01 Mar 06
Volkswagen debuted the Polo BlueMotion in Geneva.
This is an economy-biased version of the 1.4-litre TDI, with its 80bhp/144lb ft three-cylinder engine giving an excellent 72.4mpg and reduced emissions, thanks to a particulate filter. Carbon dioxide emissions are down to a tax-dodging 103g/km - better than the hybrid Toyota Prius - yet it still manages 0-60mph in a perfectly respectable 12.8 seconds and a top speed of 110mph. This has been achieved by giving gears three to five longer ratios and aerodynamic enhancements to the body including front and rear spoilers.
The BlueMotion (thank goodness Volkswagen resisted the notion to call it GreenMotion) will go on sale in Germany, Austria and Switzerland this summer, but UK sales haven't yet been confirmed. Bring it over, Volkswagen, please - and make it cheap.
