The Volkswagen Polo V (facelift 2014) 1.4 TDI BMT (90 Hp) represents a mid-cycle refresh of the fifth-generation Polo, a supermini car produced by the German manufacturer Volkswagen. Introduced in April 2014 and continuing through July 2017, this variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where fuel efficiency and diesel engines were highly favored. The Polo, in its various iterations, has been a cornerstone of Volkswagen’s lineup, offering a practical and affordable entry point into the brand. This facelifted version focused on refining the existing platform with updated styling, improved technology, and enhanced fuel economy, particularly with the 1.4 TDI BMT engine.
Volkswagen Polo V (Facelift 2014) 1.4 TDI BMT: An Overview
The Polo V, launched in 2009, established a new level of sophistication for Volkswagen’s small car offering. The 2014 facelift brought subtle but significant changes to the exterior and interior, aiming to maintain the Polo’s competitive edge in a crowded segment. The 1.4 TDI BMT (BlueMotion Technology) engine was a key component of this strategy, offering a compelling blend of performance and economy. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding this model provides insight into Volkswagen’s engineering priorities for the European market and its commitment to diesel technology at the time.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo V (facelift 2014) 1.4 TDI BMT is a 1.4-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. This engine, designated CUSB, produces 90 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2500 rpm. The “BMT” designation signifies Volkswagen’s BlueMotion Technology, a suite of fuel-saving measures including optimized engine management, low-rolling-resistance tires, and aerodynamic enhancements. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging contribute to its impressive fuel economy. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.9 seconds, with a top speed of 184 km/h (114.33 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 12.8 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 5 kg/Nm, indicating a responsive driving experience despite its modest power output. The engine displacement is 1422 cm3 (86.78 cu. in.), and it features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system.
Design & Features
The Polo V (facelift 2014) maintains the hatchback body style, offering either a three-door or five-door configuration. The facelift brought revised front and rear bumpers, a new grille, and updated headlight designs, giving the car a more modern appearance. Inside, the cabin features a functional and well-built interior, typical of Volkswagen standards. The Polo offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical cargo space of 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when folded down. Safety features, crucial for this market segment, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a robust chassis design. The car’s dimensions are 3972 mm (156.38 in.) in length, 1682 mm (66.22 in.) in width, and 1453 mm (57.2 in.) in height. The Polo’s relatively compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, a key consideration for European city dwellers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 TDI BMT (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2014 |
| End of production | July, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.1 l/100 km (75.9 US mpg, 91.1 UK mpg, 32.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.4 l/100 km (69.2 US mpg, 83.1 UK mpg, 29.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 88 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2500 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CUSB |
| Engine displacement | 1422 cm3 (86.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1151 kg (2537.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 519 kg (1144.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 952 l (33.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 3972 mm (156.38 in.) |
| Width | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Height | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Polo V (facelift 2014) 1.4 TDI BMT (90 Hp) represents a significant example of European automotive engineering focused on efficiency and practicality. While not available in the US market, its design and technology reflect the demands of a continent prioritizing fuel economy and compact urban transportation. The car’s success in Europe underscores Volkswagen’s ability to deliver a well-rounded and appealing vehicle within the competitive supermini segment.
