GREATER EFFICIENCY, LOWER EMISSIONS: BLUEMOTION RANGE EXTENDED

Drawing on the continued success of the Polo BlueMotion, Volkswagen is set to release a raft of BlueMotion models in the UK, across the Golf, Golf Plus, Golf Estate, Jetta and Passat saloon and Passat Estate ranges, with the first cars arriving in time for the new ‘08’ plate in March.

In addition from October 27th onwards the Polo BlueMotion and the new Golf BlueMotion, placed in Vehicle Excise Duty bands A and B respectively, will both be exempt from the London Congestion Charge.

BlueMotion represents the most efficient model in each of Volkswagen’s passenger car ranges. In each vehicle a combination of revised aerodynamics, optimised gear ratios, a new turbocharger and hard compound tyres is applied. The effect is a reduction in loading on the engine resulting in a rise in efficiency and lower emissions.

Unlike the Polo BlueMotion, which has a 1.4-litre TDI engine, all the new BlueMotion models are powered by a 1.9-litre TDI 105 PS unit linked to a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in the exhaust system. In the Golf this means a combined economy figure of 62.8 mpg and CO₂ emissions of just 119 g/km, while the Golf BlueMotion’s 55-litre fuel tank allows for a theoretical range in excess of 750 miles.

These increases in efficiency don’t come at the expense of comfort or safety. All Golf BlueMotion models are fitted with Climatic air conditioning as standard as well as a multifunction display advising on the optimum moment to change gear. The comprehensive roster of standard safety equipment includes ABS with Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA), a total of six airbags, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP) and ASR traction control. The Match model adds alloy wheels, sports suspension, cruise control and leather trim for the steering wheel, gear knob and handbrake grip.

Priced from £15,565 for the BlueMotion S TDI 3dr before rising to £16,745 for the BlueMotion Match TDI 5dr the new models represent strong value for money. All have a five-speed manual gearbox as standard.

NEW HIGHLINE MODEL ADDS VALUE BOOST TO PASSAT RANGE

The best-selling Passat model, the SE, which accounted for over half of UK sales of the range last year, is set to be replaced by an all-new variant – the Passat Highline.

This new permanent addition to the range features a higher level of standard specification than the SE it supersedes. Replacing the cloth trim is full Vienna leather upholstery complete with heated front seats, a multifunction steering wheel and a set of four carpet mats. This is in addition to the Passat’s already comprehensive range of standard equipment which includes air conditioning, an eight-speaker stereo system and cruise control.

Externally the Passat Highline is distinguished by a set of new 17-inch ‘Macau’ multispoke alloy wheels – an upgrade from the SE’s 16-inch rims. The SE’s chrome window surrounds and body-coloured bumper strips remain.

The combined value of the new equipment totals £2,125 – yet the new Passat Highline costs just £250 more than the SE, with prices starting at £18,890 for the 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS saloon.

The new aesthetic changes are complemented by the introduction of a new 2.0-litre TDI common rail diesel engine to the Passat model range. Linked to a choice of six-speed manual or DSG gearboxes the new engine will be sold alongside the popular 1.9-litre TDI engine as well as the new petrol 1.8-litre TSI 160 PS unit.

The new Passat Highline is on sale now in either saloon or estate bodystyles.