As a leader when it comes to producing diesel engines, the Volkswagen Group is not new to offering alternative fuel vehicles. Although VW has produced numerous fuel-efficient and clean burning diesel-powered vehicles, one area that the automaker has made little headway is in hybrid electric vehicles.
During the Detroit Auto Show, VW hopes to change that perception with the Volkswagen Hybrid Compact Coupe. Marking the first vehicle using this new hybrid powertrain, the vehicle is evidence that VW remains committed to lowering fuel consumption across its lineup, even beyond its low mileage diesel offerings.
The Compact Coupe hybrid is capable of delivering 45 miles per gallon thanks to an efficient turbocharged 1.4-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. Those combined motors produce 177 horsepower. Not only does this vehicle provide high mileage, but its it also could provide the driving fun and performance that is typically missing in popular hybrids such as the Toyota Prius.
Not only does the VW Compact Coupe feature a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to maximize fuel-efficiency and performance, but it’s also equipped with other technologies to further maximize mileage including having the ability to disengage the gasoline engine to run solely on electric power during coasting. Start-stop technology is also utilized.
Although the Volkswagen Compact Coupe is just a concept vehicle, the car has already received plenty of attention, which does bode well for a production version. The Comapct Coupe also features relatively mainstream styling that may indicate VW’s intention to put this vehicle into production soon.
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Read more about new Volkswagen vehicles here on this blog.
