BlueMotion represents the most efficient and economical
vehicle in each of Volkswagen’s car ranges. Set
to make its debut on the Polo, the BlueMotion brand will
soon expand with the announcement that the Passat BlueMotion
is to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
Applied to the Polo, BlueMotion comprises modifications
to an already efficient diesel engine mated to a low kerb
weight, improved aerodynamics and longer gearing. The
result is an official fuel consumption figure of over
72 mpg, a potential range in excess of 700-miles and a
mere 102 g/km of CO2.
The Polo BlueMotion throws efficiency into sharp focus.
At its heart is an advanced
80 PS 1.4-litre, three-cylinder TDI engine fitted with
electronically controlled, high-pressure direct injection.
A variable geometry turbocharger is added to provide high
levels of torque from just above idling speeds and improve
responses. The modifications increase the engine’s
output and overall efficiency to allow greater performance
while simultaneously using less fuel.
Continuing the theme are the Polo BlueMotion’s external
modifications. Evolved through work in the wind tunnel
the unique alterations improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Function effectively dictates the Polo’s form. A
unique front bumper sits below a re-designed grille section
to reduce drag. At the rear a pronounced spoiler mounted
on the trailing edge of the rear window smoothes airflow
further. Finally, a set of 14-inch ‘Jerez’
lightweight alloy wheels sit at each corner fitted with
165/70 tyres that reduce rolling resistance. In total
the Polo BlueMotion weighs 1,084 kg.
The weight saving measures don’t come at the expense
of safety or comfort. The Polo BlueMotion is fitted with
twin front and side airbags for the driver and front seat
passenger, ABS with brake assist and ISOFIX preparation
as standard. Fresh, colourful new fabrics and finishes
unique to the Polo BlueMotion join the cool blue interior
lighting to help distance it further from the standard
car. The simple, concise dials are intersected by a multifunction
computer behind a chunky four-spoke steering wheel. A
radio CD player is joined by speed sensitive power steering
and central locking.
Despite its keen focus on efficiency the Polo BlueMotion
remains a usable everyday car. It will accelerate from
0 to 62 mph in 12.8 seconds before reaching a maximum
of 109 mph all while returning an official 102 g/km of
CO2 and a potential combined fuel consumption figure of
72.4 mpg.
By virtue of its 45-litre fuel tank the Polo BlueMotion
is granted a range in excess of 700-miles, making the
trip from London to the south coast of France possible
using only a single tank of diesel.
The Polo BlueMotion is set to arrive in the UK this summer
with prices due to be announced closer to launch.
