VW’s “Blue” moniker is applied to the firm’s most fuel-efficient models. The new Polo Blue GT that made its debut today at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, however, manages to combine both low fuel consumption and close to GTi levels of performance – hence the GT in its designation.
Designed to fill the gap between the 1.2 TSI and GTI versions, the Polo Blue GT is powered by a new 1.4-liter TFSI gasoline engine that has an output of 140PS (138HP).
Even though it accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 7.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph), its average fuel consumption is just 4.7 lt/100 km (50.5 mpg US), dropping to 4.5 lt/100 km (52.3 mpg US) with the optional seven-speed DSG transmission.
The 1.4-liter turbocharged unit belongs to the new EA211 engine family, which shares its mounting points with the EA288 diesels. VW says that both engine families will play an important role in the Group’s implementation of the modular MQB platform.
This kind of performance and low fuel consumption from a gasoline, non-hybrid engine has been achieved thanks to VW’s new ACT active cylinder deactivation technology – which up until now, was implemented only in larger displacement engines with 8, 10 or 12 cylinders.
The system, which makes its debut in the Polo Blue GT, shuts down cylinders two and three under low and medium engine loads and when the driver presses the accelerator pedal, reactivates them instantly (from 13 to 36 milliseconds, depending on engine speed).
It works between 1,250 and 4,000 rpm, and 25 to 100Nm (18.4-73.7 lb-ft) of torque, which VW says accounts for nearly 70 percent of operation in the EU driving cycle.
The Polo BlueGT is distinguished on the outside by the new 17-inch alloy wheels, the GT logos at the front and rear, new tailpipe trim and the “BlueMotion” badge at the back. It also sports a black-painted grille and R-line ventilation screen up front, a roof spoiler, a diffuser at the rear and a 15mm lower ride height.
The interior gets the Polo GTI’s instruments, plus cruise control, black roof trim, leather steering wheel trim with a “BlueGT” logo and sport front seats, as well as ACT and tire pressure messages shown on the multifunction display.
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