The trickle of information from VW regarding its Frankfurt Show display continues. We were told that six new BlueMotion models will make their world debut at the exhibition, the tag applied to the most efficient version of each line-up. This week VW let us know that the Golf would be one of that six. As is the intention with the BlueMotion models, you'd be hard pushed to notice the difference between the new Golf BlueMotion and any other TDI version of VW's bread-winning hatch. The changes are extensive though, all in the pursuit of lower CO₂ emissions and better fuel economy. The front grille is more aerodynamic, with engine cooling supplemented by an additional electric fan, while a reduced ride height and new underbody coverings also help decrease the Golf's drag co-efficient from 0.32 to 0.30. The tyres are designed to be of low rolling resistance and use a higher air pressure for that purpose.

As well as reducing drag, VW has lengthened third, fourth and fifth gears in a bid to reduce engine speeds, while new engine management software also cuts the idling speed. The result is an impressive 62.8mpg on the combined fuel economy cycle, with emissions of carbon dioxide quoted as 119g/km - neatly ducking under the proposed new London congestion charge barrier. Prices for the UK market have yet to be announced, but expect a modest premium over current TDI models to be offset with more standard equipment. The Golf BlueMotion goes on sale early next year.

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