VW BlueSport Concept Debut

Once upon a time, when the world was a simpler place, there was a plethora of fun, nimble, economical roadsters (particularly in the UK) for our enjoyment. But times have changed, and got more complicated, and probably the only real fun, economical soft-top around is the MX-5. But that could change.

Volkswagen BlueSport Roadster

Volkswagen has debuted their BlueSport Concept at Detroit (why do the Germans use ‘Blue’ for economy when the rest of the world uses ‘Green’? I’m sure there’s a simple answer, but I can’t think of it!), which is a mid-engined, 2 seater roadster with a 2.0 litre diesel putting out 180bhp and 260lb/ft of torque, enough to propel the car to 60mph in around 6 seconds, but with 40+ mpg more than possible.

At first glance the BlueSport looks like an Audi TT, but its eco-credentials and mid-engined layout separate it from its Audi sibling. VW Boss Martin Winterkorn said

“VW is officially committed to growth with cars that will continue to offer maximum excitement with minimum consumption, and the BlueSport is a perfect example of that philosophy”

Which is an admirable sentiment, especially if they are true to their word.

The BlueSport is a really promising concept and we hope it sees the light of day. It’s a long way of being production-ready by the look of it, but if I were Martin Winterkorn I’d be pushing the start button on this project straight away.