Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion: low-emissions advocate

VW Golf 1.9TDi DPF BlueMotion Match 5dr

Volkswagen Golf 1.9 TDi PDF Match BlueMotion 5dr

What is it?

A diesel-powered Volkswagen Golf with its emissions pared to the bone. The tyres have a lower rolling resistance than standard; the engine has been recalibrated electronically; the top three gears are longer to help conserve fuel consumption; and a raft of subtle but extensive aerodynamic revisions include a smoother underfloor, blanked off grille sections and lowered suspension. VW calls this fuel-saving technology BlueMotion.

What’s hot?

• CO2 emissions of just 119g/km. Standard model is 132g/km
• Combined fuel economy of 62.8mpg. Standard 56.5mpg
• Diesel particulate filter cuts sooty emissions to almost zero
• Theoretical fuel range of 745 miles on a single tank
• Logical cabin layout is easy to use
• Excellent safety equipment and five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating
• Tidy handling, courtesy of the standard-fit sports suspension
• Match trim offers better value than S models

What’s not?

• The 105PS 1.9-litre turbodiesel is intrusive and unrefined
• The special tyres are noisier than standard versions
• Tall gearing in third, fourth and fifth (top) blunts acceleration
• Sports suspension doesn