Environmental champion
Road Test
Uber-efficient, powerful, and comfortable, the Golf BlueMotion is an excellent example of practical and environmentally-friendly engineering
The Golf BlueMotion is a remarkable achievement in low-carbon motoring. It has an impressively low CO2 level of 99 g/km and achieves 74.3 mpg on a combined cycle.
The manufacturer claims the vehicle can theoretically do just shy of 900 miles on a single tank. Having experienced the mpg for myself, I can see how this could be achieved if the driving conditions were right. I achieved 61.5 mpg on a 52 mile busy London commute, which was impressive as I usually achieve around 38mpg in my regular same-sized-engine petrol car during the same journey.
GREEN TECHNOLOGY
Its low emission level is achieved through a raft of BlueMotion technologies, including aerodynamic improvements, revised gearing, low rolling resistance tyres and a regenerative braking system which uses wasted energy during braking and deceleration to re-charge the battery. Alongside this, the car has a stop/start system which works incredibly well; it cuts out the engine when the car comes to a complete stop, neutral is selected and the clutch released. It starts it up again the instant you depress the clutch, doing so quietly and without hesitation.
Another feature which contributes to the car’s efficiency is the gear shift indicator; this discreetly flashes up on the dashboard showing when to change up or down a gear for optimum efficiency.
RELIABLE VW PERFORMANCE
All these green features do not hamper the the car’s performance; it still has the power and comfort of any conventional Golf. The engine was quiet even though it was turbo charged and the car let in minimal road noise. What’s more, it handled brilliantly, with precise steering, responsive brakes and smooth gear change.
Despite its green focus, the Golf is still well equipped with alloy wheels, air conditioning, a CD/stereo system, electric windows, and heated side mirrors. Safety features are numerous and include hydraulic brake assist, ABS, active head restraints, traction control, as well as numerous airbags.
Due to its sub 100g CO2 level, the Golf BlueMotion is exempt from road tax, as well as the London congestion charge, potentially saving drivers over £2,500 a year based on a daily London commute.
AWARD WINNING
Testament to its environmental achievements is the numerous green accolades the Golf BlueMotion has under its belt. These include the 2011 ACFO Green Vehicle of the Year award, What Car? magazine’s small green family car award, and Auto Express’ Green Award honour.
A judge for the ACFO awards commented: “It really does work. Out of all the cars here, the Golf BlueMotion is the most impressive all-rounder and returns amazing economy figures in practice – while also remaining exceedingly practical and good to drive.”
After having driven the car I can see why the Golf BlueMotion has received such industry recognition.
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