Based on the Polo hatchback, the Ameo is VW’s first car developed primarily for the Indian market.

Styling on the whole is near identical to the Polo though the lower roofline gives a better flow to the sedan shape. The boot though looks very upright and truncated.

The Ameo is only available with a 1.2-litre MPI petrol motor with the updated 1.5-litre diesel only to join the line-up around Diwali.

Handling isn’t the most rewarding though the suspension can make short work of the worst of Indian roads.

The interior of the Ameo is near identical to the Polo’s with build quality a big leap ahead of the competitors.

The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol motor is adequate for the compact sedan though it lacks refinement.

Small square tail-lamps do little to take away the abruptness of the boot.

15-inch alloy wheels standard on top trim.

Higher trim variants get slim LED turn indicators on the wing mirrors.

The Volkswagen Ameo is the second model after the Hyundai Xcent to get rear air-con vents.

Headroom and thigh support in the Ameo are not too bad, but legroom is a fair way short of what you get in most of the competition.

The 330-litre boot is 77 litres short of the segment best.

The front seats are nice and supportive with upholstery quality good enough for higher segment cars.

Front centre armrest doubles up as a closed storage space.

Big, clear dials are easy to read. Centrally located MID houses the fuel gauge, odometer and outside temperature readout.

Climate control just one of the many features packed into the Ameo.

The touchscreen infotainment system, while a bit small, comes equipped with Bluetooth, USB, SD card reader and MirrorLink.