Volkswagen Polo, The satisfaction of German engineering.

My first car was Hyundai i20 asta 2011(diesel) model which I drove for 70000 kms. The second hatchback that I was to purchase had to be a driver's car which could ignite passion for long drives( I had a penchant for traversing the gorgeous Himalayan valleys). So the first requirement was a safe car with a subtle driving experience. It was October 2014 and the connoisseur within me struck the deal with the sheer capability of this peppy petrol German beauty. I still remember the moment I test drove the Volkswagen polo. Its flat bottom adjustable electronic steering provided me with a buttery driving experience. And the superb comfort while driving, due to height adjustable driver's seat with nice lumbar support added flavour. Moreover the engine despite producing just 74 bhp power horse was peppy. The engine is three cylinder which is not as smooth as that of its competitors in the first gear. But the moment I pushed the second and third gears, its significantly different roar and wonderful pickup amazed me. The final decision was the result of the thud sound with which its door was shut enlightening me of its solid build quality. It has been more than four years and the odometer now has crossed 65000 kms with companionship throughout the valleys of Uttarakhand. As far as looks are concerned, Polo is simple yet elegant. The paint quality is far superior than its competitors. The front fascia is typical German, minimalistic yet classy. DRLs are a missed opportunity. Side lines are minimal and the car looks simple from behind. The quality of plastics used inside the car is soft and luxurious(dashboard). The piano finish material used on steering wheel, gear knob and dashboard adds to the luxury feeling. Leather finish instead of using fabrics on the door handrests could have been better. Overall the quality of interiors is good. Regarding the service and maintenance of the car I have had got it serviced only four times while the odometer shows 65000 km. Its because of a service interval of 15000 kms. Maruti and other competitors strive for a lesser service interval. The engine still has the spark as earlier. No AC problem till date. Just one steering rod has to be changed which costs 17000 in the next servicing(courtesy Indian roads, even Honda amaze and i20's had to be changed in 60000 kms). Therefore it can be said that maintenance of the car is hassle free and the cost required is similar to its counterparts. Finally, I will summarise pros and cons. Pros: superb build quality, nice interiors, fun to drive(perfect driver's car), hassle free maintenance. Cons: Three cylinder engine, low ground clearance, hump in the rear due to which suitable for two adults (in all European cars). #Note: The same platform has been used to build the car which was once used for Audi A1.