Volkswagen has updated the local Polo range with the introduction of 1.0-litre TSI BlueMotion model (the first BlueMotion to feature TSI petrol technology) as well as a 1.4 turbodiesel engine.
Both are of the three cylinder variety and both promise class-leading technology as well as fuel efficiency.
Considering that the Volkswagen Polo is the second-best-selling passenger car in South Africa, any change to the line-up, is indeed big news.
As is the case with other BlueMotion Volkswagen's the emphasis is on efficiency and fuel economy. By fitting low rolling resistance tyres, sculpting aerodynamics to ensure the slipperiest shape possible with a very narrow engine cooling inlet, the 1.0 TSI BlueMotion promises a combined fuel consumption of just 4.2l/100km and CO2 emissions of as low as 97g/km. Other factors contributing to greater driving economy are the stop/start system, regenerative braking and a gear-change indicator for the driver.
Volkswagen is one of the few manufacturers whose models regularly achieve their claimed fuel consumption, so in this case there's no need to take that claimed consumption with a pinch of salt.
With the addition of a turbocharger, the 1.0-litre triple achieves an outstanding maximum power of 70kW, with a torque pegged at 160Nm. Considering the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder diesel engine it replaces which made 55kW, you'll agree the 70kW is all the more impressive.
Thanks to an ultra-rigid crankcase made of lightweight die-cast aluminium (weight: 15 kg), and its compact construction with three cylinders instead of four, the 1.0 TSI – at 89 kg is around 10 kg lighter than a comparable four-cylinder engine. It also promises to be as smooth as possible in operation, which is not traditionally a three-cylinder trademark, without the need for an engine balancer shaft.
For diesel lovers and hypermilers, the new 1.4-litre three-cylinder oil burner is sure to delight. Down from 1.6-litres in the previous offering, the new engine is available in two states of tune; 55kW and 77kW (identical to the previous model).
Even more prone to sounding and feeling like an elderly tractor, the high-tech three pot in the Polo features a balancer shaft as well as a dual-mass flywheel, to ensure the quietest and smoothest operation. Emissions and fuel consumption have also been reduced, with the 55 kW version sipping fuel at a rate of just 4.1 l/100 km whilst emitting just 108 g/km of CO2.
A standout interior feature the Radio Composition Colour infotainment system with colour touchscreen, CD and MP3 functionality, SD-card and 6-speakers. It also has connectivity package which includes Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phone and audio streaming as well as USB port. An optional Radio Composition Media with 5.8-inch touchscreen is available as well.
Both the new Polo BlueMotion and Polo TDI models are offered with an array of optional convenient and functional features such as Bi-Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights (only available with CrossPolo and BlueMotion derivatives), panoramic sunroof, removable towbar, climatronic air-conditioning, light and vision package (includes auto-dimming interior mirror, rain sensor wipers and low beam assist), park distance control (front and rear), rear view camera ‘Rear Assist’ and cruise control (standard in BlueMotion).
Pricing:
| 1.0 TSI 70 kW BlueMotion | R235,800.00 |
| 1.4 TDI 55 kW Trendline | R223,500.00 |
| 1.4 TDI 77 kW Highline | R252,000.00 |
