VW Polo 1.4-litre TDi Bluemotion
This Looks to be a Real Life Green Motoring Alternative
European car-makers are trying to do their bit for the environment and now it is the turn of German maker Volkswagen with the Polo 1.4TDi Bluemotion.
Eco-friendly
So what has changed from the normal Polo to make this version eco-friendly?
The VW engineers have tweaked the body and chassis of the car, however the majority of the work has been undertaken on the engine. On paper this vehicle is not only a good city car, but a brilliant all-rounder with its improved fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.
The Bluemotion Polo has been given a faired-in grille, smaller mirrors and a rear window spoiler, which should help to improve its aero dynamics and reduce drag and in turn improve fuel economy.
It is also fitted with skinny high profile tyres so that this version of the Polo has reduced rolling resistance, which keep CO2 down and improves fuel economy and tyre wear.
Interior
Inside the Polo there are no real significant changes – drivers would not guess that they are driving an eco-friendly car. The plastics are solidly made and look to be of high quality while all the shut lines are neatly finished and there are no gaping panels.
The Polo is classed as a supermini but it is a practical car as you can seat four adults in the car in relative comfort.
Load Space
Stowage space is pretty impressive for such a small vehicle and is much bigger when compared to some of its main rivals. You can easily lay a set of golf clubs in the boot while there is a wide selection of cubby-holes for your loose change and other nik-naks.
On the Road
On test the Volkswagen Polo 1.4TDi Bluemotion performed well
A perfect companion when you are driving in and around town as the ride and comfort from the car is close to perfect as the suspension soaked up the potholes and uneven surfaces that were on the test route.
There was a downside, the power steering is over assisted which translates to the steering feeling vague when you are on the open road. However when at the national speed limit in the UK there was little wind noise inside the cabin
The 1.4-litre TDI diesel engine has an output of 80PS and has 144nm of torque between 1800-2200rpm, which allows you to overtake slower traffic with ease, this is mated to a smooth shifting five-speed manual gearbox.
According to the maker the Bluemotion variant of the Polo returns 74.3mpg and emits 99g/km of CO2. But the sticking point could be the price, it starts from £12,125 in the UK while the road tax for a year will cost you just £35.
Not only on paper is this car a good idea it also works in reality too.
