Fancy a small, quick car without spending as much as you would on a purpose built hot hatch? The Polo Blue GT might well be the car for you. Performance 5/5 The VW Polo Blue GT on test was powered by a 138bhp 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, but also comes with cylinder de-activation technology, helping the Polo to be frugal as well as fun. The perky engine is mated to a seven-speed DSG semi-automatic gearbox and there is more than enough power to keep the majority of drivers happy. The Blue GT performance figures are impressive as it will get from zero to 62mph in 7.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 130mph. Overtaking slower traffic is child’s play. Ride and Handling 4.5/5 For many, the Polo’s ride and handling is spot on. The car has a good level of feedback from the steering while there is minimal bodyroll. The Ford Fiesta is still top of the class in terms of ride and handling, but the Polo is nudging closer with each new model. Technology 5/5 So what is this cylinder de-activation technology? Drive the Blue GT at a steady pace (between engine speeds of 1,400rpm and 4,000rpm and at torque outputs of 25 to 100Nm) and this funky technology will kick into action. Cylinder deactivation reduces the four-cylinder output to two-cylinder power only. This sophisticated system means that you can boost your economy while driving in a ‘normal’ fashion, but you’ll always have plenty of power at your disposal when you need it. The great thing is that you’ll not even know that the engine has shut two-cylinders down – that’s how smooth this unit is – you have to drive it to believe it. VW has also added a feature that on the instrument panel that informs you when you are driving on two cylinders. Equipment 4/5 The Polo GT stands out from the rest of the range with multi-spoke 17-inch alloys and GT badges at the front and rear. Borrowing features from the Polo GTI gives the car a striking stance with a rear spoiler, rear bumper with diffuser as well as a larger front bumper - while the suspension is lowered by 15mm. Running costs 4.5/5 Its cracking cylinder de-activation technology will save you money according to VW. At a constant speed of 30mph, the fuel savings can amount to as much as 20% and, even at 44mph in fifth gear, just over 15% can be saved. It’s frugal too, VW has a claimed average of 62.8mpg and it emits 105g/km of CO2 emissions. Verdict 4.5/5 The VW Polo Blue GT is a classy car mixing useable pace with real-world running costs that will appeal to both personal and business buyers. It may not be quite as good to drive as the UK’s best-seller, the Ford Fiesta, however, this latest model is getting closer.