can be triggered by many different issues. That said, the most likely cause will be one of the following:

Is the Engine Management Light an MOT Failure?

Yes, if the engine management light illuminates at any point during the MOT test, it will be considered a serious fault and will fail your MOT.

That said, this rule only applies to petrol cars registered after 1st July 2003 and diesel vehicles registered after 1st July 2008.

How Can I Turn off an Engine Management Light?

If your car has an engine management light illuminated, the best thing to do is get the fault investigated and repaired, this will remove the light. 

A diagnostic scan tool can turn off the light, by clearing the fault code in the 

, but unless the problem is also fixed, the light will come back on within seconds of starting the engine.

To make car repair bills easier, use Bumper’s zero-percent interest 

Can I Drive My Car with an Engine Management Light on?

Depending on the severity of the fault, indicated by the colour of the EML, you may be able to still drive the car. 

A steady orange light is likely to be a minor issue, so only drive if you absolutely have to, if the light is flashing or red, don’t drive it, and consult a mechanic as soon as possible.

Why Do I Lose Power When the Engine Management Light Comes on?

Whilst they often happen together, the EML won't be the cause of the loss of power, both are a symptom of a different problem. This could be that the car is in limp-home mode due to an engine fault, a turbo pipe leak, or something else.

If your car has lost power, don’t drive any further than necessary, as it could be dangerous. Consult a mechanic as soon as possible. 

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

What Does the Engine Management Light Mean?

The term Mild-Hybrid is commonplace nowadays, with most manufacturers making them in some form, but what exactly is a mild hybrid?

In this article, we’ll cover exactly what they are, how they work and whether you should consider one for your next car.

A mild hybrid is a car that features a small electric motor alongside a petrol or diesel engine, but unlike full hybrids, it doesn't have the ability to drive solely on electric power. Both the motor and battery are much smaller than other hybrid vehicles.

The electric motor helps assist the engine during acceleration, and recovers energy during braking, helping to boost fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Mild Hybrids, unlike plug in or full hybrids, are usually only slightly more expensive than the petrol or diesel equivalent, thanks to their simplicity.

In a mild hybrid car, the electric motor works in tandem with the internal combustion engine (ICE). It doesn't drive the wheels by itself but contributes power to the engine in certain situations, such as when you accelerate from a standstill.

One key difference between mild hybrids and full or plug-in hybrids is that the electric motor is not connected directly to the drivetrain, it is instead connected to the engine. In many cases, the MHEV motor replaces the traditional starter motor, this means that the car can retain a traditional clutch and gearbox.

Can a Mild Hybrid Run on Electricity Only?

No, a mild hybrid cannot run purely on electricity, unlike full hybrid or plug-in hybrids (PHEV), which can travel short distances on electric power. Mild hybrids are powered by their petrol and diesel engines 100% of the time, with short periods of assistance from the motor.

Yes! Mild hybrids do indeed charge their small battery while driving, this is the only way the battery can be charged. As you decelerate, the electric motor acts as a generator and feeds some of that energy back into the battery - this is known as regenerative braking.

No, you cannot plug in a mild hybrid to charge it. The battery recharges automatically through regenerative braking. 

Owing to its small size, the battery in a mild hybrid will often be fully charged after a short journey with a few downhill sections.

What’s the Difference Between a Mild and Full Hybrid Car?

The key difference between a mild hybrid and a full hybrid lies in how much the electric motor can do, and how it is connected to the wheels. A full hybrid, such as the Toyota Prius, has its electric motor connected to the drivetrain in parallel with the engine, meaning either one, or both, can send power to the wheels.

In contrast, a mild hybrid’s electric motor is attached to the engine, and can only assist whilst the engine is running, meaning you cannot drive on electric power alone.

The cost of a mild hybrid car varies depending on the model, brand, and features, but generally, mild hybrids tend to be more affordable than full hybrids or plug-in hybrids. You can expect to pay a little premium over a standard petrol or diesel model - usually around £1,000 to £2,000.

For some buying tips on which hybrid could be best for you, why not check out our article on the 

In terms of running costs, mild hybrids offer better fuel economy than normal ICE cars, but are typically not quite as good as full or PHEV hybrids. Expect to see a modest improvement in fuel economy of around 0-15%. For example, a Ford Fiesta EcoBoost Mild Hybrid could offer up to 55 mpg, compared to around 50 mpg for the older petrol version.

Unfortunately as mild hybrids don't have an EV-only range, the hybrid system is unlikely to help reduce company car tax and VED much, but it might just push the car into a lower band, depending on the alternatives.

Mild hybrids are a great option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of hybrid cars without the cost or charging infrastructure needed. They're a solid choice for those who want better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and a bit of extra help from an electric motor but don’t mind keeping the petrol engine as the main driving force.

I would recommend anyone looking for a petrol car to consider an MHEV, but those looking for an ultimate economy, or electric-only range, should look to plug-in or self-charging hybrids.

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What Are Mild Hybrids?

You can’t browse for a new car online, visit a dealership, or even watch TV without hearing about hybrid cars, for the past 20+ years they’ve been the biggest motoring trend. 

Manufacturers claim numerous benefits, the most prominent being 

, but what actually is a hybrid car, and how do they work?

The term hybrid refers to a car that uses both a traditional internal combustion engine and an electric motor for propulsion. All modern hybrids have a lithium battery pack that stores the electrical energy used by the motor.

Exactly how the engine and motor work together differs between types of hybrid, with some directly powering the wheels, and others adding power to the engine's output, retaining the traditional gearbox arrangement. 

How the batteries get charged is also something that sets the different hybrids apart. All hybrids add charge to the battery from regenerative braking to some degree, but there are also hybrids that can be charged from a charger, just like an electric car. 

As we just touched on, there are multiple different types of hybrid, each combining electric and internal combustion power in slightly different ways.

The self-charging hybrid was the first kind to be sold, with the Toyota Prius in 1999. They use only regenerative braking to charge the battery. This is energy that would otherwise be wasted when braking. Self-charging hybrids are also known as parallel or full hybrids.

To enable this, the car operates the electric motor as a generator, converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy in the form of battery charge. Early self-charging hybrids were celebrated for their incredible fuel efficiency, thanks to this principle.

Self-charging hybrids can typically drive under electric-only power at low speeds, such as when in traffic, with the engine kicking in at around 15mph.

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Plug-in hybrids still use regenerative braking to charge the battery, but they can also be charged from a home or public charger, in a similar fashion to EVs. This enables them to use the electric motor for greater periods of time.

Many plug-in hybrids can even cover a certain distance on electric only power, this is typically around 40 miles.

As the name suggests, a mild hybrid incorporates the basic premise of combining an electric motor with a petrol engine, but on a smaller scale. Mild hybrids have small electric motors and small batteries. 

In a mild hybrid, the electric motor cannot transfer power to the wheels, instead, it assists the engine, through the same drivetrain as a normal petrol-engined vehicle. 

As the combination of motor and engine replaces the traditional gearbox and clutch arrangement, all self-charging (full) and plug-in hybrids are automatic.

However, lots of mild hybrids are available with a manual gearbox.

Only Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) need charging, all other types of hybrid cars (self-charging/full and mild) convert otherwise wasted energy into battery charge, and cannot be charged.

With the increase in fuel economy, lower VED rates, and lower company car tax, hybrid cars are almost always cheaper to run than a comparatively sized petrol or diesel-engined car.

One of the best-rated hybrids is made by the company that started it all, Toyota. The new Corolla is an excellent blend of practicality, fuel efficiency and excellent engineering, it's hard to beat.

That said, most of the other brands also making hybrids are putting out some great cars, from Renault to BMW,

What is a Hybrid?

Since the Euro 5 regulatations that came into effect in 2009, Diesel particulate filters have effectively been mandatory on all new Diesel engined vehicles. 

The main aim of this regulation change was to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants emitted in towns and cities. In this article we’ll delve into what they are, why they’re used and what the drawbacks can be.

As the name suggests, it is a filter that prevents harmful particulates from exiting the engine via the exhaust system. The main particulate it stops is soot, this is a by-product of using diesel fuel. 

A DPF’s job is to trap the soot and hold it until it can be transformed into ash via a process called regeneration, which requires the DPF to be extremely hot. 

The main benefit in buring soot into ash is that the latter is much less harmful to humans, soot stays in the air we breathe for a long time, and makes up most of inner city air pollution.

Inside the unit are a series of filters, these trap the soot and keep it until it burns away. As already mentioned the burning process is known as regeneration, and it requires the filter to be at nearly 500°C. 

As the exhaust only reaches these temperatures at high speeds and engine loads, the ash will typically not burn off until the car is driven at high speeds for an extended period, such as when on the motorway.

This helps to both reduce the amount of soot emitted in and around town, but also to reduce the amount of overall polutants deposited into the air we breathe.

There are two types of regeneration; Active and Passive. Passive regeneration is the type just explained, this happens during normal usage (as long as long journeys are made) and the car’s computer needs not intervene. 

If for any reason the car is not driven at high speeds, for instance through traffic in town, the car's ECU (Electronic Control Unit) will detect that the DPF has not regenerated for a long time. It will then start an active regeneration cycle.

Active or forced regeneration generally involves the engine altering the fuel/air mixture in order to make the engine produce more heat from the exhaust, this is not very fuel efficient but can help to remove built up soot.

Some cars even use a specialst catalyst solution stored in a tank, that is injected into the DPF to aid the burning of deposited soot.

What is a Blocked Diesel Particulate Filter? 

A common fault with any DPF system is the complete or almost complete blockage of the filter due to excessive soot build up. 

One of the most cited reasons for not choosing a diesel engined car is that they need to be driven long distances, this is in part due to the DPF, another common cause can be the EGR valve.

As already mentioned, the DPF needs to reach temperatures of approximately 500°C in order for the soot to be burnt off. If the vehicle is only driven for short periods of time, the passive regeneration of the DPF will not occur. 

The ECU will inevitably try to force a regeneration, but this can only be completed if the car is at a certain temperature already and will be driven for a certain time after the regeneration has started. This is often not the case within cities and with infrequent use. 

Diesel Particulate Filters are a relatively new addition to the average diesel vehicle in the UK, they have been used in off-road diesel vehicles since 1980, such as forklifts and excavators. HGVs and trains have also used them for many years.

It wasn’t until the new Euro 5 regulations in 2009 that meant all diesel vehicles sold in Europe now required a filter to bring overall emissions down. Many manufacturers added them in advance, The PSA group (Citroen and Peugeot) were the first manufacturer to include DPFs as standard.

This means if your diesel car was sold after 2009, it will almost certainly have a DPF. Many cars prior to 2009 will do as well though, as manufacturers modified their designs to comply in advance.

The best way to check is to look in your owner’s handbook for reference to DPF regeration or similiar.

There are a number of considerations when driving a vehicle with a DPF, to ensure it does not get prematurely clogged and cause issues.

As we discussed in the regeneration section, the exhaust needs to be hot to burn off the soot, if it never reaches a temperature high enough, it will only become more blocked.

To mitigate this, don’t use the car for solely short journeys, or ensure at least once a week it does a journey above 40mph for over 30 minutes, or more if possible.

Special oils have been developed for use in DPF-fitted cars, with a lower content of elements that can cause soot build up, namely Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus and Sulphur.

These are usually labelled as low SAPS, and will be found at any regular shop selling engine oil. For more information about oils, 

Take care of any other engine issues promptly 

Diesels are generally more complex than petrol engines, and have various components that can fail and cause issues with DPFs.

You should pay close attention to any issues pertaining to:

All of the above can cause excess oil or soot to exit the engine, either through miss-fueling or oil consumption. These will clog up a DPF in record time, so be on the lookout for dash warning lights and act quickly.

In order to prevent the need for complete DPF replacement, you should be aware of any issues as soon as they arise. Here are the most common symptoms of a blocked DPF:

, it's best to sort it as soon as possible, as it will only get worse. For 

interest free vehicle repairs and servicing

, enter your vehicle registration and postcode on our website.

has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

What is a DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)?

If you’re in the market for a mid-size luxury SUV, you'll undoubtedly come across both the Range Rover Evoque and the Discovery Sport in your search. Whilst these are a few similarities, the two cars are aimed at slightly different markets. This guide will help you pick between the two.

From the 1970s to the launch of the Evoque, Range Rovers were always full-size SUVs, with the smallest being the Range Rover Sport. In 2011 the Jaguar Land Rover group identified a gap in the market for a smaller car that retains the Range Rover branding and style. 

The Evoque was very popular on release and still is today, 14 years later. It appeals to those looking for the luxury and style of a Range Rover, but who don't need an enormous SUV like the full-size Range Rover.

Originally, the Land Rover Discovery was a less agricultural version of the Defender, featuring better bodywork and a more comfortable interior. Over the years, the Discovery evolved into something more akin to the Range Rover but retained its off-road prowess.

The Discovery Sport was launched in 2014, as a replacement for the outgoing Freelander. It was incredibly successful, appealing to those looking for a luxurious yet compact SUV. It stands a good bit smaller than both the Discovery and the Range Rover. 

Both cars are on the larger side, being compact SUVs, check out the table below to compare the two:

From the stats above, we can see the Evoque is smaller in every dimension, with its height being considerably shorter than the discovery. This gives it a much sleeker look, with notably shorter windows in the front and back. 

Interestingly the boot space is very similar on both, despite the Evoque being 240mm shorter. There is also less than a tennis ball's width between them, meaning any parking spot or tight road you navigate will be as difficult in either car.

Both the Evoque and the Discovery Sport have hybrid options, you can have either a petrol or diesel plug-in hybrid. Both engines are derived from BMW units, so should be pretty reliable. 

Both cars can be optioned with many of the same engines, with multiple petrol and diesels for both. Starting with the smallest, a 1.5 petrol MHEV powertrain is available giving good economy but mediocre performance, especially in the larger Discovery. The next size up being the 2.0.

If you do longer journeys or tow a trailer, a better option might be the one of the various diesels in the range. The most popular being the 2.0 MHEV, producing 201bhp and a substantial 429Nm of torque. 

As the engines are the same across the models, it's really down to how you plan to use the car, as to which one will suit you best.

Whilst the Range Rover Evoque and Discovery Sport are from different sub-brands, the design philosophy is evidently shared. The shape of the headlights, front wings and grille are very similar.

Both cars hit the nail on the head for the luxury SUV segment, with stylish and sleek look accents to the overall look. With its higher roofline, the Discovery Sport does show its roots to a utility vehicle a little more, but not so much to mistake it for anything other than a luxury SUV.

Inside, both cars share the same steering wheel and infotainment screen. The dashboard and centre console are both evidently from the same designer too. One thing to differentiate is the Evoques' slightly more contoured seats and centre console. 

If buying on the second-hand or nearly new market, you're much more likely to find an Evoque with a coloured interior than the discovery, the latter being almost exclusively supplied in matt black finish.

If you look at the reliability scores for both cars, there isn’t much between them, both score around the same level, with the Discovery faring slightly better across most categories.

In terms of warranty, both cars come with a 3-year, unlimited mileage warranty, so it would probably serve you well to buy new or nearly new, rather than off-lease unless you have a decent aftermarket warranty. 

Repair costs for Range Rover products are some of the highest of any brand, so bear this in mind when making your decision.

As you’d expect, both cars received a 5-star NCAP rating at the time of launch. The Evoque’s adult occupancy rating is the only standout rating of the below stats, putting it a good way ahead of the Discovery Sport.

In terms of airbags, collision avoidance and other safety features, there’s nothing between them.

The Discovery Sport starts at around £43,445 if you configure one direct from Range Rover, you may be able to get a discount on a forecourt car though, especially if you're quick, considering the new reg will be arriving in April.

The Evoque is around the same price, at £43,700, again you could possibly pick up a deal from a main dealer if you’re quick. This puts the cars directly in competition with one another, meaning the decision between the two is based primarily on their looks, practicality and taste.

Both models offer multiple levels of equipment specification, with everything from adaptive cruise control and sunroofs to towing packs and sporty seats on offer. 

If you want an SUV that focuses on style and sleekness, the Evoque is the perfect choice, being the baby in the Range Rover lineup. If off-road capability and load-carrying capacity are the be-all and end-all, the Discovery Sport will offer more in both departments.

Once in the cabin, there’s not much you’ll do to notice the difference, with fit and trim being relatively similar. Ultimately both will offer an incredibly luxurious alternative to the more bare-bones compact SUVs on the market.

Range Rover Evoque Vs Land Rover Discovery Sport

If you’re in the market for a small or compact Ford, the choice often boils down to two options: the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus. Both cars are UK staples, known for their driving dynamics, practicality, and overall good value for money. 

However, while they come from the same brand, they’re aimed at slightly different segments of the market. In this article, we’ll compare the two models across key areas to help you decide which one suits you best.

 has been one of the most popular small cars in the UK for decades. Originally launched in 1976, the Fiesta has evolved into a practical and fun-to-drive hatchback that appeals to first-time buyers, city dwellers, and those who simply want a reliable car for everyday use.

It offers a range of engine options, technology, and customisation, making it a versatile choice in the small car category, it currently sits as Ford’s second-smallest car. The Fiesta isn’t in production any more, but you can still get some nearly-new models for a reasonable price.

 is a compact family hatchback that has been a mainstay of the UK car market since 1998. Known for its sharp handling and practicality, the Focus offers more space than the Fiesta while still being nimble enough to appeal to those who enjoy a lively driving experience. 

It’s a good fit for families or individuals who need a little more space, but still want a manageable car for urban driving.

When it comes to size, the Fiesta is noticeably smaller, being over a foot in length shorter. This translates to a bigger boot and more legroom for rear passengers. 

As expected, the Ford Focus is larger in nearly every dimension. It offers more interior space, especially when it comes to boot capacity, making it a better option for families or those who regularly carry more luggage. 

The Fiesta, however, is more compact and nimble, making it ideal for tight urban environments and smaller parking spaces. Interestingly the Focus weighing only 133kg more should help it remain nearly on-par fuel economy-wise.

Both the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus are available in hybrid versions, reflecting the industry's shift towards greener alternatives. The Fiesta is available as a mild-hybrid (MHEV) with a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. 

The Focus also offers MHEV variants, as well as a full hybrid version with a 2.0-litre engine and an electric motor. This allows for a better balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a good option for longer trips or those doing motorway journeys regularly. 

However, neither car is currently offered as a fully electric model, though Ford’s plans for the future might change this.

Both the Fiesta and Focus offer a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as hybrid variants.

The Fiesta’s engine lineup includes a 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 95bhp, 125bhp, or 155bhp, with a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. In 2020, Ford stopped offering the Fiesta with a Diesel engine.

The Ford Focus has a large range of engines, with options ranging from a 1.0-litre EcoBoost to a more powerful 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel producing up to 120bhp. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available.

If you're planning on regular motorway trips or towing, the Focus is also available with a 150 or 190hp 2.0 diesel, giving the power and torque needed over the smaller petrol engines.

The Ford Fiesta and Focus are both recognisably Ford, but they cater to different tastes. The Fiesta is more compact, with a more youthful design that has sharp lines and a more aggressive front grille. The later models all began to adopt some of the styling of the ST line, sportier versions.

The Focus, while sharing some styling cues with the Fiesta, has a more mature, sophisticated look. It’s larger and more sculpted, with a bolder grille and sleeker lines, making it appear more grown-up and executive.

In short, if you prefer a sportier vibe, the Fiesta will appeal more. If you're after something a bit more refined and practical, the Focus might be more your style.

Inside, the Fiesta is designed for a smaller, more minimalist feel. It offers a good-quality interior with soft-touch materials, but it doesn’t feel as spacious or plush as the Focus. The dashboard layout is simple, with a large touchscreen in the centre and physical buttons for ease of use.

The Ford Focus offers a more premium interior, with a larger infotainment screen and a more expansive layout. The materials used feel more upmarket, and there’s more space throughout, including rear-seat legroom. The Focus feels like a step up in terms of overall comfort and luxury.

From new, both came with Ford’s standard 3-year/60,000-mile warranty, but as the Fiesta is no longer available new, be sure to check things like service history carefully. Both cars are generally well-regarded, with the Fiesta holding a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability due to its simpler technology and lower running costs.

One consideration with both of these cars and any recent Ford product is the EcoBoost wet belt issue. On some engines, the 1.0 litre being the biggest offender, the 

 deteriorating can contaminate the oil, leading to engine failure. 

Before purchasing any car with a wet cam belt, check the engine oil and cambelt servicing meticulously, and avoid any car that’s missing proof of these service items.

Both the Ford Fiesta and Focus are equipped with modern safety features, including multiple airbags, traction control, and automatic emergency braking. The Ford Fiesta has received a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with good results in adult occupant protection and pedestrian safety.

The Focus also boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and includes more advanced safety tech, like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It offers a higher level of safety tech, making it a better option if advanced features are a priority.

The Ford Fiesta starts at around £16,000 for the base model, making it an affordable option for those on a tighter budget. As the Fiesta is no longer available new, there are some good deals to be had on a 3-year-old off-lease car.

The Ford Focus, being a larger and more premium offering, starts at around £28,500. Higher-end models like the Titanium and ST-Line tack on anything from £3-6,000.

In terms of value for money, the Fiesta excels for those who want a cheap, fun, and reliable car, but if you need extra space and practicality, the Focus offers excellent value for money too.

The Ford Fiesta is the perfect choice for those who need a compact, affordable car for city driving or commuting. Its small size, lower running costs, and fun handling make it ideal for young drivers or anyone who doesn’t need a lot of space.

On the other hand, the Ford Focus offers a more mature and refined driving experience, with more space, better comfort, and more advanced safety features. It’s the better choice for families, longer commutes, or those who want a more grown-up car.

Ultimately, the choice between the Fiesta and Focus depends on your priorities: whether it’s the nimble agility of the Fiesta or the more spacious and sophisticated Focus. Both are excellent cars in their own right, so you can’t go wrong with either option.

Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which Should You Choose?

With the Golf arguably being the quintessential hatchback, you’d be forgiven for gravitating towards it immediately when searching for a new, practical family car. However, the new Polo is bigger than ever, and might actually be plenty of car for your needs, at a lower price point. 

In this article, I’ll compare the two on all the critical features, and give you some useful information to pick between the two.

 was the German automaker's replacement for the incredibly successful “car of the people”; the Beetle. Its design brief was simple, to be as compact and efficient as possible, whilst being able to carry 4 adults and luggage. 

Since then it has remained one of the most popular car models to exist, with everyone from new drivers to families enjoying the hatchback's practicality, with the great driveability.

Since its release it has seen 8 major model changes, with the current generation, the Mk8.5 (facelifted Mk8), being launched in 2020. The main shift over time is scale, the current Golf is enormous compared to the original.

Capitalising on the Golf's success, VW wanted to make a smaller version, to appeal to city drivers. Their prior acquisition of Audi in the 1960s gave the VW engineers the perfect car to rebadge; the Audi 50. In 1975 they launched the 

Since then the Polo has gone through 6 generations, with the current model, the Mk6 facelift or Mk6.5 having been in production since 2012. A new model, the Mk7, is expected to be launched this year, so if you want the latest look, hold tight for that.

The two cars fall distinctly into two categories, Hatchback for the Golf, and Supermini for the Polo, although this could be contested with the creation of the even smaller but now discontinued VW Lupo and Up!. 

The Golf's more generous proportions are noticeable when compared side-by-side, except the height, I’ve listed the key stats below:

Interestingly, whilst the Golf is 200mm (8”) longer than the Polo, and a whopping 681kg heavier, its boot capacity is only 30L more, which when you consider the width of the boot area, will make very little difference to usable space.

Currently, the Polo is not available with any hybrid or electric options, with all engines being either solely petrol or diesel-powered. The Golf is available in the GTE version, which delivers nearly 250hp via an electric-hybrid combination.

Until 2020 the e-Golf provided an all-electric option, but this was discontinued in line with the introduction of the ID range of all-electric vehicles, the ID.3 being the Golf equivalent.

Across the Golf’s range of petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, there is sure to be something that suits your needs. Power outputs range from an economic 115PS from the 1.5 TSI petrol to over 240 in the GTI. 

Many of these options can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG auto gearbox.

On the other hand, the Polo has a tight range of petrol engines, either a 1.0L or a 2.0L are on offer, with power outputs varying from 79hp to just over 200 - the latter from the sporty GTI model. 

Being similar-sized cars from the same brand, the Polo and Golf are very similar in their looks, with only very subtle differences in shapes and colourways of trim. The biggest difference is the proportions of both. 

Whilst the Golf has become more squat; being wide and with a relatively low roofline, the Polo actually looks quite tall. This is backed up by the numbers we saw earlier, where the Polo is only marginally lower than the Golf, but a good bit shorter.

To be sure which you prefer, seeing them side-by-side will be invaluable because the difference really is so small it's hard to spot it at first glance.

Being made by Volkswagen, neither car will disappoint in the build quality department. Whilst the interior panels aren’t covered with soft, quilted leather, they are robust and without any kind of ‘flimsiness’. 

Styling-wise, in my opinion, the Golf presents a more mature, thought-out version of the Polo. Its dashboard design is similar, but more refined, with everything on a touchscreen, that although not loved by all, makes for a sleeker look. 

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer