First-Ever VW Jetta Hybrid Will Be Most Fuel-Efficient Model in Lineup

MANCHESTER, N.H. (01/24/2012)(readMedia)-- Volkswagen has taken its time entering the hybrid market, but its second-ever gas-electric, the Jetta Hybrid, shows that there has been plenty of planning involved. Revealed at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this month, the compact 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid will boast a manufacturer-estimated 45-mpg combined fuel economy and offer the fastest 0 - 60 mph in its class when it reaches Volkswagen dealerships at the end of 2012.

As the most fuel-efficient Volkswagen, at least until additional VW hybrids are released as early as next year, the Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid uses the combination of a 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, a zero-emissions electric motor and an innovative 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. Though small and lightweight, the battery packs in a lot of power, enabling speeds of up to 44 mph on electricity alone.

"Combining a gas engine with an electric motor is nothing new, but our customers will see a marked improvement in its execution in the Jetta Hybrid," said Frank Carnucci, general manager of Manchester, New Hampshire VW dealer Quirk Volkswagen. "Volkswagen didn't just toy with engine and motor options to improve fuel efficiency. They looked at the whole drivetrain, including the transmission."

The 2013 Jetta Hybrid will make use of the automaker's seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the first of its kind to appear in a hybrid. While the transmission allows for a smoother and swifter acceleration, the Jetta Hybrid's 1.4-liter engine and electric motor provide the necessary juice, outputting 150 horsepower and 27 horsepower, respectively. Those power numbers are enough to retain the sporty qualities inherent in the rest of the Jetta lineup, helping the VW hybrid go from 0 - 60 mph in less than 9.0 seconds, faster than any other compact hybrid.

While the Jetta Hybrid won't look too much different than the rest of the current Jetta family, Volkswagen has made some aerodynamic modifications to further improve fuel economy. A new

front airdam, rear diffuser and integrated rear spoiler help reduce drag by 10 percent compared to other Jetta models. Meanwhile, Volkswagen has made other minor exterior changes, like the addition of 15-inch alloy wheels and a unique radiator grille that infuses the VW logo into a blue background.

With the new hybrid model included, the Jetta lineup will offer five available drivetrains to buyers. Three gas-only options are available, including a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter unit, a 2.5-liter featuring 170 horsepower, and the range-topping 2.0-liter TSI engine in the GLI that produces 200 horespower. Buyers that want a solid mix of fuel efficiency and performance can still opt for the 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engine, which returns 42 mpg on the highway while churning out 236 pound-feet of torque.

"The Jetta is the kind of car that you can easily sync up to your lifestyle," added Carnucci. "Whether you brave city traffic or the great outdoors, the Jetta is capable of handling whatever you throw at it. That's why Volkswagen gives you so many options for making it yours."

About Quirk Volkswagen NH:

Quirk Volkswagen NH is the newest addition to the Quirk family of auto dealers, and it is already emerging as the destination for New Hampshire VW lovers. They have a fantastic selection of new and used Volkswagens ranging from the Jetta to the Tiguan, and the friendly, experienced sales and service staff to back them up. New Hampshire Volkswagen shoppers can browse Quirk Volkswagen's inventory online at www.quirkvwnh.com, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/QuirkVolkswagenNH, call them at 603-626-7000 or visit their dealership at 1100 S. Willow Street in Manchester, New Hampshire.