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Drop-Top Diesel In Detroit Jan. 11, 2009 ) VW's mid-engine rear-drive BlueSport concept. Click on images for larger views. Every once in a while, Volkswagen teases us with a stunning two-seat roadster concept. The Concept BlueSport boasts a classic mid-engine rear-drive layout with a 180-horsepower four-cylinder diesel nestled between the front and rear axles. VW's latest Clean Diesel TDI technologies apply. The engine is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. VW says accelerating this svelte 2,600-pound roadster to 60 MPH takes just 6.2 seconds on the way to a top speed of 140 MPH. Fuel consumption is estimated at a very decent 42 MPG.
Hybrid-type systems such as automatic start-stop and energy regeneration help boost city mileage. The style adopts VW's latest design philosophy with angular head- and taillights, complemented by sharp flowing lines. LED lights are used for the L-shape daytime running lights and C-shape taillights. As its name suggests, the BlueSport adds sporty to the mix with muscular fenders at all four corners (with air intakes in the rear), elegant and bold split-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels, and a slick silver paint finish attractively accented by an orange fabric roof. Cargo capacity is respectable for a roadster with dual front and rear trunks. Whereas often a concept car boasts a pretty face but little in the way of functioning running gear, our sources say the BlueSport is close to production-ready. Volkswagen is showing two other diesels at the Detroit auto show — a forthcoming Touareg V6 and currently-available Jetta. Follow the link below for photos and info. Also see: Touareg Gets V6 Diesel
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