Efficiency is an important key factor as car makers strive for a greener future. Before electric vehicles become a common sight on our roads, we can expect smaller, cleaner and, obviously, more efficient engines. Many manufacturers are dropping V6 and V8 engines from their line-up; Audi and Hyundai being only two example. These guys are replacing displacement and pistons with forced-air charging systems that provide as much or more power with impressive fuel consumption numbers.
Another participant in this movement is Volkswagen. It will now use a turbo and super-charged 1.4L 4-cylinder engine to produce 180 hp in their new Polo GTI. Previously, the GTI relied on a turbocharged 1.8L 4-cylinder for the same amount of power. You might be thinking that both powerplants are small and therefore the difference in fuel consumption must be minimal. And here is where you would be wrong.
Along with the thrifty and frankly cool 7-speed DSG gearbox, the new Polo GTI consumes 25% less fuel than the old. This is a striking improvement! The 1.8L needed 7.9L /100 km while the 1.4L, 5.9L / 100 km.
On the subject of the Polo GTI, it reaches 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 229 km/h. Other niceties include an electronic transverse differential lock (XDS) which reduces understeer, ESP and hill climb assist. Add by-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and 17-inch wheels and you've got a bonafied eco-pocket-rocket!
We must get these in North America! Volkswagen! Heed the people's call!
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| Photo: Volkswagen |
Another participant in this movement is Volkswagen. It will now use a turbo and super-charged 1.4L 4-cylinder engine to produce 180 hp in their new Polo GTI. Previously, the GTI relied on a turbocharged 1.8L 4-cylinder for the same amount of power. You might be thinking that both powerplants are small and therefore the difference in fuel consumption must be minimal. And here is where you would be wrong.
Along with the thrifty and frankly cool 7-speed DSG gearbox, the new Polo GTI consumes 25% less fuel than the old. This is a striking improvement! The 1.8L needed 7.9L /100 km while the 1.4L, 5.9L / 100 km.
On the subject of the Polo GTI, it reaches 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 229 km/h. Other niceties include an electronic transverse differential lock (XDS) which reduces understeer, ESP and hill climb assist. Add by-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and 17-inch wheels and you've got a bonafied eco-pocket-rocket!
We must get these in North America! Volkswagen! Heed the people's call!
 |
| Photo: Volkswagen |
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