2016 Volkswagen Polo Beats quick spin review

What is it?

A special-edition version of Volkswagen's Polo hatchback produced in conjunction with Beats Electronics, an increasingly popular headphone and speaker brand founded by rap producer Dr Dre.

What does it say about me?

That you want a little car with soul, a model that offers something different to regular, run-of-the-mill city cars. You might also want a car with a better-than-average stereo system, but aren't keen to try aftermarket options.

What doesn't it say about me?

That you're a counter-cultural rebel in the same vein as Dr Dre and his N.W.A. mates from Compton, California. This is a pleasant little car

Who else is buying it?

You and 399 other people, at least locally. The Polo Beats is limited to 400 Australian examples, as well as thousands more sold overseas.

What colours does it come in?

It looks fresh in red, with contrasting door mirrors, B-pillar badges, darkened taillights and vinyl side graphics that help this limited-edition model stand out from the crowd.

If it were a celebrity, who would it be?

Australia's own Harvey Streten, aka Flume, a regular-looking young bloke with a passion for music that pushed his remarkable work around the world.

Why would I buy it?

Because you love music and want to experience it in a fuller way than most compact cars allow. And because Beats is a hip' n' happening brand many young folks want to be associated with.

Will it let me down?

Probably not. And it's not available with a diesel engine...

Does it cost too much?

Priced from $21,990 in manual form, the Beats costs $2000 more than the Regular Polo 81TSI Comfortline on which it is based - that's not too bad, considering the extra features it brings.

Any gadgets I can brag about?

The stereo is the headline item - an upgraded 300 watt system with an amplifier that drives twin tweeters, speakers, woofers and a stand-alone subwoofer that bring a much punchier sound than you might normally find in a Polo. Your even get a pair of premium Beats headphones to use when you're not in the car.

What's the stereo like?

I thought you'd never ask! It's a meaty, throbbing setup that's significantly richer than most small cars. I listened to favourite albums from Frank Ocean, Chance the Rapper, Anderson .Paak and Daft Punk, finding the stereo to be muddier than I hoped, and a little heavy on the bass for my ears. That said, it's a better setup than you'll find in any other new car for this money, and a great starting place for budding audiophiles.

Will I get a deal?

That's never a guarantee on limited-edition models, though it can't hurt to ask.

Will it get me noticed?

I did get stopped by young blokes in a car park asking about the Beats logo on the side of the car, so there is a chance fans of the brand will pick it as something out of the ordinary.

How's the cabin ambience?

Better than a normal Polo, thanks to sports seats with Alcantara side bolsters, red-stitched seat belts, special sill plates and leatherette door trims that help it stand out.

Does it go?

Volkswagen's 81kW 1.2-litre turbo motor offers adequate amount of zip, but it won't set your hair on fire.

Does it like corners?

The Polo is a nimble little number that represents one of the better-handling cars in its class, responding well to a spirited punt.

Would you buy one?

You know what, I reckon I would. I thought this car was a cynical marketing exercise at first, but you do get a decent amount of extras for the additional $2000 over a regular Polo.

What else should I consider?

The Mazda2 represents a spunky and polished city car option, as does Holden's much cheaper Spark. You could also consider Renault's Clio, but none of them have a stereo quite like Volkswagen's machine.

The Spin

"Volkswagen Australia's smallest car now makes the biggest noise."

The Translation

Now. With. Attitude.

2016 Volkswagen Polo Beats pricing and specification:

Price: From $21,990 drive-away

Engine: 1.2-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol

Power: 81kW at 4600-5600rpm

Torque: 175Nm at 1400-4000rpm

Transmission: Six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive

Fuel use: 4.8L/100km