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Volkswagen Golf

VW Golf 1.4 TSI DSG

Seven gears for the latest version of the VW DSG transmission.

Volkswagen Golf DSG

By James Disdale

January 2008

The number seven is lucky for some – and Volkswagen is hoping it will be for the Golf by offering a seven-speed DSG gearbox on the top-selling hatch.

It’s designed to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, so the new twin-clutch setup should leave owners in seventh heaven.

Despite the extra ratio, the box is actually more compact than the six-speed DSG, and weighs only 70kg – a reduction of 23kg. At present, engine choice is limited to lower-powered models; either the gruff 105bhp 1.9-litre TDI or the smooth 120bhp 1.4-litre TSI turbo petrol motor we tried.

On the road, the latter combination impresses. As in the six-speeder, changes are smooth in both auto and manual modes. The first six gears are closely spaced to give quicker mid-range acceleration, with seventh used as a long overdrive. When compared with the six-speed manual, economy jumps from 44.9mpg to 47.8mpg, while CO2 emissions fall from 149g/km to 139g/km.

Elsewhere, it’s standard Golf, which means solid build quality and excellent refinement. The only real downside is that the gearbox adds £1,300 to the already high price.

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FIRST OPINION

    The new seven-speed gearbox is effective – it helps reduce emissions, boosts economy and improves pace. As an added bonus, it provides fast and seamless shifts between gears, whether in auto or manual mode. Even better news is that the compact unit will soon appear in a range of other models, including the next Polo supermini and entry-level versions of the forthcoming Passat Coupé.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Price: £15,982
    Engine: 1.4-litre 4cyl, 120bhp
    0-62mph: 9.4 seconds
    Top speed: 121mph
    Economy: 47.8mpg
    CO2: 139g/km
    Equipment: Electric windows, power-operated door mirrors, air-conditioning, stability control, six airbags, remote central locking.
     
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