Volkswagen is starting the New Year with further
revisions to the Golf, after updating it at the end of 2016. One of them is the addition of a new
BlueMotion model, which is offered in the hatch and estate variants of the Golf
GT. It uses a 1.5-liter TSI petrol unit makes 130 PS, and works together
with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.
The hatch needs 8.8 sec for the
0-100 km/h acceleration, while the estate can do it in 9.2 sec, with
either transmission. Top speed stands at 209 km/h and 211 km/h,
respectively.
The engine, which is already offered in the SE and
SE Navigation models, also features a full shut-down mode. This turns off all
four cylinders temporarily, and starts them automatically once more power is
needed. The automaker claims that "the driver barely notices the process
other than the illumination of a small light on the dash panel to show the
engine is in 'Eco' mode".
Previously available with a 2.0-liter diesel engine,
in two outputs: 150 PS and 184 PS, the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
now gets a 1.8-liter TSI petrol option, rated at 180 PS. Naught to 100 km/h takes 7.5 sec, and top speed is 217 km/h.
The car maintains its increased ride height,
off-road-tuned suspension, and unique styling on the outside, and gets a
12.3-inch TFT screen in the cabin that replaces the traditional analog dials.
The updated Volkswagen Golf models can already be
ordered in the United Kingdom, carrying a starting price of £ 23,435 (US$ 31,721)
for the 1.5-liter BlueMotion 3-door hatch, and £ 31,525 (US$ 42,671) for the
Alltrack.