Super-frugal Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion supermini now comes in petrol and diesel guises

The German firm has slipped its new 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI engine under the bonnet of its recent;y updated super-frugal supermini.

Volkswagen’s efficient little Polo BlueMotionnow comes in a choice of powerplants – diesel, and for the first time ever, petrol.

The German firm has slipped its new 1.0-litre three-cylinder TSI engine under the bonnet of its recent;y updated super-frugal supermini. The petrol unit joins a 74bhp 1.4-litre three-cylinder TDI diesel replacing the 1.2-litre TDI – and engine which was the only option for BlueMotion drivers until now.

The tiny three-pot petrol produces 94bhp and packs 118Nm of torque. It allows the Polo BlueMotion TSI to get from zero to 62mph in 10.5 seconds, but of far more importance, the engine will return a claimed 68.9mpg on the combined cycle and emit 94g/km of CO2. A five-speed box is fitted and peak power is delivered between 5,000 and 5,500rpm. Meanwhile the 1.4 TDI has 74bhp, returns 91.1mpg and emits 82g/km of CO2.

All Poloson sale in the UK come with a colour touchscreen, SD card reader, DAB radio and USB and AUX-in connections, as well as a height-adjustable driver’s seat as standard. But to match its green credentials, the BlueMotion adds unique 15-inch alloys with low rolling resistance tyres, a wind-cheating bodykit – which includes different front and rear bumpers, side skirts and a spoiler – and a ’Think Blue Trainer’ which analyses the driver’s journey patterns and offers tips via the touchscreen infotainment system.

BlueMotions also add a multifunction leather steering wheel, alarm with remote central locking, air conditioning, a front centre armrest, upgraded infotainment and front fog lamps with cornering function.

Prices start at £14,730 for the 1.0 TSI and £15,795 1.4 TDI three-door models. Five-door versions come with a £630 premium.