Volkswagen's latest BlueMotion incarnation, the MK5 Golf BlueMotion, has been scheduled for launch at this years the International Motor Show (IAA) in
Frankfurt. In total, six new models with technology that is as
economical as it is environmentally friendly, will debut at the world’s
largest car show. Its fuel consumption
has been reduced by a full 0.6 liters compared to the original, 1.9 TDI model.
Similarly, CO2 emissions have been reduced from 135 g/km to 119 g/km.
Actions taken on the BlueMotion make it so efficient that now distances
of more than 745 miles are possible on just one Golf tank of
fuel (55 liters).
Now, 745 miles to a full tank (55 liters) is not to be sniffed at, making a rough estimate of 61.5 mpg, which considering the size of it's engine (1.9), is somewhat of a high figure. Performance has obviously suffered, however this was always going to be the case given the design and background to the BlueMotion initiative. So don't got booking that 'Ring trip just yet.
A software intervention in engine management reduces the idling speed
of this diesel combined with a particulate filter and simultaneously
improves its emission behavior. With longer gear ratios in third,
fourth and fifth gears, engine speed levels are also lower while
driving. These actions alone reduce consumption by about 0.2 liter.
A top speed of 118 mph (190 km/h) has been achieved for the model while still maintaining the hunt for every gram of CO2. Volkswagen is also relying on
light-running tires, size 195 / 65 R 15, optimized for low rolling
resistance; they are driven at higher air pressure, increased by 0.3
bar. The net result in this is an overall increase of 5mph top speed - not bad for a tyre change!
Less apparent but no less necessary for a plus in economy are the
thoroughly trimmed and thereby flow-optimized underbody as well as the
nearly enclosed radiator grille. To ensure that the TDI engine still
gets enough cooling air, the Golf BlueMotion has an effective dual fan.
Thanks to aerodynamic design measures, including lowering of the
chassis, the cW value of 0.32, which in itself is a good value, was
further improved to 0.30.
Come production two models will be available; Trendline and Comfortline, each offering a sufficient level of equipment for the driver. UK prices are yet to be set, as is the release date, but do expect the base price of the BlueMotion to be similar to the already available Trendline 1.9 TDI available from dealerships already. Our guess is that VW want to make the BlueMotion an attractive buy and this could be a hint at other pricing schemes as the BlueMotion range is rolled out.
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