Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

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.

 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.

Range Rover Evoque Vs Land Rover Discovery Sport

The Mercedes A-Class is a popular choice for drivers looking for a compact luxury car offering a sleek design, premium features, and a comfortable ride. But when it comes to reliability, does it live up to the brand’s reputation? 

In this guide, we’ll break down the most common Mercedes A-Class problems, and what to watch out for, whether you’re already a proud owner or are thinking of getting one for yourself. 

While the A-Class delivers on style and performance, it’s not without its issues when it comes to reliability. Some previous owners have reported anything from loss of power to automatic gearbox faults. 

Whether you're considering buying one or already own an A-Class, it’s worth knowing the most common faults and what to look out for.

A-Class owners often complain about a loss of power, which can be caused by several issues. Common culprits include fuel injector problems and engine oil leaks.

If your A-Class is losing power or coughing out a lot of smoke, a faulty fuel injector could be the cause. If this is the case, a fuel injector repair will not only improve performance but also prevent bigger issues like clogged injectors and engine damage.

Engine oil leaks are another known problem in the A-Class. If you leave them too long, low oil levels can damage your engine over time. Think your A-Class might be leaking? Keep an eye out for oil patches under the car, a burning smell, or warning lights on your dashboard – catching one early could save you from expensive 

The A-Class is often fitted with a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which is designed for smoother, more responsive shifts – but owners have noticed some common problems, especially with early models.

The automatic gearbox in some A-Class models can feel slow to respond, especially at low speeds, which can make stop-start traffic a pain. If gear changes feel jerky or delayed, it could be a sign of a bigger problem with the dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

Key internal parts inside the automatic transmission can wear out quicker than expected, which can lead to some very expensive repairs. 

Transmission issues like slipping gears often start small but tend to get worse quickly. Catch them early to save yourself from expensive 

Some electrical issues in the gearbox can be fixed with a software update, but more serious faults may need a full gearbox replacement. 

 can really set you back, so it's worth checking for any warning signs before they spiral – whining or grinding noises when changing gears and a burning smell are common red flags. 

for your Mercedes A-Class? There’s a smarter way. With Bumper, you can split your repair bill into interest-free monthly payments – no credit checks, no hidden fees.

Like most modern cars, the A-Class is packed with electronic systems. While this adds plenty of high-tech features, it also means a higher chance of electrical issues cropping up.

Some Mercedes A-Class models struggle to start due to starter motor faults. If you turn the key (or push the button) and nothing happens, a worn starter motor could be the culprit. Ignore it for too long, and you could end up stranded with an expensive repair on your hands.

A-Class owners have reported all sorts of electrical issues with the infotainment system – frozen touchscreens, unresponsive controls, and dodgy connectivity. In some cases, a quick software update sorts it out, but bigger problems might mean replacing the system entirely, which isn’t cheap.

Some A-Class models have issues with the passenger airbag sensor, which can trigger warning lights. In the worst-case scenario, it could even stop the airbag from working in a crash. If the airbag light comes on, it’s best to get it checked sooner rather than later.

The Mercedes A-Class is absolutely worth owning if you want a car that combines luxury with strong performance. But, like any car, it comes with its share of common faults that can lead to needing 

If your A-Class needs repairs, don’t let the cost hold you back. With our 

, you can get it sorted today and spread the cost over 6 interest-free monthly payments. Approval is quick and easy, so you’ll never be left waiting, and with over 5,000 trusted service partners across the UK, there’s always a garage nearby. 

How reliable is the Mercedes A-Class? Common issues to know

¿Es fiable el Mercedes Clase A? Problemas comunes que debes conocer

Wie zuverlässig ist die Mercedes A-Klasse? Häufige Probleme im Überblick

Voluntary termination (or VT for short) helps you get out of a car finance contract if you can’t keep up with the payments. 

Today, we're diving into how voluntary termination of car finance works, why you might consider it, and the financial impacts involved, so you can make an informed decision that’s best for you.

What is voluntary termination of car finance?

Voluntary termination (VT) is a term used to describe ending your car finance agreement before the official contract end date. 

, this option has been available for all UK drivers, provided they meet the relevant criteria. 

If you choose Voluntary Termination (VT), your finance contract ends, and you must return the vehicle—meaning you can’t keep the car. This option protects drivers facing financial changes, providing a safeguard in challenging circumstances.

Voluntary termination vs voluntary surrender

Voluntary termination and voluntary surrender may sound similar, but they’re very different concepts. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Knowing the difference between the two can help you avoid any confusion when filing your application, and will save you future charges!

What are your rights under the Consumer Credit Act?

Section 99 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

This grants consumers the right to terminate regulated hire-purchase or conditional sale agreements before the final payment is due. 

To exercise this right, you must have paid at least 50% of the total amount payable under the agreement. This total includes the vehicle cost, interest, and any additional fees outlined in the contract. 

If 50% has not yet been paid, the consumer can make an additional payment to reach this threshold and proceed with the termination. 

You must fulfil these terms and conditions to be eligible for VT. 

Reasons to file for voluntary termination

There are a few common reasons for filing for voluntary termination, such as:

The reasons mainly surround finances and being able to afford the car. It’s not an option for those who just fancy a new car and want to get out of their contract.

How voluntary termination car finance works

Voluntary termination is an option for new and used cars financed through PCP or HP agreements. 

The general steps to apply and start VT include:

You can ensure a smoother transition by documenting your vehicle’s condition, maintaining clear communication, and by keeping a record of all phone calls, emails or letters.

If you’re ever unsure, contact the finance provider for more information.

In a PCP agreement, the 50% threshold includes interest, fees, and the 

, not just monthly payments. Even halfway through your term, you may not have reached this amount. 

If you haven't, you can pay the difference to qualify for voluntary termination, but any payments beyond 50% won't be refunded.

HP (Hire Purchase) voluntary terminations are much simpler than PCP. 

HP contracts don’t have any lump-sum balloon payments. Rather, your repayments are spread evenly across your term.

When you reach the halfway paying point, you automatically qualify for the 50% payment requirement. You can even pay the difference to get to the 50% mark if you’re slightly short of this amount.

How long does voluntary termination take?

Once you apply, voluntary termination is a quick process. 

However, finance companies aren’t usually keen on this process, and may lengthen the application time if you’re not clear about your circumstances.

Want to speed up the process? Ensure you clearly understand what you want, know the difference between voluntary termination and surrender, and meet the necessary requirements.

Financial drawbacks of voluntary termination

Exercising voluntary termination can have several financial consequences you may want to consider. These include:

Does voluntary termination affect your credit score?

No, VT doesn’t negatively impact your credit score.

However, as mentioned above, it will appear on 

 This may influence lender’s opinions in the future, even if your credit score doesn’t drop.

Voluntary termination gives you a way to walk away from your car finance agreement legally and without major penalties, as long as you follow the rules.

Just make sure you go through the process carefully, meet all the requirements, and understand any financial impacts along the way.

Find more information for UK drivers via the Bumper blog.

Owning a car can come with plenty of surprise expenses. 

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

What Is Voluntary Termination of Car Finance?

Congratulations to Evans Halshaw Renault Dacia Sunderland who have been crowned our next Dealership of the Month. 

Since joining the Bumper network in 2022, Evans Halshaw has been using PayLater to split the cost of customers’ repair bills into interest-free monthly payments. 

PayLater enables dealers to increase their customer satisfaction, retention, and conversion of repair work. 

Customers celebrated the interest-free option at Evans Halshaw Renault Dacia Sunderland on Trustpilot. 

One customer said, “Finance was there when we absolutely needed it. Had a trip to Kent booked for the Thursday of the same week. Work needed done - Bumper helped pay for it.” 

Another praised the innovative payment option for being easy to set up: “This is the first time that I have been offered the opportunity to pay off my repair bill in instalments, a most welcome event. The process was both easy and speedy to arrange.” 

Congratulations to Beth, Katie, Daniel and the whole team at Evans Halshaw Renault Dacia Sunderland!

Winner: Evans Halshaw Sunderland crowned Dealer of the Month 

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. 