Volkswagen’s Polo BlueMotion was the first five-seater in the world to consume less than 4.0 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. Since then an entire range of BlueMotion vehicles has evolved.

Volkswagen Group South Africa is now presenting two of its key high-volume models in its range with BlueMotion derivatives. This package includes new common rail TDI engines, recovery of braking energy by regenerative braking, a Stop-Start system and refined aerodynamic components.

With combined fuel consumption values of 3.4 L/100km (Polo) and 3.8 L/100km (Golf), both these cars are taking centre stage as the most fuel-efficient models in their classes.

Each of the new BlueMotion models sets a benchmark for fuel economy and emissions in its segment. The Polo BlueMotion, has a combined fuel consumption of just 3.4 L/100km (equivalent to 89 g/km CO2). Volkswagen’s plans are for the Polo BlueMotion to become the “3-litre fuel economy car” of the modern era and the most economical five-seater in the world. Its 45-litre fuel tank has a potential driving range of nearly 1 200 km.

Only marginally less economical than the Polo is the new Golf BlueMotion. Thanks to a fuel consumption of just 3.8 L/100km and an emissions value of 99 g/km CO2, the Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion is the most fuel-efficient car in its class. It has a theoretical driving range of approximately 1 300 km on its 55-litre tank.

The BlueMotion Technologies aboard the two economy cars consist of a number of high-tech components and efficiency solutions. Building the foundation for the extremely low fuel consumption and emissions values of these cars are their new common rail TDI engines with modified engine management software and reduced idling speed. At the heart of the Polo BlueMotion is a 55 kW / 180 Nm, 1.2-litre TDI with three cylinders, while the Golf is powered by a 77 kW / 250 Nm, 1.6-litre TDI with four cylinders.

A gear-shift indicator integrated in the instrument cluster shows the most energy-efficient gear for the current driving conditions. Other BlueMotion features include recovery of braking energy (regenerative braking), a Stop-Start system, low rolling resistance tyres, special lightweight and aerodynamic wheels, lowered suspension (Golf) as well as sporty design modifications and a customised interior.

Prices include a 3-year/120 000km warranty. A 5-year/60 000km service plan and/or maintenance plain are available as options.

Only a couple of days ago Volkswagen took the covers off its new Polo GTI and now, just a couple of weeks away from the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the covers have come off the new CrossPolo.

The vehicle is essentially the five-door Polo with a raised ride height and a rugged all-terrain look. In Europe, buyers will be able to chose from a total of three petrol and three common rail TDI turbo-diesel engines, three of which can be equipped with an optional seven-speed DSG dual clutch transmission. In South African however, the CrossPolo is expected to be offered with one engine only, that being the capable 1,6-litre TDI engine with 77 kW and 250 N.m of torque.

Key design elements include the unique bumpers, finished in an anthracite color and fitted with fog-lights and larger intakes. Moving to the sides, the CrossPolo also gets black wheelarch extensions, new side sills, and 17 inch alloy wheels.

The rugged theme continues inside the cabin, with two-tone fabrics including an anthracite color, a black webbed structure for some of the trim, perforated leather on the steering wheel, and a metal finish for the pedals.

Both the Polo GTI and CrossPolo will make their world debut in Geneva on March 2, expanding the Polo lineup to four models of: standard Polo, BlueMotion, GTI and CrossPolo. The BlueMotion Polo may not be headed for South Africa, but Polo GTI and CrossPolo should arrive later this year.

Adapted from MotorAuthority