Fridae

The two most readily identified "green" cars in Singapore are Japanese makes: the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid. The Toyota Prius which is highly endorsed by celebrities in America has gathered huge sales momentum in the current climate of soaring fuel prices.

The German automobile empire Volkswagen has other ideas to tackle escalating environmental issues. First sighted at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006, this unassuming Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion is the first car to go on sale with a mere double-digit emissions (99 g/km), embarrassing Toyota's famed eco-warrior, the Prius. The Polo BlueMotion offers a sneak preview of the many Volkswagen's BlueMotion vehicles that promises to be the most environmentally considerate car and fuel efficient within their car range.

A rather sensible approach has been undertaken here, a frugal 1.4 litre TDI engine which is basically a 3-cylinder diesel engine, mated with a long geared five-speed manual gearbox, low rolling resisting tyres and improved aerodynamics. An almost remarkable reduced weight at 1084 kg contributes to an unmatched 3.8 litres per 100km (26.3KM/L).

The current Volkswagen Polo (MK VI) has been with us since September 2001 and received a minor facelift in 2005. Its Italian and French competitors have since moved the game up a couple of notches. Replacement is due within the next couple of years; however the Volkswagen Polo remains a clean and classy design. The Polo BlueMotion wears a different front grille compared to the 1.4 litre petrol version. While this is definitely not a cutting edge design, but the Polo BlueMotion ensures exclusivity and a nodding agreement from sharp eyed green campers.

Starting up the Polo BlueMotion can be quite a shocking affair for Singaporean drivers who are accustomed to petrol engines. Upon ignition, the diesel rattles and a raucous engine note can be audible. Upon moving off, the diesel rumble fades away mostly. The exceptionally tall gearing meant that one would need to downshift more often than not. Unexpectedly, the performance of the Polo BlueMotion has proved more than a match than a typical Japanese econ-box.

Along expressways, the Volkswagen Eco-hatch becomes a refined and effortless cruiser, capable of putting many bigger cars to shame. The BlueMotion suspension set-up meant a lowered ride height and slim 165/70 R14 tyres. These are special low resistance tyres. They have less grip and would need to be taken into consideration during braking and wet weather driving. The smoothing riding Polo BlueMotion allows grin inducing levels of feedback from the electro-hydrollic steering.

Sadly, the Polo BlueMotion does not come with a more interesting interior. While there are "Paul Smith" inspired upholstery patterns on the seats, the cabin remains a solid construction and nothing more. Space is still class competitive, but attempting to fit three gym fit dudes at the back would better be a short trip.

Since June 2008, the special tax imposed on diesel cars in Singapore is reduced (now at $1,778 p.a for the Polo BlueMotion), at $85,800 one would need to clock extremely high mileages to make financial sense. An extremely steep price for essentially a small hatchback, even for one as fuel efficient and full of character as the Polo BlueMotion.

Its environmental credentials may be intriguing and backed with a favourable driving experience despite the excessively long gearing and rather weak brakes. A lovable but flawed innovation from Volkswagen. Best thing of all, the Polo BlueMotion is a cool eco-car to have as the Japanese eco offerings just shout too much and drive like bricks.

	Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion (5-door)
Engine	3 Cylinder, 1,422cc Diesel Turbocharged
Transmission	5-Speed Manual, Front-Wheel Drive
Max. Power	80 BHP @ 4000rpm
Max. Torque	195 NM @  1800-2200rpm
0-100 km/h	176 KM/H
Top speed	12.8 secs
Fuel Economy	3.8 L/100KM (combined cycle, claimed)
CO2 Emissions	99 g/km
Dimensions (L x W x H) / Weight	3916mmX1650mmX1467mm / 1084kg
Price with COE*	$85,800*

*Prices quoted are indicative of prices in Singapore. Please contact your local distributor for prices in your country.