The Polo BlueGT, unveiled in Geneva this week, is the future of green performance in Volkswagen’s petrol range.

Pairing Volkswagen’s efficiency-focused “BlueMotion” brand with the classic GT performance moniker, this new Polo variant brings sharp acceleration and miserly fuel consumption together in one advanced package. Designed to fill the gap between the 77 kW 1.2-litre TSI and 132 kW GTI versions, the Polo BlueGT is powered by a new 1.4-litre TFSI engine that has an output of 103 kW.

The Polo BlueGT accelerates from 0 – 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 210 km/h. Remarkably, for a petrol engine remember, active cylinder management (ACT) and BlueMotion Technology (Stop/Start system, battery regeneration), combine with VW’s 7-speed DSG transmission, mean the BlueGT is capable of 4.5 L/100km and 105g/km CO2. The 6-speed manual equivalent loses out a little, with 4.7 L/100km and a CO2 quotient of 108 g/km – still very good.

The ACT system works by shutting down the second and third cylinders under low and medium engine load. At a constant speed of 50 km/h in third or fourth gear, VW says fuel consumption can drop to just 1.0 L/100km. Even at 70 km/h in fifth gear, average fuel consumption falls by 0.7 L/100km. The system is activated at engine speeds between 1 250 – 4 000 r/min and at torque outputs between 25 – 100 Nm – engine parameters under which Volkswagen reckons accounts for 70 percent of all driving in the European driving cycle.

The Polo BlueGT is distinguished by the new 17-inch alloy wheels, GT logos on the front and rear, new tailpipe trim and the “BlueMotion” badge at the back. It also sports a black-painted grille and R-line front bumper, roof spoiler, rear diffuser and a 15mm lower ride height.

The interior gets the Polo GTI’s instruments, as well as cruise control, black roof liner, a leather covered steering wheel with a “BlueGT” logo and sport front seats. There is also ACT and tire pressure messages shown on the multifunction display.