What's the news?
Volkswagen has announced prices for the Polo BlueGT, a car that combines the efficiency of its BlueMotion models with the thrills of GTI-badged cars. Order books are now open with the three-door BlueGT available from £17,400 and the five-door coming in at £18,020.
Exterior
The BlueGT runs 15mm lower than standard versions of the Polo, on multi-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels. Styling is inspired by the GTI and the rear spoiler, rear bumper with diffuser, plus front bumper with LED daytime running lights are all borrowed from the sportier Polo. These touches are offset by side sills and front windscreen rain channels from the BlueMotion model. GT badging and a black-painted front grille and black door mirror caps complete the look.
Interior
The interior of the BlueGT is equally GTI-inspired with the black roof lining and instruments from the £19,980 pocket rocket carried over. Bespoke sports seats are joined by a BlueGT-badged steering wheel and the standard specification is impressive including a DAB radio with iPod connectivity, cruise control and Bluetooth phone connection.
Mechanicals
Key to the BlueGT's seemingly diametrically opposed traits is Volkswagen's new 1.4-litre TSI engine. The 140hp/250Nm EA211 engine features cylinder-on-demand technology to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions while remaining powerful. This means that, while the BlueGT can spring from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 130mph, it can also return 61.4mpg and 107g/km - comparable to some diesel versions of the Polo.
Power is channelled to the road via a standard fit XDS electronic differential lock.
Anything else?
A unique exterior paint, 'Blue Silk', is available as an option and customers can choose between six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG transmissions, both of which deliver the same emissions output.
Paul Healy - 19 Oct 2012