Alternative fuel technology at Volkswagen used to consist of only diesel powertrains. An upcoming Jetta Hybrid, alongside a Toureg Hybrid will hopefully vault the company into friendly territory with green-car fans.
“There are customers who equate environmentally friendly vehicles with hybrids, so that’s one reason we are offering the Jetta Hybrid,” said Mark Gillies Manager of Product Communications from VW.
Discussing the differences between the Jetta Hybrid and Jetta Diesel., Gilles said, “For people who drive in the city, the Hybrid’s electric drive component offers fuel savings compared with a diesel. The Hybrid will be priced close to the diesel, but we feel they are complimentary in the range rather than competitors.”
“[It’s] the only turbocharged hybrid and the only one to use a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission,” Gillies explained. Other hybrids in the Jetta’s class use boring, but traditionally more economical CVTs.
Instead of relying on a CVT, the Jetta uses other innovations to help save fuel.
“It has a unique clutch/electric motor module that allows the car to coast along, with the engine switched off, at speed of up to 84 mph.” he said.
Gillies also added that having two types of alternate fuel versions of the Jetta means that they will have the broadest range of powertrain option in the compact segment.
The Jetta hybrid is expected to get a 45 mpg combined thanks to its 1.4-liter, turbocharged engine. Total power in the Jetta comes to around 170 hp. The economy rating is worth noting because it’s 20-30 percent better than the standard Jetta. However, all the extra hybrid equipment adds a few pounds to the weight of the car, with it coming in at 3,531-lbs.
Helping the Jetta Hybrid stands out from the other versions of the Jetta are some special 15-inch wheels, with low-rolling resistance tires and a fuel-friendly aerodynamics kit.
