At the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show Volkswagen revealed the new Jetta hybrid in full production trim and announced its market launch in the U.S. Averaging 45 mpg, the fuel efficient sedan is said to be around 20 per cent more economical than an equivalent petrol-powered vehicle.
Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is powered by 1.4-litre 150 PS turbocharged petrol engine and a 20 kW electric motor, together with a seven-speed DSG gearbox. It is a very sophisticated system and has all the latest features such as braking energy recovery and pure electric mode.
In electric mode, the Jetta Hybrid can be driven at speeds of up to 70 kmh (44 mph) and over a distance of two kilometres (1.3 miles). When you need full power, all the power is directed to the wheels, giving you 170 PS and 250 Nm (184 lbs-ft) of torque. This car has a 0 to 60 mph sprint time of under nine seconds.
Th hybrid car also features an aerodynamic body kit, consisting of a new front spoiler, a rear diffuser and a rear spoiler, to improve the car’s Cd value. It also comes with LED running lights, LED rear lights and unique 15-inch alloy wheels with low rolling resistance tyres, modified front grille, and couple of hybrid badges.
The only highlight of the Jetta Hybrid’s interior is the new instrument panel. If the driver selects the ‘Hybrid’ menu in the multifunction display, the current drive mode is shown, while a meter indicates energy flow via arrows. It also shows the battery charge state and the electric motor power meter.
Standard equipment: 2Zone climate control system that works without the TSI engine running, a ‘Premium 8’ sound system, Bluetooth phone integration, MDI interface for iPod connectivity and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Moving up to SEL1 specification adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a glass sunroof, RNS 315 satellite navigation, electric driver’s seat adjustment, heated front seats and keyless entry. The top SEL2 specification adds to this further, with 17-inch wheels, fog lights, bi-xenon headlights with cornering function, a reversing camera and a 400-Watt Fender sound system.
