Volkswagen Polo vs Toyota Yaris Cross

What's the difference?

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Volkswagen Polo
Volkswagen Polo

$30,790 - $41,790

2026 price

Toyota Yaris Cross
Toyota Yaris Cross

$31,790 - $41,280

2026 price

Summary

2026 Volkswagen Polo
2026 Toyota Yaris Cross
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 3, 1.0L

Inline 3, 1.5L
Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency
5.4L/100km (combined)

3.8L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Too expensive, not enough kit for the money
  • Some turbo/DCT lag
  • Firm ride on less-than-smooth roads

  • Cabin is ageing
  • Missing some features for price point
  • Model-year upgrades are too modest
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 Toyota Yaris Cross Summary

Toyota’s smallest SUV has picked up a few subtle styling and tech tweaks as part of a minor model year update. 

It goes up against familiar names like the Nissan Juke and Kia Stonic in the light SUV segment, as well as hybrid rivals like the newer Suzuki Fronx and Chery Tiggo 4. 

But does the Toyota still have enough appeal this late in its life cycle?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Volkswagen Polo 2026 Toyota Yaris Cross

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