VW Polo Bluemotion 1.2 TDi

it’s the car that kick-started the green revolution! Volkswagen’s Polo BlueMotion is now in its second generation, and in a bid to stay ahead of the game, it has more eco tweaks than ever.

Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre diesel – shared with SEAT’s Ibiza Ecomotive – using low-viscosity oil and energy-saving ancillaries. This is mated to a five-speed box with long ratios, while stop/start and regenerative braking feature. There’s also a slippery bodykit, low resistance tyres, lowered sports suspension and 14-inch lightweight alloys. The result is 91g/km and 80.1mpg.

As with the Golf BlueMotion, the Polo is available as a three or five-door, while the cabin is solid and classy. Sadly, the driving experience is a letdown. The three-cylinder diesel has to be worked hard, and is gruff at high revs. Handling is safe and predictable, but stiff suspension hampers ride comfort on bumpy roads. The Polo’s amazing economy comes at a price.

Rating: ***