Volkswagen Polo vs Hyundai Elexio

What's the difference?

VS
Volkswagen Polo
Volkswagen Polo

$30,790 - $41,790

2026 price

Hyundai Elexio
Hyundai Elexio

$58,990 - $61,990

2026 price

Summary

2026 Volkswagen Polo
2026 Hyundai Elexio
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 3, 1.0L

Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

-
Fuel Efficiency
5.4L/100km (combined)

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Seating
5

0
Dislikes
  • Too expensive, not enough kit for the money
  • Some turbo/DCT lag
  • Firm ride on less-than-smooth roads

  • Slow(ish) DC charging
  • Cabin devoid of buttons
  • Disappearing driver screen
2026 Volkswagen Polo Summary

The Volkswagen Polo is about to turn 30 in Australia but, by 1996, it was already 21-years and three generations old in Europe.

As the least-expensive jumping-on point for the brand here today (RIP VW Up!), the Polo has deftly juggled affordability with the premium pricing that its German engineering demands.

But, at nine-years old, and in an era of newer, hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) and often cheaper alternatives from China and elsewhere, is the ageing Polo as convincing?

We test the mid-spec CityLife to find out.

View full pricing & specs
2026 Hyundai Elexio Summary

There's a hell of a lot riding on the shoulders of the Hyundai Elexio, which is shaping as the brand's best shot to date at taking on Made In China models like the BYD Sealion 7 and Tesla Model Y. 

While the Ioniq family sits atop the EV tree at Hyundai, the Elexio is a very different proposition. It's priced more sharply (the brand is quick to point out that it's only about $8 a week more expensive than a Sealion 7 on a novated lease), and it's the first Hyundai vehicle offered in Australia that's produced in the brand's Chinese factory through its Beijing Hyundai joint venture.

In short, it feels a lot like Hyundai is ready to take on BYD at their own game in Australia.

So, is the Elexio the pick of the Made In China bunch?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Volkswagen Polo 2026 Hyundai Elexio

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