Volkswagen XL1 to cost 98,515

Pricing for the Volkswagen XL1 has been announced, with the futuristic fuel-efficient car costing £98,515.

Just 200 XL1s are being made worldwide, although it will be made in left-hand drive only. Despite this, around 30 of them will come to the UK, and VW says it has already taken several orders. Although not yet confirmed, it should qualify for the Government's £5000 plug-in car grant, making the price £93,515.

There is a choice of four exterior colours and four interior trims, and the only options available are metallic paint, which costs £840, and Alcantara upholstery, which is £570.

The XL1 is powered by an electric motor and a 0.8-litre, two-cylinder diesel engine that combine to offer an official CO2 emission rating of just 21g/km. It should be able to travel up to 31 miles on electric power alone. It uses a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox, which has been specially modified.

Despite its eco focus, the XL1 is still capable of a 0-62mph time of 12.7 seconds, and has a 98mph top speed. There is a small amount of boot space, with the total capacity just 120 litres.

To boost aerodynamics, the XL1 doesn't have door mirrors, instead using a pair of cameras and a pair of screens positioned on the door panel. The rear wheels are also covered to reduce drag.

There are only two seats inside, which are slightly offset from one another to make the most of the space, while the doors open upwards.