Honda Fit vs Volkswagen Polo
Value retention, real cost and monthly money, compared on the same 2026 South African data.
The Volkswagen Polo wins on money kept: 72% retained after three years vs 66%, worth about R 14 272 at trade-in time.
Both curves, one chart
Head to head
| Fit | Polo | |
|---|---|---|
| New price (from) | R 383 400 | R 373 800 |
| ±Monthly instalment | R 6 701/m | R 6 533/m |
| Retained after 1 year | 82% | 85% |
| Retained after 3 years | 66% | 72% |
| Value after 3 years | R 254 654 | R 268 927 |
| Lost to depreciation (3y) | R 128 746 | R 104 873 |
| Value after 5 years | R 201 712 | R 222 698 |
| Our tier | Mainstream | Strong mainstream |
Honda Fit →
The Fit took over from the Jazz in June 2021, keeping the same practical packaging and adding one of SA's most affordable full hybrids. The 1.5 e:HEV suits city driving while the petrol CVT versions carry the volume. It holds value well by hatchback standards.
Known for: clever packaging and frugal hybrid option
Volkswagen Polo →
Built in Kariega for local sale and export, the Polo has been SA's benchmark compact hatch since the Playa era of the mid-1990s. GTI versions carry a strong enthusiast following, and used values hold up better than almost anything else in the class.
Known for: class-leading resale and gti heritage
Common questions
Which holds value better, the Honda Fit or the Volkswagen Polo?
The Volkswagen Polo. It keeps about 72% of its price after three years against 66% for the Honda Fit, a gap of 6 points.
Which is cheaper to own over three years?
Depreciation is the biggest ownership cost. The Honda Fit loses about R 128 746 over three years and the Volkswagen Polo loses about R 104 873. Fuel, insurance and servicing can narrow or widen that, but the depreciation gap is the number to start from.
What do they cost per month?
On typical finance (10% deposit, 72 months, 11.75%), the Honda Fit runs about R 6 701 per month and the Volkswagen Polo about R 6 533, before fees and insurance.
Keep going
Modelled estimates on a retail basis; spec levels and real transaction prices vary.