#2 of 50 · Hatchbacks & small cars
Volkswagen Polo: importing one from Japan to Ireland
The second most-imported car from Japan, and cheap to run.
Why Irish buyers choose it
The Polo is a small, well-built supermini that suits city driving and first-time buyers. Japanese auctions offer a steady supply of 1.0 and 1.2 TSI Polos with low mileage, often from older owners who drove short distances. With 2,588 imported from Japan in the first nine months of 2025, it is the second-biggest seller through the Japan channel.
Real auction prices in Japan
| Year | Sold | Median price | Median km |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 12 | €10,646 | 6k km |
| 2024 | 27 | €9,293 | 14k km |
| 2023 | 35 | €9,210 | 14k km |
| 2022 | 51 | €7,707 | 23k km |
| 2021 | 91 | €6,016 | 34k km |
| 2020 | 63 | €6,038 | 40k km |
| 2019 | 201 | €5,576 | 43k km |
| 2018 | 145 | €4,563 | 57k km |
| 2017 | 231 | €3,589 | 60k km |
| 2016 | 215 | €3,005 | 66k km |
Auction hammer prices in Japan, before shipping, duty, VAT, VRT and fees.
Most compared with
Importing it to Ireland
Small TSI engines sit in low CO₂ bands, keeping VRT down. As a European-built car, the Polo pays 10% customs duty.
European-built: 10% customs duty applies. Why? VAT at 23% and VRT apply to every import.
What to check
Look for cars with full auction-sheet grades of 4 or above; small cars used in cities can carry minor bumper scuffs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Volkswagen Polo cost at auction in Japan?
The median auction price over the last three months was €2,643, with most selling between €1,230 and €4,363, before shipping, taxes and fees.
Is there import duty on a Volkswagen Polo from Japan?
Yes. It is built in Europe, so 10% customs duty applies, plus 23% VAT and VRT.
What is the Volkswagen Polo most compared with?
Irish buyers most often compare it with the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Suzuki Swift and Mazda2.