VW Eos Bluemotion

Making greener versions of already frugal models is a logical step – and this new Eos BlueMotion demands no compromises of the driver. You notice the taller gearing, but ultimately it suits the VW’s relaxed and refined nature. As ever, build is great and the only fly in the ointment is the amount of kit you get for the price.

It might be a little difficult to get the best out of Skoda’s new eco-minded Fabia – so is this extra frugal version of the VW Eos any better?

The sun-seeking coupé-cabriolet is the latest model in the German maker’s range to be offered in BlueMotion trim. That means it features stop-start, longer gearing, regenerative braking and low-rolling-resistance tyres. When fitted to this 138bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel model, the tweaks hike fuel economy to an impressive 58.9mpg on the combined cycle. It also puts out only 129g/km of CO2 – which means a road tax bill of £90 a year, as well as a competitive tax rate for company car users.

So the Eos looks good on paper. But how does it shape up on the road? Well, the diesel engine is very quiet and smooth, and provides peppy performance – although you do notice the long gearing. Even so, with 320Nm of torque, the TDI unit has plenty of grunt and flexibility, which should mean owners will be able to get close to VW’s fuel economy claims.

Aiding this is the unobtrusive stop-start system – as you come to a halt at traffic lights, you barely notice it cutting the engine’s power, then firing it up again. The long gearing means this Eos excels on motorways.

And although the folding metal roof can be a little creaky over bumps when it’s fixed in place, when you fold it – a process that takes just a flick of a switch – there’s very little in the way of buffeting. So high-speed cruising is very relaxing. Factor in composed handling and a comfortable ride, and you’ve got a car that’s easy and enjoyable to drive, whether around town or on the open road.

The Eos falls down slightly on its standard equipment list – it’s short on goodies when compared to newer rivals such as the Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet. This SE model costs £24,570, but Bluetooth phone connectivity, cruise control, climate control and an iPod dock are all optional extras. Nevertheless, it should hold on to its value well, and as an all-rounder the Eos still makes a great deal of sense.