Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid – hybrid cars

Volkswagen caused a stir in the green car market with the release of its BlueMotion versions of the Polo, Golf and Passat. Now the German manufacturer is taking this success to a new level with the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid – a vehicle that manages to appeal to the wide sector of family vehicle owners while becoming highly efficient and environmentally friendly.

Quick links:

• History of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid
• Environmental credentials of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid
• Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid statistics
• Future of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid

History of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid

The Volkswagen Golf has a storied history, dating back to 1974 when its first generation model made its debut viewed as the long-term replacement for the iconic VW Beetle. In North America it was sold as the Volkswagen Rabbit.

The car has undergone several transformations through its history. It was first remodelled in 1983 with growth in its wheelbase as well as its exterior and interior dimensions. In 1992 it grew again and the third generation model was even named as European Car of the Year. A fourth version followed in 1998, before the modern day VW Golf first entered the scene in 2003 marketed to appeal to the ‘fast’ in every driver.

The car has received widespread praise for its excellent driving position and strong engine and has become the centrepiece of the VW brand. When the manufacturer was challenged to produce an ultra efficient family car with the ability to emit less than 90g/km of CO2, it was a natural progression for the Golf brand to continue into the hybrid era.

Indeed the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in 2008 and dazzled the audience with its capabilities.

Environmental credentials of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid

An advanced diesel engine, an electric motor, and the latest seven-speed DSG gearbox combine on the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid, which utilises nickel metal hydride batteries with a capacity of 1.4KW hours.

The environmental statistics produced by the car are remarkable – it is capable of achieving 83mpg on the combined cycle and emits a meagre 89g/km of CO2. While driving around town you can also drive in zero-emission mode by utilising the electric motor at low speeds and in slow moving traffic.

Despite these credentials, the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid will still appeal to motorists that want performance as it has a 1.2-litre three-cylinder common rail TDi diesel engine developing 75 PS and 132 lbs ft of torque. The electric motor, which replaces the conventional starter motor, saves weight and improves packaging and can be used on its own to develop 103lbs of torque. As with most hybrid cars, the diesel engine supplements the electric motor when heavy acceleration is needed but when at a standstill the engine shuts down completely to improve efficiency.

Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid statistics

Here are some crucial statistics about the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid:

• 0-62 MPH: 12.9secs
• CO2 emissions: 89g/km
• Engine: 1.2-litre three-cylinder common rail TDI diesel engine
• MPG Combined: 83mpg
• Top Speed: 115mph
• Torque: 132lbs ft

Future of the Volkswagen Golf TDi Hybrid

There is no official release date scheduled for the Volkswagen Golf TDi at the present time but check back at TheGreenCarWebsite.co.uk and we’ll keep you informed of the latest developments.