Volkswagen Golf | Volkswagen Golf (Part 2)

Volkswagen Golf (Part 2)

A Truly Efficient Car

Since its debut in 1974, the Golf has consistently been a bestseller and a benchmark for car manufacturers worldwide. We recently test-drove its newly released sixth generation.

Text by Fumio OgawaPhotos by Masayuki Arakawa

The Fuel Gauge Needle Barely Moves

Of the two available grades, the Highline in particular offers robust torque at low RPMs thanks to its supercharger, and as the engine speed rises, the turbocharger engages, delivering a powerful, punchy acceleration. If you didn't know, you'd think it was a 2-liter engine.

Further enhancing the driving experience is the new generation gearbox called DSG. It offers the same ease of use as a conventional automatic transmission while providing the direct shift feel of a manual.

This iteration features a 7-speed dry clutch system, unlike the previous 6-speed wet clutch DSG which required oil for clutch cooling. This new system is consequently lighter.

Volkswagen claims that "DSG will be installed in cars worldwide from now on," and it's easy to see why. In fact, domestic automakers also appear to be steadily advancing research and development of similar gearboxes.

Fuel Economy Nearing 17 km/l in 10-15 Mode

The benefits of the small displacement engine and highly efficient gearbox extend to fuel economy. According to Volkswagen, both the Highline and Comfortline models achieve fuel economy close to 17 km per liter in 10-15 mode. Indeed, even after driving a considerable distance, the fuel gauge needle barely moves.

"While hybrids are all the rage in Japan, if you consider high-speed driving as the primary criterion, as is common in Germany and other parts of Europe, the new Golf is an exceptionally efficient car."

These are the words of a Volkswagen PR representative, but the ingenuity and technology behind creating a car that is both enjoyable to drive and fuel-efficient without relying on electronics is truly impressive. In an era where hybrids are rapidly advancing, gasoline cars still have much to offer. For driving enthusiasts, why not take the Golf for a spin and contemplate the future of automobiles? It's a surprisingly enjoyable exercise.

Oh, and it's remarkably quiet. That's another surprise.

Volkswagen Golf TSI Highline
Body | Length 4210 x Width 1790 x Height 1485mm
Engine | 1.4L Inline 4-cylinder + Intercooled Turbocharger + Supercharger
Max Output | 118kW [160ps] / 5800rpm Max Torque 240Nm [24.5kgm] / 1500-4500rpm Drivetrain | FF
Transmission | 7-speed Automatic
Price | ¥3,120,000

Volkswagen Golf TSI Comfortline
Body | Length 4210 x Width 1790 x Height 1485mm
Engine | 1.4L Inline 4-cylinder + Intercooled Turbocharger
Max Output | 90kW [122ps] / 5000rpm Max Torque 200Nm [20.4kgm] / 1500-4000rpm
Drivetrain | FF
Transmission | 7-speed Automatic DSG
Price | ¥2,750,000