IF you're the type of person who likes to play safe in almost everything you do and are looking for a small, reliable new motor then the Volkswagen stable is worth looking at.
I've never thought the German company produces the most exciting cars around but I can't fault it for build quality, durability, safety and reasonable running costs.
The Polo supermini is one of VW's most enduring offerings after 30 years on sale and the latest version, which went on sale in the UK last June, was given a major facelift outside, inside and under the bonnet.
It is slightly longer than the previous Polo model which has resulted in more legroom in the back and the increased wheelbase has improved its roadholding.
A new V-shaped grille is probably the most dramatic exterior change in styling plus new lights and it has a more steeply raked rear end which I think makes it a bit sportier looking.
Interior changes include a completely redesigned instrument panel and new steering wheel, a small compartment on top of the dashboard which can be used to store spare change or parking tickets.
One aspect I particularly liked is the introduction of blue instrument lighting which makes everything stand out clearly. I'm slightly colour blind and hate the red against black dials on the majority of cars. Well done VW.
All new Polo models have been given a rake and reach adjustable steering wheel which is a great benefit when you are trying to find the most comfortable driving position.
My test car, a five-door 1.4 80bhp diesel - one of the new engines on offer - was surprisingly lively considering it fires on three cylinders only.
The major bonus is its frugal use of fuel. VW claims it will return just over 60mpg on a combined run which makes it one of the miost economical cars in its class.
As I said, the performance is good, especially in the mid-gear area with superb pulling power. Top speed is 108mph and the sprint time from 0-62mph comes in at just over 12 seconds.
The ride quality is excellent with just enough stiffness in the suspension to give the Polo decisive cornering ability with little sway plus good ironing out of rough road surfaces.
Road, wind and engine noise are well suppressed through competent soundproofing and the whole motor has a solid and well-built feel.
The Polo comes in four trim levels - E, S, SE and Sport - and the S variant I had on test - which is the biggest seller in the Polo range - has a standard equipment list which includes anti-lock brakes, driver and passenger airbags, power steering, radio/CD, 14in wheels, central locking, immobiliser, semi-automatic air conditioning, front electric windows, body-coloured door mirrors, split folding rear seats and front fog lamps.
Boot space isn't huge but, with the option of folding the seats, getting the weekly shopping on board isn't a problem.
The Polo has been around for a long time and competition in the supermini sector is immense. There are cheaper ones around, but VW quality is well worth taking into account.
FAST FACTS
Volkswagen Polo 1.4 S TDI 5dr
Price: £11,570
Mechanical: 80bhp, 1,422cc, 3cyl diesel engine driving rear wheels via 5spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 108mph
0-62mph: 12.8 secs
Combined mpg: 61.4
Insurance group: 5
CO2 emissions: 124g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 12yrs anti-rust