Which diesel Golf to buy?
Hello. I want to buy a 2009 Volkswagen Golf 2.0-litre diesel, but my question please is how does it compare with the fuel efficency of a 1.6-litre diesel Golf? Which is more fuel efficent? I don't do huge driving, just 60-80 kilometres a trip. Please help!
Thank you.
Lorraine O ConnorOct 2012 Filed under: fuel economy and emissions
Expert answer
Hi Lorraine,
The 1.6-litre TDI engine is available in either 85- or 105hp outputs both of which have an official combined cycle consumption figure of 4.5 litres/100km (62.8mpg). The 105hp version is also available in BlueMotion trim with its longer gearing, unique bodystyling and other tweaks allowing for fuel consumption of 3.8 litres/100km (74. mpg). By way of comparision the 140hp 2.0-litre TDI Golf returns 4.8 litres/100km - or 58.9mpg in old money.
So while less powerful the 1.6 TDI is more efficient. All of the 1.6 variants also qualify for Band A tax of €160 whereas the 2.0 TDI is Band B, costing €225 annually.
Just to throw a spanner into the works; over shorter journeys like the ones you outline a petrol powered model may actually prove to be more economical due to the time it takes a diesel engine to heat up and reach ideal operating temperature. And of course it will be cheaper to buy in the first place.
If you would like to discuss this further let us know.
Paul Healy - Complete Car Adviser@P_aulHealy