72mpg VW Polo on the way

72mpg VW Polo on the way

Volkswagen will launch a super-efficient Polo this summer that can return more than 72mpg.

The Polo BlueMotion is powered by a 79bhp 1.4-litre diesel, and returns 72.4mpg on the combined cycle. Thanks to improved aerodynamics, reduced weight and modified gearing, that's more than 12mpg better than a standard 1.4 diesel Polo.

A 45-litre tank gives the Polo a theoretical range of 700 miles, and carbon dioxide emissions are also lower than usual, falling from 127g/km to 102g/km. However, the BlueMotion will still sit in the 18% company car tax band. The Polo manages a 0-62mph time of 12.8sec and top speed of 109mph.

A modified front bumper and grille reduce drag at the front of the car, while a rear spoiler also makes the car cut through the air more efficiently.

Lightweight 14-inch alloy wheels are fitted with tyres with low rolling resistance, and the lighter wheels help to reduce the car's weight to less than 1100kg.

The Polo BlueMotion is the first in a series of more fuel-efficient models from the manufacturer. Next in line is a Passat version, which will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March - it could go on sale late this year.

Prices will be announced closer to launch.

Source: [url=http://www.whatcar.com/news-article.aspx?NA=224169]News - What Car?[/url]