Check out this sporty little roadster unveiled at the North American International Auto Show, 2009. Surprisingly, it is the latest offering from Volkswagen (which just received a major vote of confidence as it was acquired by other German automaker, Porsche) which follows the latest trend of producing cars that can boast about how little gas it uses. The Bluesport should appeal to both environmentalists and driving enthusiasts as Volkswagen claims that it’s ability to create a fun drive will only be equaled by the efficiency of the motor.

At the center of the Bluesport beats a turbocharged 2.0 liter diesel engine that is rated at a peppy 180 horsepower. Before (incorrectly) assuming that this car will drive like other cars with similar ratings such as the Scion tC or the Civic Si, please note that this car has almost 260 ft-lb of twist. Of course, the engine is mounted behind the driver resulting in a mid engine layout; this causes it to have a weight distribution of approximately 44:55 (front:rear) and the distinctive and sporty body lines of an exotic car.

The fantastic six speed DSG dual clutch transmission also used in the Volkswagen GTI will make an appearance in the Bluesport, this time delivering power to the rear wheels. Advocates of this new technology will boast about how quickly it can bang off shifts (when it is “expecting” a gear) and how it can slip into automatic mode for a commute in traffic without any drama. As a diehard manual transmission enthusiast, even I have to admit that DSG is a pretty fun alternative to rowing your own gears (it’s probably good for lap times as well!).

Some performance cars have operational modes that increase performance, such as the Nissan GT-R or the Porsche 911, but the Bluesport actually has a mode that increases its fuel efficiency. Supposedly it will travel almost 60 miles to the gallon while this economy mode is activated. Other features for this car are pretty standard for roadsters: aluminum roll bars, manually operated folding soft top, and a MacPherson front suspension. Drivers will be sitting in leather sport seats and be able to control climate and navigation functions through a large touch screen in the center of the interior.