DETROIT --- At the North American International Auto Show, Volkswagen introduced its BlueSport roadster, a diesel-powered mid-engine concept car with an estimated highway fuel economy of 50 mpg.

"The BlueSport proves to be a compact and passionate car with a clear Volkswagen signature," said Volkswagen Chairman Martin Winterkorn. "The car offers pure dynamics with a powerful 180 PS Clean Diesel engine that is combined with the characteristic Volkswagen philosophy of efficiency." 

The Concept BlueSport made its appearance at the car show in Detroit with a flex silver exterior and orange fabric convertible top.

Behind the two sport seats of the BlueSport, a 132 kW / 180 PS strong Clean Diesel (TDI) with common rail injection and downstream NOx storage catalytic converter can deliver dynamic performance. A 6-speed DSG dual clutch transmission can transfer power to the rear wheels. In just 6.6 seconds, the sports car can move at 100 km/h; its top speed is 226 km/h, Volkswagen said.

Also having a positive impact on the car's low fuel consumption of just 4.3 l/100 km and reduced emissions are two technologies that are part of the so-called Eco mode: an automatic start-stop system and energy regeneration. Together, Volkswagen said, they propel the Concept BlueSport to an additional fuel savings of up to 0.2 liter per 100 kilometers in city driving.