Economy-minded Polo BlueMotion launched in South Africa
Volkswagen Group South Africa has launched both the Polo and Golf to local markets this week. Both models are equipped with new common rail TDI engines, recovery of braking energy by regenerative systems, a Stop-Start feature and refined aerodynamic body tweaks. The success story of BlueMotion started in 2006 when Volkswagen first launched the Polo BlueMotion. The 9N3 Polo BlueMotion was the first five-seater in the world to consume less than 4.0 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. The Polo BlueMotion (6R) for the South African market costs from R175,400 and is available to order now.
Just as in Europe, the latest eco-Polo has a combined fuel consumption of just 3.4 litres diesel (equivalent to 89g/km CO2) per 100 kilometres. It is eventually aiming 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 kilometres. At the heart of the Polo BlueMotion is a 1.2-litre TDI with three cylinders derived from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder TDI of the new Polo. The BlueMotion’s maximum torque of 180Nm is produced from 2000rpm, with peak power of 55kW produced at 4200rpm.
The new engine and other specific modifications have delivered fuel savings of 0.8 litres per 100 kilometres. This represents a 20% reduction in fuel consumption, from 4.2 to 3.4 litres, compared to conventional 1.6 Polo TDI with 77kW. CO2 emissions are similarly reduced from 109 to 89g/km. The new Polo BlueMotion can sprint to 100km/h from rest in 13.9 seconds, and the top speed of the 1075kg car is 173km/h. Other features developed with economy in mind include low-rolling resistance tyres, lightweight ‘Greenland’ alloy wheels and longer economy-minded gearing. Standard equipment includes unique ‘Power Up’ interior trim, cruise control and multifunction steering wheel.
[Source: Volkswagen South Africa]
