New 130PS VW Golf 1.5 TSI Bluemotion Micro-Hybrid Offers Diesel-Like Efficiency

VW has introduced a new petrol version to the Golf range that claims to offer the same fuel efficiency with a diesel for the cheaper price of a petrol model.

The new VW Golf 1.5 TSI ACT Bluemotion is powered by the 128hp (130PS) version of the company’s 1.5-liter TSI engine. The powertrain features the Active Cylinder Management system, which shuts off two of the four cylinders when possible for better fuel economy, as well as an ‘eco-coasting’ function when it’s paired to the optional seven-speed DSG transmission.

In fact, VW says that the 1.5 TSI ACT Bluemotion paired with the DSG classifies as a micro-hybrid system because of its coasting function. The system releases the accelerator pedal as soon as the driver goes off the throttle or the car is going down a slight slope, switches off the engine completely and decouples it by disengaging the clutch.

VW claims a reduction in fuel consumption up to 0.4lt/100km, with the ‘eco-coasting’ mode working through the 12-volt electrical system and a compact lithium-ion battery that supplies energy to all relevant systems during the phases with the engine turned off.

According the NEDC, the VW Golf 1.5 TSI ACT Bluemotion returns a combined 4.8lt/100km (58.8 mpg UK), with the extra urban figure dropping to 4.0lt/100km (70.6 mpg UK) when fitted with the seven-speed DSG transmission.

The engine itself also features a turbocharged with variable turbine technology (VTG) and runs on the Miller combustion process. VW’s optimized valvetrain control with early closure of the inlet valves combined with the higher compression and turbocharging allows it to return up to 10 percent better fuel efficiency when combined with a similarly powered petrol engine.

VW will offer the 1.5 TSI ACT Bluemotion powertrain to more models, as well as introduce further derivatives of the powertrain in global markets, including with fewer cylinders and smaller engine displacement. The new VW Golf 1.5 TSI ACT Bluemotion is available now in Europe, in both hatchback and Variant bodystyles.