Polo’s petrol prudence

Lower emissions
The first TSI engine arrived in 2006, so 2016 celebrates a decade of engine technology with these three letters. Although not as iconic as ‘GTI’, ‘TSI’ is arguably more important, as its focuses were to improve combustion efficiency, reduce fuel consumption, and lower emissions. The first TSI engines used both a supercharger and a turbocharger, which gave responsiveness all through the rev range, while also delivering decent performance as well as good economy.  Fast forward 10 years, and the TSI technology is well embedded into Volkswagen’s contemporary range of models, as the company shifts away from diesel and announces grand plans for electrification. The much talked-about 20-strong range of electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles which will arrive by 2020 may be a little way off as yet, and with sales of diesel cars slowly falling, petrol-powered cars are selling strongly. So now just might be the right time to introduce fuel-efficient models which need filling up from the green pump.

Fuel-saving technology
The Polo BlueMotion was the first model to showcase VW’s fuel-saving technology, and first appeared in 2006. Powered by a diesel engine, it had a combined cycle fuel economy figure of 74.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 99g/km, it helped set the standard for efficient small cars. A new model in 2010 built on its predecessor’s (small) success and upped the ante further: CO2 emissions were now down to 91g/km, while economy increased to 80.7mpg. A stop/start system and battery regeneration helped drive its efficiency.

Five years later, and with the introduction of the revised fifth‑generation Polo, comes a new Polo BlueMotion. Only this time, it’s a petrol‑powered. Its headline figures of 94g/km of CO2 and combined cycle fuel economy of 68.9mpg may be higher than its immediate diesel predecessor, but petrol power brings fewer NOx emissions and an image more attuned to the current climate. The first Volkswagen BlueMotion model with a petrol engine, the company has since launched a 99g/km Golf BlueMotion model which uses the same engine technology. 

Optimised for efficiency
Stop/start and battery regeneration systems, a heavy-duty starter as well as a battery with improved deep cycle performance are now standard features of all Polos and come under the ‘BlueMotion Technology’ umbrella. Not to be confused with these BlueMotion Technology variants, the ethos behind BlueMotion models is that they are as optimised as they can be in terms of efficiency. Therefore, the Polo BlueMotion TSI sits in VED Band A, and claims the honour of being the cleanest petrol Polo available. 

The turbocharged EU6 three-cylinder 1.0-engine is the newest in the refreshed Polo’s range, too. Developing 94bhp and 160lb ft (118Nm) of torque between 1,500 and 3,500rpm, it has willing performance for a car with environmental credentials. A 0-62mph time of 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 119mph were the preserve of ‘warm’ hatchbacks just a few years ago – let alone economical ones – and shows the speed at which the industry moves with powertrain development.

The new engine is a gem, with very tractable performance from low revs right through the mid-range. A five-speed manual gearbox is standard, and has an enjoyable short-shifting ‘mechanical’ feel like that of the smaller Up city car. As with most three-cylinder units, there’s nice off-beat ‘growl’ under heavy acceleration, but the car is very quiet at cruising speeds.

We didn’t manage to match Volkswagen’s claimed economy figures during our 336‑mile test, recording an average real‑world fuel economy figure of 54.3mpg. The Polo BlueMotion TSI is an easy car to drive with economy in mind, though – there is no ‘eco’ button as the car is as optimised as it can be. A ‘Think Blue. Trainer’ comes as standard as part of the 6.5-inch colour touchscreen ‘Composition Media’ system and encourages more eco-friendly driving through guidance and the analysis of driving patterns. Cruise control and a multifunction computer with eco driving data also aid economy. While it’s not the ultimate in small car fun, the Polo handles nicely, feels light on its feet with nicely-weighted steering, and has generally very good body control.

Aerodynamic body kit
Helping the Polo BlueMotion TSI slip through the air is an aerodynamic body kit, with more drag-friendly front and rear bumpers and side skirts: a larger, more aero-tuned rear spoiler; a faired-in grille; and low rolling resistance 185/60 R15 tyres. Other exterior goodies include front fog lights with static cornering function, and distinctive flower-like 15-inch ‘Buenos Aires’ alloy wheels. Inside, a multifunction steering wheel; manual air conditioning; remote central locking; a front centre armrest; a driver alert system; and ‘Link’ cloth upholstery can be found.

Better value for money this time around, the Polo BlueMotion TSI is based on the entry-level Polo S, but the added kit means it feels far from basic. The quality build helps here of course, with lots of soft-touch plastics and nice finishes dotted around the cabin. Prices start at £14,975 for the three‑door model, with our five-door car coming in at £16,405 with the addition of carpet mats (£85), rear electric windows (£170) and ‘Reflex Silver’ metallic paint (£545).

Sophisticated powertrain
The new petrol-powered Polo BlueMotion makes a lot more sense than the older diesel‑engined model. The more sophisticated powertrain delivers on refinement (suiting the Polo’s premium image better) and offers a far more relaxed driving experience, without sacrificing performance. And while it may not be as parsimonious as its TDI predecessor, economy is good, too. Company car drivers will benefit as well with a lower BIK rate of 15 per cent when compared to diesel-engined Polos. Yes, there is an even cleaner 89bhp, 93g/km 1.4-litre Polo TDI, but with a £2,000 premium over the equivalent five‑door Polo BlueMotion, the sums will need to add up to recoup the initial extra outlay.  

Choice is all in the fiercely-fought small car market, but if an economical and well-specified petrol car appeals, the Polo BlueMotion TSI certainly fits the bill. The discontinuation of the diesel model is the one of the best things about the new car. Frugal, fiscal and now more refined – it’s the car it should have been from the off.

Further Information
www.volkswagen.co.uk