8 February 2011
Trip computers aren't typically the most exciting of vehicle features, but at the recent Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion launch - for the first time - I felt compelled to take a photo of the vehicle's 'distance to empty' read out.
Prior to setting off for the drive in what Volkswagen claim to be the world's most fuel efficient 5-seat production vehicle, the handy multi-info display informed my passenger and I that we could astonishingly travel for another 1050km before visiting a service station.
In fact with the miserly claimed consumption of just 3.8 L/100km from the new Polo Blue Motion, there's possibility you will starve sooner than the car thanks to a theoretical range of almost 1,200km. It's also the first internal combustion engine vehicle with a C02 out put of less than 100 grams per km (99 g/km).
While Blue Motion is the moniker Volkswagen will apply to their most eco-friendly of vehicles, it's more than a model designation. It's a cradle to grave sustainability intuitive.
The philosophy also incorporates Volkswagen's efforts in reducing the corporation's footprint during manufacturing through the use of closed loop water systems, water-based paints, minimal solvents, improved waste reduction and smarter logistics (rail vs. road transportation etc).
Volkswagen vehicles are now globally recognised as the most recyclable in the world
Based on the standard Polo TDi - a commendably economical vehicle already - the BlueMotion offers no compromise in driving enjoyment in the pursuit of economy.
Perhaps more importantly though, it looks cooler.
A revised aerodynamics package incorporates a subtle, but stylish body kit that enhances the Polo aesthetically, while lighter weight magnesium alloys, special low friction tyres and a 10mm lower ride height improves the vehicle's unsprung weight and resistance to body roll.
Throw in that trip computer and it seems a win - win situation.
Interestingly, the Blue Motion's super frugal consumption comes by way of almost no engine modifications. The only difference between the Polo and its Blue Motion counterpart's power unit is the latter adds a diesel particulate filter, which further reduces C02 emissions but offers no aid to economy.
Despite producing only 59kW @ 4000rpm the 195Nm of torque available at 1800 rpm the 1.4 litre diesel engine delivers adequate acceleration around town, although no automatic is offered the car is a doddle to drive with a lightweight progressive clutch and slick gearshift.
Over 75.4 km of spirited driving, spurred on by the delightful thrum of the 3-cylinder power unit and combining an eclectic mix of Auckland suburban and open road conditions, we were impressed to find the little Polo had cost no more than $4.70 in fuel and road user charges. (Diesel price at time of test $1.19)
It's an impressively economic vehicle there's no doubt, but in truth so is the standard Polo TDi
And herein lies the Polo Blue Motion's biggest hurdle, at $30,990 it adds a hefty $4,000 to the price of a conventional TDi Polo, yet - assuming you drive your vehicle a realistic 15,000kms per year - the fuel savings equate to only around $110 per annum.
Such is the competitiveness of the segment, several of the Polo's less pricey competitors now also offer an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard fitment, whereas it remains a $1,300 option on the Polo.
We commend VW for making the BlueMotion option available on the Polo as well as future models (expect Jetta and possibly Passat BlueMotions to join the ranks in 2008)
Given the engine is essentially a carry-over unit we applaud Volkswagen's ability to extract greater efficiency from the engine through better vehicle design.
That said, the question must be asked. Couldn't the improved BlueMotion gearbox and aerodynamic grill be fitted as standard to the conventional Polo TDi items? Surely that would see some improvement to economy without doubling up on manufacturing.
Whether the BlueMotion's aesthetic and environmental gains are significant enough to justify the premium price is more a personal choice, rather than one of value for money.
Opting for the more reasonably priced and only marginally less efficient Polo TDi would hardly have you scratched from Jeanette Fitzsimmons' Christmas card list, and you could then consider the optional ESP and/or curtain airbags.
Remember, it's not just about that trip computer's promise of greater distance from fuel bowser to fuel bowser.