The Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Version was displayed earlier in January’s Detroit Auto Show, and now it has been declared that the car will go on sale in the United States before the end of the year as a 2013 year model, where prices kick off at US$24,995 excluding a destination charge of US$795.
The Jetta Hybrid version is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline TSI engine with direct injection that has an output of 147HP and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque mated to a 20 kW (27HP) electric motor, and the whole unit is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission, which send power to the front wheels, the 60-cell, 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack weighs just 35.8 kg (78 pounds), and all thanks for its compactness, it has been fitted behind the rear seats, which doesn’t really affect the Space. Interestingly this whole unit has it own management system which performs diagnostic, safety and temperature controls and, when needed, actuates a cooling fan than ensures the battery operates within its optimal parameters. The hybrid version, can operate on electric power alone for a distance up to 1.3 miles (2 km) either automatically (up to 37 mph – 60 km/h) or manually, by pressing the E-mode button next to the gear lever (up to 44 mph – 70 km/h). The Jetta can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) n less than 9 seconds. At the same time, its combined fuel economy is rated at 45 mpg US (5.2 lt/100 km), which according to VW, is 20 percent better than a conventionally powered car of the same size.
Some standard features include, front, side and window airbags, ABS and ESP, with read side airbags being optional. The base SE version gets LED rear lights and low rolling resistance all-season tires. The SE with upgraded interior trim features a leather steering wheel, “Titan black” or “EcoTech” seat upholstery, a two-zone automatic climate control, a trip computer, a Premium 8 audio system and Bluetooth cell-phone as well as iPod connectivity. The SEL1 trim level add features such as a navigation system, keyless entry and engine start, heated front seats with electric adjustment on the driver’s side, a sunroof and 16-inch alloys. Those opting for the top SEL2 version also get bi-xenon headlights with cornering function, fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera and a 400-Watt Fender audio system.
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to take a look at the pictures.
