VW Polo 1,2 TDI Bluemotion

0 to 100 km/h: 14,49 sec Top speed: 173 km/h Power: 55 kw Torque: 180 N.m CO2 : 89 g/km CAR fuel index: 4,10 L/100 km

How do you get to a range of more than 1 000 km on a tankful? obviously it depends on the size of the tank but we are talking about a very modest tank here: just 45 litres. Vw’s official figure is a scarcely believable 3,4 L/100 km, which is why we prefer to use our index figure (still an impressively low 4,1 L/100 km).

The Polo Bluemotion employs a 1,2-litre, threecylinder, common-rail, directinjection, turbocharged and intercooled diesel to get the frugal job done; no hybrid complexities here.

Power and torque are modest, to say the least, but sitting in traffic for most of your driving time, as most of us are forced to endure, 55 kw and 180 N.m are adequate. The interior comfort and quality of trim and controls is also class-leading.

Because the Polo offers such an enjoyable driving experience and the economy is practically unbeatable, it would be difficult to justify not picking this one as your first choice. only visiting the local fuelling station every 1 000 km or more can be a great feeling.

Replacement tyres are rather expensive if you stick to the original fitment of Dunlop Sport 01 but you could always switch to other brands.

If you do a lot of short trips, the diesel particulate filter will clog up and need cleaning by a dealer. A replacement can cost R30 000, which is why some remove the filter (in that case, the ECU will need a remap).