Cars: Volkswagen Golf TDI

Friday, April 6, 2012

Volkswagen Golf TDI

The Volkswagen Golf TDI offered a couple of surprises and pleasures. The biggest pleasure was the economy - 41.7 mpg in our test and even more on the highway. This translated to some embarrassment, but more importantly it translated to fewer visits to the local station and, despite the higher cost of diesel fuel, a lower bill at the end.

I'll be the first to admit I'm not the brightest light on the Christmas tree, but I really proved it during the test of the Volkswagen Golf TDI. Know I knew, somewhere, that TDI meant a diesel engine. But because of oldzheimer’s and the rush to get over the hills and through the woods to daughter's house for Thanksgiving, the bell didn't go off.

Throughout the entire trip I was continually impressed by the fuel economy, which exceeded 43 mpg on the onboard economy gauge. Still, I felt it would be a wise move to fill up when we were about 90 miles from home, even though there was still more than a quarter tank left. So I pulled up to the gas pump, opened the fuel door, and saw this big sticker, "Diesel Fuel Only." Thank God they didn't add "dumkopf."

The Golf and GTI are favorites among staffers because they combine a practical and attractive shape with performance, quality appointments, and value. The GTI has a turbo engine and a firm chassis that provides stellar handling. New Golf R adds more power and all-wheel drive to the mix.

SPECIFICATIONS: 2011 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF TDI

Model: 2011 Volkswagen Golf TDI

Engine: 2.0-liter Clean diesel turbocharged 4

Horsepower/Torque: 140 hp @ 4,000 rpm/236 lb.-ft. @ 1,75 rpm

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Wheelbase: 101.5 in.

Length/Width/Height: 165.4 x 70.3 x 58.2 in.

Tires: P225/45R17 H

Cargo volume: 15.2/46 cu. ft. (rear seats up/down)

Fuel economy: 30 mpg city/42 mpg highway/41.7 mpg test

Fuel capacity: 14.5 gal.

Curb weight: 2,994 lbs.