The Volkswagen Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI (105 hp) DSG was a station wagon (estate) model produced between May 2013 and April 2014. It represented an entry-level diesel option within the broader Golf VII Variant lineup, which spanned a range of gasoline and diesel engines, as well as manual and automatic transmissions. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical choice, this variant aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and versatility over outright performance. It was part of the seventh generation of the Golf, known internally as the A7 platform, and built upon the success of its predecessors as a mainstay in the European compact car market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VII Variant |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (105 Hp) DSG |
| Start of production | May, 2013 |
| End of production | April, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 177.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 3000-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CLHA |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 605 l (21.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1620 l (57.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4562 mm (179.61 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI (105 hp) utilized the CLHA engine code, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine was a common choice in European markets due to its balance of fuel efficiency and acceptable performance. It featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and employed a diesel common rail direct injection system for precise fuel delivery. The common rail system, operating at high pressure, allowed for finer control over combustion, resulting in improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine’s valvetrain consisted of two overhead camshafts (DOHC) operating four valves per cylinder. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with this engine was a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG), offering smooth and relatively quick gear changes. The DSG transmission contributed to both fuel economy and driving comfort.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 hp output and the seven-speed DSG transmission provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 10.6 seconds, and the top speed was around 119.92 mph. The DSG transmission was programmed for fuel efficiency, meaning that gear changes occurred at lower RPMs, prioritizing economy over aggressive acceleration. Compared to higher-output Golf VII Variant models, such as those equipped with the 2.0 TDI engine, this variant felt noticeably slower, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the DSG transmission helped to mitigate some of the power deficit by keeping the engine in its optimal torque band. The gear ratios were tuned to provide a balance between fuel economy and usability in everyday driving situations. The 1.6 TDI was best suited for relaxed cruising and urban commuting rather than spirited driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDI DSG variant typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat understated, design. Optional extras included features like a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim materials. The specific trim level (e.g., Trendline, Comfortline) determined the extent of standard equipment and the availability of optional packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension featured a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. The rear brakes were typically drum brakes, while the front brakes were disc brakes. This configuration was common for lower-powered variants to keep costs down. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing comfort and safety over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI DSG was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and excellent fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked outright power, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 2.0 TDI variants, the 1.6 TDI offered lower running costs but compromised on performance. The 1.6 TDI was also often compared to other compact estate cars from competitors like Ford, Opel/Vauxhall, and Skoda, often holding its own in terms of fuel efficiency and practicality. Reliability was generally good, with the 1.6 TDI engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDI engine, particularly in the CLHA configuration, became a popular choice in the European market due to its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs. While not known for its blistering performance, it proved to be a reliable and durable powertrain. In the used car market, the Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI DSG remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a practical and economical estate car. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the DSG transmission, such as mechatronic unit failures, and ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained. Overall, the Golf VII Variant 1.6 TDI DSG represents a sensible and well-rounded option for those prioritizing fuel economy and practicality.
