Overall rating
Volkswagen Golf BlueMotion 5dr
Bodykit improves looks still further
February 2010
Likes:
- Bodykit improves looks still further
- Exceptional economy and emissions performance
- Sharp handling better than standard car
- Little compromise required for improved economy
Gripes:
- Stiffer ride may not suit all buyers
- Stiffer ride may not suit all buyers Further choice of trim would be welcome
- Minimal weight saving from removal of spare wheel
- Long gear ratios require careful selection to maintain progress
Following the successful introduction of the sixth generation of Golf, Volkswagen is broadening the range by adding several variants, one of the most important being the BlueMotion. Using numerous fuel saving technologies, the BlueMotion brings even greater savings than the outgoing model and also substantially reduces its carbon footprint.
Now something of an established sub-brand, the BlueMotion tag has been applied to most of the cars in the Volkswagen range, but the sixth generation Golf is the first car to be designed from the outset with a BlueMotion model in mind. As with other BlueMotion models, the Golf is based on the existing 'S' specification car, with a number of technical and equipment additions.
The BlueMotion uses a 1.6-litre TDI unit used elsewhere in the Golf range, and makes efficiency gains through changes elsewhere. Longer gear ratios, lowered sports suspension, low rolling resistance tyres and improved aerodynamics (thanks to an attractive bodykit) all play their part, as does a weight saving by fitting a tyre repair kit instead of a spare wheel.
Under the bonnet the BlueMotion has a stop/start function, stopping the engine automatically when the car is stationary, the gearlever is in neutral and the clutch is released. Pressing the clutch restarts the engine immediately, requiring no extra effort on the part of the driver but improving fuel consumption significantly in city traffic. Regenerative braking also helps to reduce drag on the engine when under power, while a gearshift indicator keeps the driver informed about when to change up or down for maximum efficiency.
Although the Golf BlueMotion commands a reasonable premium over the standard model, this is easily recovered through road tax savings and with reduced fuel consumption. It is also exempt from the London Congestion Charge, which can represent a substantial saving, especially as the Golf BlueMotion is the first Golf to slip under the required 100g/km threshold.
Now something of an established sub-brand, the BlueMotion tag has been applied to most of the cars in the Volkswagen range, but the sixth generation Golf is the first car to be designed from the outset with a BlueMotion model in mind. As with other BlueMotion models, the Golf is based on the existing 'S' specification car, with a number of technical and equipment additions.
The BlueMotion uses a 1.6-litre TDI unit used elsewhere in the Golf range, and makes efficiency gains through changes elsewhere. Longer gear ratios, lowered sports suspension, low rolling resistance tyres and improved aerodynamics (thanks to an attractive bodykit) all play their part, as does a weight saving by fitting a tyre repair kit instead of a spare wheel.
Under the bonnet the BlueMotion has a stop/start function, stopping the engine automatically when the car is stationary, the gearlever is in neutral and the clutch is released. Pressing the clutch restarts the engine immediately, requiring no extra effort on the part of the driver but improving fuel consumption significantly in city traffic. Regenerative braking also helps to reduce drag on the engine when under power, while a gearshift indicator keeps the driver informed about when to change up or down for maximum efficiency.
Although the Golf BlueMotion commands a reasonable premium over the standard model, this is easily recovered through road tax savings and with reduced fuel consumption. It is also exempt from the London Congestion Charge, which can represent a substantial saving, especially as the Golf BlueMotion is the first Golf to slip under the required 100g/km threshold.