The Volkswagen Polo V (3-door) 1.2 BMT (70 Hp) represents a significant iteration in Volkswagen’s long-running Polo supermini series. Produced between November 2010 and March 2014, this model was primarily aimed at the European market, where the three-door hatchback configuration remained popular for its sporty aesthetic and slightly reduced weight. While not officially sold in the United States, the Polo is a cornerstone of the European small car segment, known for its practicality, build quality, and fuel efficiency. The “BMT” designation refers to Volkswagen’s “BlueMotion Technology,” a suite of fuel-saving measures applied to the engine and vehicle design. This particular variant, powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, offered an entry-level option within the Polo V range, prioritizing economy over outright performance.
Volkswagen Polo V: A Detailed Overview
The Polo V marked a substantial step forward for the model, building upon the success of its predecessor. It featured a more refined interior, improved safety features, and a wider range of engine options. The three-door body style, while offering less rear passenger access than the five-door version, appealed to buyers seeking a more dynamic and youthful image. The Polo V competed directly with other European superminis such as the Ford Fiesta, Renault Clio, and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa. Its reputation for reliability and relatively low running costs made it a popular choice for first-time car buyers, city commuters, and those seeking a practical and economical vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Polo V 1.2 BMT is a 1.2-liter inline three-cylinder petrol engine, designated EA111 / CGPA. This naturally aspirated engine produces 70 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 112 Nm (82.61 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the engine is characterized by its fuel efficiency and relatively smooth operation for a three-cylinder unit. Power delivery is modest, resulting in a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 13.4 to 14.1 seconds, depending on testing conditions. The top speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 14.2 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 8.9 kg/Nm. The engine utilizes multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The inclusion of BlueMotion Technology features, such as optimized engine mapping and reduced rolling resistance tires, contribute to the car’s impressive fuel economy figures. The engine has a displacement of 1198 cm³ (73.11 cu. in.) and a compression ratio of 10.5:1.
Design & Features
The Polo V (3-door) is a classic hatchback, characterized by its compact dimensions and practical layout. It measures 3970 mm (156.3 in) in length, 1682 mm (66.22 in) in width, and 1462 mm (57.56 in) in height. The three-door configuration emphasizes a sportier profile. Inside, the Polo V offers seating for five passengers, although rear legroom can be limited. The interior design is functional and well-built, reflecting Volkswagen’s commitment to quality. Key features of this model include a standard five-speed manual transmission, electric power steering, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in modern vehicles, included driver and passenger airbags. The trunk (boot) space offers 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up and expands to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The car’s drag coefficient is 0.32, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency. The Polo V also features a Start & Stop System to further improve fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 BMT (70 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2010 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 70 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Torque | 112 Nm @ 3000 rpm (82.61 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA111 / CGPA |
| Engine displacement | 1198 cm3 (73.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76.5 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.9 mm (3.42 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.8 l (2.96 US qt | 2.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 997 kg (2198.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 553 kg (1219.16 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 | 3970 mm (156.3 in.) |
| Width | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2470 mm (97.24 in.) |
| Tires size | 175/70 R14 |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
