VW's frugal BlueMotion Polo for SA

  •  Updated infotainment system
  •  Frugal BlueMotion units
  •  New TSI and TDI

CAPE TOWN - Volkswagen has expanded its best-selling Polo range in South Africa with the addition of two new frugal engines.

The new engines (a 1.0 litre petrol turbo and 1.4 litre turbodiesel) fall under VW's BlueMotion sub-brand. Both engines are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

Wheels24's Sean Parker will be on the launch in Gauteng later in August. Remember to read his impressions of the new BlueMotion models and the manual Polo GTI.

NEW PETROL UNIT

The new three-cylinder 1.0 litre TSI turbocharged engine is capable of 70kW/160Nm. Fuel consumption is rated at a claimed 4.2 litres/100km.

The TSI Bluemotion can reach a top speed of 191km/h.

DIESEL POWER

The 1.4 TDI can be specified with two outputs 55kW/77kW. The 55kW unit has 210Nm and can reach a top speed of 173 km/h.

The higher power diesel version is capable of 77kW/250Nm. It reaches 100km/h in 9.9 secs and on to a top speed of 194km/h. Fuel consumption is rated at a claimed 4.1 litre/100km.

HOW DID THEY GET IT SO FRUGAL?

The Bluemotion units have a lowered the ride height and improved aerodynamics for radiator grille and underbody compared to standard Polos.

The models use low-rolling resistance tyres and longer gear ratios in the upper transmission stages. A stop/start system, regenerative braking and a gear-change indicator for the driver are standard to help conserve fuel.

UPDATED INFOTAINMENT

Volkswagen says the infotainment centre has been "re-conceptualised", offered as an optional extra is the media unit with a 14.7cm touchscreen. This system offers functions such a proximity sensor (menus can be accessed by hand gestures).

A connectivity package adds Bluetooth connectivity for a cellphone and audio streaming as well as a USB port.

STICK-SHIFT FOR GTI

The Polo GTI, launched in April 2015, can be fitted with a six-speed manual from August. At the time it was only available with the seven-speed DSG transmission.

Both transmissions have the same 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds. One notable difference is the manual derivative has a higher torque output of 320Nm. The DSG could 'only' handle 280Nm. 

Prices

The new Polo is sold with a standard three-year or 45 000km service plan, three-year or 120 000km warranty and a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty. Service intervals 15 000km.