Photo: Volkswagen
Besides launching a TSI BlueMotion version of the regular Golf hatchback, Volkswagen has also introduced one for the Golf Sportsvan. Considering this is an MPV, it's got a little less under the bonnet than you would expect.
The Sportsvan was launched in 2014 with quite a variety of engines. This is by far the smallest though. It's a 1-liter 3-cylinder with turbocharging that delivers exactly 115 PS and 200 Nm (148 lb-ft) of torque.
We haven't checked all of them, but it's probably the smallest engine in this segment. Indeed, no Mercedes B-Class or 2 Series Active Tourer has dared to go this low. However, the Ford C-MAX does come with a 1-liter EcoBoost rated at either 100 or 125 PS.
Why are they doing this? For the sake of fuel consumption. TSI BlueMotion versions of the Golf Sportsvan have a blocked off top grille, special low-resistance tires and slightly reduced ride height. All this has been done to reduce fuel bills. With a manual gearbox, the Germans say we should expect 4.5 l/100km (61 mpg UK) while the DSG is slightly less frugal at 4.6 l/100km (61 mpg UK).
Despite having such a small engine, the Golf SV won't become slow, as 0 to 100 km/h takes 10.4 seconds. We know lots of small cars that take 15 seconds to do that, and nobody seems to mind their existence.
The models have already been added to the German market configurator, so we can tell you they start from €22,625 with a stick or €24,500 with DSG. Benefits include having sliding rear seats and a massive 590-liter boot.
That's for the standard Trendline trim, which brings 15-inch alloy wheels, climate control, an adjustable armrest and a regular TFT infotainment screen. Upgrade to the Comfortline TSI BlueMotion and you get 16-inch wheels, Park Pilot and a larger touchscreen for €1,850 extra.
We haven't checked all of them, but it's probably the smallest engine in this segment. Indeed, no Mercedes B-Class or 2 Series Active Tourer has dared to go this low. However, the Ford C-MAX does come with a 1-liter EcoBoost rated at either 100 or 125 PS.
Why are they doing this? For the sake of fuel consumption. TSI BlueMotion versions of the Golf Sportsvan have a blocked off top grille, special low-resistance tires and slightly reduced ride height. All this has been done to reduce fuel bills. With a manual gearbox, the Germans say we should expect 4.5 l/100km (61 mpg UK) while the DSG is slightly less frugal at 4.6 l/100km (61 mpg UK).
Despite having such a small engine, the Golf SV won't become slow, as 0 to 100 km/h takes 10.4 seconds. We know lots of small cars that take 15 seconds to do that, and nobody seems to mind their existence.
The models have already been added to the German market configurator, so we can tell you they start from €22,625 with a stick or €24,500 with DSG. Benefits include having sliding rear seats and a massive 590-liter boot.
That's for the standard Trendline trim, which brings 15-inch alloy wheels, climate control, an adjustable armrest and a regular TFT infotainment screen. Upgrade to the Comfortline TSI BlueMotion and you get 16-inch wheels, Park Pilot and a larger touchscreen for €1,850 extra.
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