REMEMBER the days when vans used to belch out blue smoke and were unkempt and dirty?

Well you still see the rare one laying its own smokescreen but blue takes on a whole new meaning in this world of high-tech commercials with the Bluemotion version of the VW Caddy light van.

The Bluemotion high-economy treatment by Volkswagen means that this is one of the leanest, cleanest and meanest vans on the road.

The Caddy is a truly amazing all-rounder and following on from its career in van racing it is now a front runner in the economy Grand Prix with this version which boasts a 49.6mpg Combined economy figure and 149 g/km emissions readout.

The Caddy range has a well-stocked case of honours and trophies and although not the largest gem in the VW commercial crown, it is certainly one of the brightest.

The Bluemotion Caddy is powered by a 104bhp 1.9-litre TDI engine and certainly does not lack punch with a top speed of 106mph and a 0-60mph sprint of 13 seconds.

This is not bad considering it has had the BlueMotion high economy treatment of high gear ratios for lower rpm and cruising speed, aerodynamic tweaks, lower ride height and low rolling resistance tyres.

This mix of qualities gives the Caddy a very wide spectrum in terms of customer appeal. Its green credentials assure it instant attention when netting fleet sales, especially from local authorities and public bodies, and its versatile and lively nature is bound to endear it to the important one-person business market which likes a little refinement in its workaday vehicles.

Although the Bluemotion version is relatively new, Caddy is one of the most tried and trusted van designs on the road.

Unveiled in September 2003 the Caddy is a distinctive design in its own right with a ‘monobox' appearance. Compared with the original model, the latest version is bigger, offers more loadspace and higher payloads.

There is a high level of standard equipment including a CD player; ABS; TCS (traction control system); EBC (engine braking control); remote central locking; height and reach adjustable steering wheel; side sliding door and a full height bulkhead.

In terms of load carrying its volume of of 3.2 cubic metres makes it a leader and a minimum payload of up to 724 kg underlines its versatility.

The Caddy BlueMotion is as enjoyable to drive as the Polo hatchback and features VW's neat five-speed manual gearbox as standard.