The fifth generation Volkswagen Polo has very quickly established itself as a favourite with British buyers and used examples retain their value well.

Stepping out of the shadow of the iconic Golf takes some doing but this was the first Polo in a long time that did just that.

Here’s what to look for when tracking down a used model.

What You Get
Both three and five-door MK5 Polo models followed on with the styling theme debuted on the Scirocco coupe and subsequently adapted for the MkVI Golf.

The thin grille serves to visually widen and lower the car, giving it a more planted and sporty appearance.

The lines are typical Volkswagen, clean and unfussy, the design team steering well clear of the gimmicky styling devices we see elsewhere in the market.

There’s certainly nothing to offend traditional Polo customers but compared to some of the sector’s more adventurous styling efforts, the overall look might be too reserved for some tastes.

The car certainly looks compact and cohesive but it’s also substantially larger than its predecessor.

What To Look For
Ensure that servicing has been attended to diligently.

Check the car’s specification carefully, as some of the more desirable features, like air conditioning, weren’t standard on lower spec cars.

Check the servicing has been done on the button, especially for BlueMotion and GTI models.

Some minor electrical niggles have been reported but on the whole it’s a solid and dependable vehicle.

In fact, the 2010-11 cars scored the lowest number of faults in the German TuV used car reliability test.

Overall
The Mk5 Polo makes a genuinely solid used buy, presentable at any social occasion and with a decent selection of used stock available.

Unless you want the most sparkling driving experience in its class, it’s hard to see how you could be disappointed.

We’d look to a BlueMotion diesel if you’re covering bigger miles or a 1.2 TSI if your car is to be just a social, shopping and school run scoot.

Don’t overlook the GTI if you’re looking for something with more edge to its character.