Milton Keynes – The Volkswagen Polo, an enduring symbol of automotive excellence, has started 2025 on a high note. Honoured as the “Best Car of the Half Century” at the New Car World Championships, the iconic supermini cements its legacy as a global best-seller and a favourite among millions of motorists worldwide.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Polo’s accolade comes as no surprise. With over 20 million units sold across six generations since its debut in 1975, the Polo has evolved from a simple city runabout into a sophisticated, borderline premium-quality family hatchback. Today, measuring over four metres in its latest Mk 6 form, it perfectly marries practicality with modernity—a transformation that reflects its journey from humble beginnings to a leader in its segment.
The prestigious award, a highlight of the annual British Motor Show at the Farnborough International Exhibition and Conference Centre (15–17 August), was determined by a panel of esteemed motoring experts. The judging cohort, which included car designers, engineers, industry insiders, motorsport legends, and respected journalists, lauded the Polo’s consistent performance and timeless appeal. Mike Rutherford, the automotive journalist who founded the awards, summed it up best:
“The 20 million motorists who’ve been buying Volkswagen Polos since 1975 can’t be wrong. It’s been the most consistently credible supermini of the past 50 years and has repeatedly hit the sweet spot in terms of design, overall dimensions, build quality, competitive retail pricing, efficiency and low standing and running costs.”
Rutherford’s assessment underscores the Polo’s practical appeal—a car that offers affordability and durability without sacrificing quality. His comments highlight the vehicle’s evolution: from a basic urban commuter to a robust, technologically advanced, and versatile hatchback that meets the needs of budget-conscious drivers without compromising on style or performance.
Rod McLeod, Director of Volkswagen UK, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the award is a fitting tribute to the Polo’s storied heritage. “We are delighted to see the Polo claim this award; it’s a great way to kick off its 50th anniversary celebrations. The Polo is not just a pioneer in terms of technical innovations, but also represents affordable mobility for all,” McLeod said. “These attributes and values are as relevant and important to customers today as they were half a century ago, and we believe that’s why our evergreen supermini has stood the test of time.”
From its role as a trailblazer in the automotive industry to its impressive run in motorsport—with the Polo R WRC clinching four consecutive World Rally Championship titles since 2013—the Polo has continually demonstrated its mettle. In the UK alone, Volkswagen’s strong performance is evident in the registration figures: 166,304 new Volkswagen passenger vehicles were recorded in 2024, making it the best-selling brand for the fourth consecutive year, with nearly 29,000 Polos sold last year.
As the British Motor Show approaches, enthusiasts and potential buyers alike will have the opportunity to see first-hand why the Polo has captivated a global audience for half a century. Its storied history, combined with its relentless innovation and real-world practicality, ensures that the Volkswagen Polo remains a benchmark in the supermini category—a true icon of automotive longevity and excellence.
