Vauxhall Corsa vs Volkswagen Polo: Which is Better? (2026)
Side-by-side comparison of the Vauxhall Corsa and Volkswagen Polo, covering MOT pass rates, running costs, common faults, and overall reliability. Based on 2,663,518 real MOT tests.
Quick Verdict
The Volkswagen Polo comes out slightly ahead with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Vauxhall Corsa. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Volkswagen Polo has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Vauxhall Corsa
77%
MOT pass rate
1,531,243 tests
Volkswagen Polo
78%
MOT pass rate
1,132,275 tests
More reliableFull Comparison: Vauxhall Corsa vs Volkswagen Polo
| Category | Vauxhall Corsa | Volkswagen Polo |
|---|---|---|
| MOT Pass Rate | 77% | 78%Winner |
| MOT Fail Rate | 23% | 22%Winner |
| vs National Avg | -5 pts | -4 ptsWinner |
| Est. Fuel Cost (8,000 mi/yr) | £1,195 | £1,195 |
| Insurance Group | 6-15 | 6-15 |
| Est. Depreciation/yr | £1,200-£2,200 | £1,200-£2,200 |
| Engine Size | 1.3L | 1.4L |
| Fuel Type(s) | Petrol, Diesel | Petrol, Diesel |
| Segment | Small family car | Small family car |
| Avg Mileage | 69,847 miWinner | 74,158 mi |
| MOT Tests Analysed | 1,531,243 | 1,132,275 |
| Model Years | 29 years | 34 years |
| Best Year | 2021 (96%)Winner | 2022 (95%) |
| Worst Year | 2003 (67%) | 2003 (67%) |
| Reliability Trend | Improving | Improving |
Common Problems Comparison
Vauxhall Corsa Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Volkswagen Polo Known Issues
- •DPF and emissions issues (diesel models)
- •Suspension wear on older models
- •Lighting defects (common on all cars)
Check a Specific Vauxhall Corsa
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Vauxhall Corsa.
Check a Specific Volkswagen Polo
Enter a reg plate to see the exact MOT history and running costs for a specific Volkswagen Polo.
Save Money on Your Vauxhall Corsa
Exclusive deals and services picked for your Vauxhall Corsa
Compare car insurance
Could save you £200+ on insurance
Get quotes from top UK insurers in minutes
Compare quotes →Compare prices in 60 seconds
🚗Breakdown cover
Cover from under £4/month
RAC, AA, and Green Flag deals compared
Compare cover →Instant online quotes
✅Extended warranty
Plans from £15/month
Protect against unexpected repair bills
Get a quote →Cover starts immediately
🔧Book an MOT
Save up to 50% vs dealerships
Find the cheapest MOT near you
Find garages →Book online in minutes
Vauxhall Corsa vs Volkswagen Polo FAQ
Which is more reliable, the Vauxhall Corsa or Volkswagen Polo?
Based on MOT data, the Volkswagen Polo is more reliable with a 78% pass rate, compared to 77% for the Vauxhall Corsa.
Which is cheaper to run?
At 8,000 miles per year, the Vauxhall Corsa costs around £1,195 in fuel, while the Volkswagen Polo costs around £1,195. The Vauxhall Corsa is cheaper on fuel. Insurance, depreciation, and repair costs also factor into total running costs.
Should I buy a Vauxhall Corsa or Volkswagen Polo?
The Volkswagen Polo comes out slightly ahead with a 78% MOT pass rate versus 77% for the Vauxhall Corsa. Both cars are competitive in this segment, but the Volkswagen Polo has a small edge on reliability. Consider test driving both before making your decision.
Vauxhall Corsa Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Volkswagen Polo Running Costs
Full breakdown of annual costs, reliability, and MOT data
Related Comparisons
Other popular head-to-head comparisons
Compare Different Cars
Want to compare different cars? Enter any two reg plates for a personalised side-by-side comparison.
Compare Any Two Cars