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January 26, 2015
Two Concept Models Debut for the 7th Generation Golf | Volkswagen
Volkswagen Golf Blue Motion | Volkswagen Golf Blue Motion
Volkswagen Golf GTI | Volkswagen Golf GTI
Two Concept Models Debut for the 7th Generation Golf
2012 Paris Motor ShowThe 7th generation Volkswagen Golf, arguably the biggest talking point of the 2012 Paris Motor Show, has been unveiled. Following its public announcement, Volkswagen has now revealed the near-production versions of the "Golf Blue Motion" and "Golf GTI."
Text by SUZUKI Fumihiko (OPENERS)
The Most Fuel-Efficient Golf Ever: The Golf Blue Motion
Since its debut in 1974, the Golf has sold 29.13 million units worldwide, becoming a colossal presence not just in the automotive industry, but in the global economy. Professor Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of Volkswagen, states that the new 7th generation Golf reverses the negative spiral of performance increases leading to weight gain. While achieving greater space, safety, and comfort, it has also achieved a weight reduction of up to 100kg and a 23 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to its predecessor. Two concept cars, based on near-production specifications, have already emerged for this new Golf.
As mentioned, the 3rd generation "Golf Blue Motion," which builds upon the already fuel-efficient 7th generation Golf, is equipped with a newly developed 1.6-liter TDI (turbo diesel) engine, achieving a fuel consumption of 3.2ℓ/100km (approximately 31.25km/ℓ). Calculating CO2 emissions from this yields an astonishing 85g/km for a five-seater hatchback. With a 50-liter fuel tank, it boasts a theoretical range of 1,562km. On the other hand, its projected maximum output is 81kW (110ps) with a top speed of 202km/h.
Performance Boosted by the Debut "Performance Pack"
The "Golf GTI," which debuted four years ago at the Paris Motor Show, has also been redesigned to align with the Golf's generational shift, though it remains a concept car. It is expected to be launched in early 2013.
The engine is a 2-liter turbo gasoline engine with a maximum output of 162kW (220ps), a 10ps increase over the previous model. Furthermore, for the first time ever, a "Performance Pack" will be available as a manufacturer option, boosting the maximum output to 169kW (230ps). The maximum torque is 350Nm, with 0-100km/h acceleration in 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 246km/h. With the Performance Pack, 0-100km/h acceleration is expected to be 6.5 seconds and the top speed 250km/h.
In conjunction with the engine performance upgrade, the Performance Pack option includes larger brake discs, upgraded from 16 to 17 inches. The brake calipers bear the "GTI" logo, and a differential lock is employed on the front wheels.
This "Golf GTI" comes standard with an engine Start/Stop system, regardless of whether the Performance Pack is selected. The transmission is a 6-speed manual, with fuel economy at 6.0ℓ/100km and CO2 emissions at 140g/km. A 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG) is also available as an option.
Additionally, a system called "Progressive Steering," which alters the gear ratio according to driving conditions, is reportedly adopted.
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