As for diesels, VW will be offering a 1.9 liter turbodiesel that makes 105 horsepower and 189 lb-ft of torque. Quicker, and more efficient than the current 1.9 liter TDI engine, it can hit 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds, topping out at 191 km/h. The most powerful oil burner offered on the Golf will be a 2.0 liter turbodiesel that creates a whopping 140 horsepower, and 236 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate to 100 km/h in a very un-diesel-like 9.3 seconds, sprinting to a top speed of 203 km/h. Like the gasoline engines, these diesels can be fitted with either five or six speed gearboxes in manual or automatic format. VW will also offer their dual-clutch DSG sequential gearbox on the diesel models for even quicker, enthusiast-driven performance. These diesels are impressive, matching their gasoline counterparts for performance, beating them hands-down for economy and meeting them decibel for decibel with regards to noise levels. Just which diesel(s) makes it to our shores has not been announced.
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Volkswagen has developed an all-new chassis delivering seriously enhanced dynamics for the new Golf. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
As the exterior, interior and powerplants have evolved with time, Volkswagen has developed an all-new chassis offering seriously enhanced dynamics for the new Golf. In its fifth generation the company's best-seller finally moves to an independent rear suspension system. No longer will a simple torsion beam rear axle and standard struts attempt to keep the trailing wheels planted on pavement. From now on it's a sophisticated multi-link setup. Class-leading, its four-link rear suspension is comprised of three latitudinal links connected to one longitudinal arm. VW's engineers have cleverly designed the unit to be compact, as to maximize interior space.
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The new Golf should prove to be a formidable handler, whatever condition the road ahead may be. (Photo: Volkswagen) |
At the front end aluminum is used extensively, particularly on the car's suspension mounting points and subframes, in effect reducing pesky unsprung weight. Revised spring rates and a three-piece anti-roll bar ensure that the front end will remain on course, preventing the wash-out feeling that understeer often entails. Combine this with VW's new electronically-assisted steering with automatic self-centering, and the new Golf should prove to be a formidable handler, whatever condition the road ahead may be.