Photo: Volkswagen
Ever since Volkswagen launched their ‘BlueMotion’ eco-orriented line of vehicles, most manufacturers have followed in their footsteps, yet no other car of the sort is more important than the new Golf BlueMotion. So, has it moved the game along, as the first of its kind did?
Well, with a combined fuel efficiency figure of just 3.2 l/100km (73.5 US mpg), as well as a very low CO2 figure of just 85 g/km, we say yes. It features VW’s 1.6-liter TDI engine, which packs 109 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is connected to a five-speed gearbox, with longer ratios, which enable the engine to run at very low RPMs practically all the time.
Further boosting its efficiency figures is the overall reduction in weight, over the MK V and VI, stop / start system, battery regeneration mode and suspension lowered by 15 mm. It also features the now commonplace ‘aero tweaks’ which improve airflow, and reduce the car’s overall drag coefficient.
Our only gripe is the lack of a six-speed gearbox, with its ratios spaced closer together, as the standard-fit five-speed box with long ratios will undoubtedly make for a necessary change in driving style, as you will often find yourself having to drop down one or even two gears, in order for the car to get a move on.
Further boosting its efficiency figures is the overall reduction in weight, over the MK V and VI, stop / start system, battery regeneration mode and suspension lowered by 15 mm. It also features the now commonplace ‘aero tweaks’ which improve airflow, and reduce the car’s overall drag coefficient.
Our only gripe is the lack of a six-speed gearbox, with its ratios spaced closer together, as the standard-fit five-speed box with long ratios will undoubtedly make for a necessary change in driving style, as you will often find yourself having to drop down one or even two gears, in order for the car to get a move on.
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