AS the first small car from VW's modern era, the Polo has a lot of experience built in, but today its now pushing up a sector in terms of size. A sort of middle-age spread.

The five-door SEL we tried shows how the market and technology has changed since the first Polo went on sale in 1975.

That's 40 years ago -and a lot has happened in that time.

Technology has advanced so much that the car's 70mpg average would have been unimaginable with the first generation Polo, while its growth in size is not down to a lazy lifestyle but rather a life-saving style.

Simply, bigger cars protect occupants better and the need to build in deformable structures, fit strong anti-intrusion beams and a plethora of airbags not to mention the bigger users of today has dictated the upsizing.

The Polo continues with three-door or five-door styles, a big variety of engines and transmissions and we picked the best selling 1.4 diesel in a popular trim level from the 20-plus models in the range.

You get a reasonable amount for your money with a comprehensive info-tainment package which was upgraded on the test car, powered windows all round, effective air conditioned climate control, and a really impressive powertrain.

The engine is a very impressive performer, pulling away quickly and strongly through the gears with a modest note and the gearing is long so it will free-wheel very easily.

We consistently saw fuel economy in the mid-60s and sometimes it stayed the other side of 70mpg so our average was a real achievement, helped no doubt by the stop/start ignition.

The steering let it turn on a dinner plate but it didn't make a meal of slowing or stopping and did so easily and quickly while the parking brake was also very effective.

Suspension was noticeably firm, even bumpy over some roads, though it was more composed and pleasant on major roads. There was some body roll on tight turns but it handled well with a trace of understeer on sweeping curves through the countryside.

Secondary controls were mostly grouped on the column, with some switches for lights and the windows on the fascia and doors.

Speed cruise control and sound system rockers were on the wheel-spokes along with the multi-menu buttons. Heating and ventilation was very good, quickly adjusting as desired, pushing out the air quietly and strongly.

Oddments room was good throughout and the boot held from 280 litres with seats used to 952 when folded, with a low lip to the bottom of the fifth door. Access for driver and passengers was good and the room was adequate inside.

Visibility was very good. Big windows, low waistline, bright lights and effective wash and wipe front and back, meant you had no real blindspots and it was a delight to park in a tight space.

Despite the three cylinders it did not lack much in refinement and it bowled along nicely, economically and with a lot of composure.