UK: Volkswagen launches new range of highly efficient Golf models

All the new Golf models with this engine and five-speed manual gearbox achieve CO2 emissions of under 120 g/km, while the new Golf BlueMotion, the most efficient and technologically advanced iteration of the model yet produced, is capable of achieving 3.4 liters/100 km on the combined cycle which equates to a theoretical range of over 1,287 km, while emitting just 107 g/km of CO2.

Three versions of the 1.6-litre TDI engine are available to order. The first is an entry-level 89 HP which returns 3.7 liters/100 km on the combined cycle while producing 118 g/km of carbon dioxide.

The second has more power at 104 HP and is available in S and SE trim. This also has a combined economy figure of 3.7 liters/100 km and a CO2 output of 119 g/km. This engine is also available with a seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

The third is the 104 HP in BlueMotion guise. This label is now well known as denoting the most efficient and least polluting model in Volkswagen's range. Although it uses the same basic powerplant as the other new vehicles, the BlueMotion variant has significantly enhanced economy and carbon dioxide figures: 3.4 liters/100 km and 107 g/km.

The gains in efficiency are made possible through a combination of subtle yet effective changes to the vehicle's drivetrain and aerodynamics. The engine's five-speed gearbox has longer ratios in third, fourth and fifth gears as well as regenerative braking.

A Stop-Start system is also fitted to the new Golf BlueMotion to improve efficiency further. The system allows the engine to shut down completely when at a standstill before automatically restarting as soon as the driver is ready to move off.

As with all BlueMotion variants, the new Golf features optimised aerodynamics with front-mounted cooling ducts moved to the underside of the vehicle, a ride height lowered by 15 mm and low rolling resistance tyres.

BlueMotion models are due to arrive in the UK in September. The 2.0-litre TDI 110 PS engine is no longer available to order in the Golf.

A second phase of Golf BlueMotion models will be introduced at the end of 2009 based on the entry-level S model. These cars are expected to have a CO2 output of 99 g/km and a combined economy figure of over 3.1 liters/100 km.

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Credits: JRC