2010 VW Golf to Deliver Up to 42 MPG
In a recent press release, Volkswagen confirmed many of the rumors that have been floating around regarding the 2010 VW Golf. Most exciting for us eco-conscious Americans, is a maximum fuel efficiency of 42 mpg.
That impressive figure comes at the benefit of Volkswagen's latest 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine, which debuted for the Jetta last year. 2010 marks the first year since 2006 that the Golf will receive the diesel treatment in North America. Two TDI powertrains will be available - one with a 5-speed manual transmission and one with a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission (with steering wheel paddle shifters).
For supreme fuel efficiency, VW fans will need to opt for the automatic, which boasts 31 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. The manual drops a mile for each category, offering 30 mpg city and 41 mpg highway.
Prior to the press release, fuel economy for the 2010 VW Golf was estimated at 40 mpg (the same figure posted by the Jetta TDI last year). However, it seems Volkswagen has found some ways to streamline efficiency for the engine over the past 12 months.
In terms of power, the new diesel engine offers 140 horsepower and 236 lb/ft. of torque. The TDI's 0-to-60 mph time is estimated at 8.6 seconds.
Of course, a gas version remains to round out the 2010 Golf lineup. Numbers are less impressive, but still quite good at 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The 2.5-liter inline-5 also comes with a lower starting price tag (MSRP $17,490). For the extra mileage, drivers will need to fork over an additional $4,000 to climb inside a TDI (MSRP $21,990).
But that extra cash doesn't just earn the driver fewer trips to the gas station. The TDI also comes with upgraded equipment - stuff like a touchscreen audio system, Sirius satellite radio and a mobile device interface. Throw in a lowered sport suspension, and it is pretty easy to see why someone would slap down the extra cash for a TDI.
2010 marks the debut of the 6th generation for the VW Golf. In addition to improvements under the hood, the Golf also receives a facelift. The front end gleans with a wider double bar grille and angled headlamps. Updated taillights, a wider stance and rear hatch spoiler are a few of the other new editions. No release date has yet been announced for the 2010 VW Golf, but it should start hitting showrooms in the coming weeks.
Select photos via Volkswagen of AmericaÂ