Advancements in automotive technology are usually best measured not by performance and power figures, but by efficiency. Stretching the efficiency of internal combustion to what must be close to the limit, the all-new VWGolf TDI BlueMotion, is the most fuel-efficient model in the nameplate’s 39-year history, measuring 3.2l/100km fuel economy and 85g/km of CO2 emissions.

This is an astonishing figure for a traditional internal combustion engine, and although real world driving in real world conditions probably won’t achieve this, it remains a remarkable claimed figure. The local introduction of the VW Golf TDI BlueMotion according to Volkswagen South Africa is still under investigation and no decision has been taken as yet on when it will be introduced.

New VW Golf TDI BlueMotion: A new benchmark for sustainability

The VW Golf TDI BlueMotion features a new 1.6-litre direct injection four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 81kW of power between 3200-4000rpm and 250Nm of torque from 1500-3000rpm. A six-speed manual transmission replaces the old five-speed.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes 10.5 seconds, making it quicker than its predecessor. With its 50-litre fuel tank, the TDI BlueMotion has a 1500 km range.

Despite all the efficiency modifications, the Golf TDI BlueMotion has a top speed of 200 km/h, and earns a drag coefficient rating of 0.27 achieved through a series of aerodynamic enhancements that include a lowered chassis (by 15 mm), a special roof spoiler, a radiator grille that is almost closed to the outside (with integrated BlueMotion lettering), partially closed air inlet screens in the bumper and optimised cooling airflow and special underfloor panels.

The Golf TDI BlueMotion will be available in two well-known equipment levels of Trendline and Comfortline.

Comfortline is additionally equipped with the ParkPilot parking assistance system front and rear 16-inch Dover alloy wheels, a high quality instrument cluster and the new Composition Touch radio system including SD card interface and Driver Alert system.

The VW Golf TDI BlueMotion is further fitted with a 5-inch TFT display, a fuel tank inlet with a guard to prevent misfuelling, Electronic Stability Control including ABS, brake assist, anti-slip regulation, engine drag torque regulation, countersteer assistance, Electronic transverse differential lock XDS+, Multi Collision Brake (standard), Pressure monitoring indicator (standard), Dynamic Light Assist, Cruise Control, Park Assist, Preventive occupant protection system, Rear Assist, Lane Assist, and Road sign recognition.