Seven-speed gearbox makes Touran more fuel efficient

By Derryn Wong

THE LATEST VOLKSWAGEN cars to get gearbox upgrades are the Jetta 1.6 small sedan and Touran Sport MPV, which both receive VW’s efficient seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG).

Previously the Jetta 1.6 had a conventional six-speed automatic. The Touran had the six-speed DSG, which is slightly heavier than the seven-speed unit, partially because it utilises a wet clutch system.

As expected, the upgrade benefits the models’ fuel economy. For the Jetta 1.6, its fuel consumption has improved by 17 percent, now returning 14.7km/l, and with a top speed of 186km/h, it’s 3km/h faster. It’s also 1.1 seconds quicker from 0-100km/h, now taking 12.2 seconds.

The Jetta also gets some interior upgrades, as on the 1.4, with a new steering wheel, instruments and climate control.

VW’s ball of fun MPV, the Touran, sees an improved fuel consumption of 14.5km/l from 13.2km/l. Performance remains unchanged at 8.5 seconds for the 0-100km/h run and a top speed of 212km/h.

Both cars are now on sale, with the Jetta 1.6 retailing at $79,800 and the Touran for $103,300. Prices include COE.