Polo Mk3 Series II

VW claimed that 60 per cent of the Polo facelift was new.

Certainly the redesigned nose, tail-lights, tailgate, bumpers and interior were obvious, but underneath the reshaped bonnet now lay a smaller heart – a 1.4-litre 16-valve four-cylinder unit.

It produced the same power but less torque than before and still required premium unleaded fuel.

All up, the ride and cornering – though better – still trailed the class leaders, but comfort and refinement levels had improved.

Leather and heated seats became an option, while fog lights were added to the long list of standard features.

This car was officially marketed as the “Polo 16V”.