New 2010 VW Golf Offers TDI Clean Diesel Option

Fans of Volkswagen’s iconic Golf should be pleased with the automaker’s new rendition of the model, which received its U.S. unveiling recently. The Golf was previously known as the ‘Rabbit’ in this market.

The Golf’s restyled exterior freshens things up and the model also sits just a bit lower, providing s sporty stance. Inside, the Golf’s interior offers a higher degree of refinement than before. VW’s aim is to provide an appearance and tactile feel inside the cabin that makes one feel they’re in a much more expensive vehicle.

Best of all, though, is that VW is offering its fuel efficient turbocharged direct injection (TDI) engine as an option. The Golf TDI joins the Jetta TDI – Green Car Journal’s 2009 Green Car of the Year® – as part of VW’s clean diesel sedan lineup in the States.

The 2.0-liter TDI engine offers 140 horsepower and 236 lbs-ft torque, with that torque coming on at a low 1750 to 2500 rpm. It’s that kind of low-end torque that presses you back in the seat and provides a real performance feel. While official EPA mileage estimates are not yet available, fuel economy should likely be in the high 40s … definitely hybrid mpg territory, but without the hybrid premium.

The sixth generation Golf is additionally offered in a hatchback GTI version powered by a 2.0-liter, FSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That powerplant offers 200 horsepower and 207 lbs-ft torque. Transmission options include a standard six-speed or optional DSG transmission. Both the sedan and hatchback Golf variants go on sale in the fall.