The Volkswagen Polo V BlueGT 1.4 TSI ACT (140 Hp) is a performance-oriented variant of the fifth-generation Polo, produced between October 2012 and March 2014. This 3-door hatchback was primarily marketed in Europe as a sporty and fuel-efficient option within the subcompact car segment. The BlueGT model aimed to bridge the gap between the standard Polo and the more focused GTI, offering a balance of performance and economy through the implementation of advanced engine technology. It was not officially sold in the United States, but represents a significant evolution in Volkswagen’s efforts to improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing driving enjoyment.
Volkswagen Polo V BlueGT: An Overview
The Polo V, launched in 2009, represented a substantial step forward for Volkswagen’s popular supermini. The BlueGT trim, introduced later in the production run, distinguished itself with a more powerful engine, subtle styling enhancements, and innovative features like Active Cylinder Technology (ACT). This technology allowed the engine to deactivate two cylinders under light load, significantly improving fuel economy. The Polo V BlueGT targeted drivers seeking a refined and engaging driving experience in a practical, everyday package.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Polo V BlueGT lies the 1.4-liter TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) engine, producing 140 horsepower at 4500-6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500-3500 rpm. This engine, designated EA211 / CPTA, features direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler, delivering a strong power output for its size. The engine’s specific output is impressive, generating 100.4 horsepower per liter. The Polo BlueGT achieves a 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 7.9 seconds, and a calculated 0-60 mph time of 7.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130.49 mph). A key feature is the Active Cylinder Technology (ACT), which shuts down cylinders two and three during low-load cruising, reducing fuel consumption. This, combined with a start/stop system, contributes to impressive fuel economy figures: 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) in urban conditions, 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and a combined 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 107 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Polo V BlueGT is a 3-door hatchback with seating for five passengers. Its exterior design is characterized by subtle sporty cues, including a unique front bumper, a rear diffuser, and a small roof spoiler. The car rides on 7J x 17 alloy wheels with 215/40 R17 tires. Inside, the BlueGT features sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedal caps. While not overtly luxurious, the interior focuses on providing a comfortable and driver-focused environment. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Polo V BlueGT offers 280 liters (9.89 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 952 liters (33.62 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The car’s dimensions are 3976 mm (156.54 in.) in length, 1682 mm (66.22 in.) in width, and 1452 mm (57.17 in.) in height. Its kerb weight is 1137 kg (2506.66 lbs), and it has a maximum permissible weight of 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Generation | Polo V (3-door) |
| Type (Engine) | BlueGT 1.4 TSI ACT (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2012 |
| End of production | March, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 107 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4500-6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 / CPTA |
| Engine displacement | 1395 cm3 (85.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1137 kg (2506.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 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 | 3976 mm (156.54 in.) |
| Width | 1682 mm (66.22 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2468 mm (97.17 in.) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
The Volkswagen Polo V BlueGT 1.4 TSI ACT represents a sophisticated approach to maximizing efficiency in a small hatchback. Its combination of a turbocharged engine, Active Cylinder Technology, and aerodynamic enhancements made it a compelling option for drivers seeking a balance between performance and fuel economy in the European market.
