Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VIII |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 eTSI (110 Hp) Mild Hybrid DSG |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 118 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 3.8-4 l/100 km (61.9 – 58.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 98-102 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm |
| Battery voltage | 48 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the front seats |
| Electric motor | 1 |
| Electric motor location | Front, Transverse |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA211 evo / DLAA |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74.5 mm (2.93 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1227 kg (2705.07 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max load | 583 kg (1285.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 381 l (13.45 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1237 l (43.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4284 mm (168.66 in.) |
| Width | 1789 mm (70.43 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2073 mm (81.61 in.) |
| Height | 1491 mm (58.7 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1533-1549 mm (60.35 – 60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1504-1520 mm (59.21 – 59.84 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. MHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DSG |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
The Volkswagen Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI (110 hp) Mild Hybrid DSG, introduced in 2020, is a significant iteration of Volkswagen’s best-selling model. Built on the MQB Evo platform (internal code 8HX0/A3), this variant represents Volkswagen’s push towards electrification and improved fuel efficiency. The ‘eTSI’ designation signifies the inclusion of a 48-volt mild hybrid system, designed to supplement the internal combustion engine and reduce overall emissions. This model aimed to provide a balance between affordability, practicality, and modern technology, making it a popular choice in European markets and increasingly available in other regions. It served as a stepping stone towards full electrification, offering a taste of hybrid technology to a wider audience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI lies the EA211 evo series 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, specifically coded DLAA. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single scroll turbocharger with intercooling to deliver 110 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 3000 rpm. The mild hybrid system comprises a 48V belt starter generator (BSG) and a small 48V lithium-ion battery located under the front seats. The BSG allows for extended engine-off coasting, regenerative braking to recapture energy, and a smoother start-stop system. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG) is integral to the powertrain, providing quick and efficient gear changes. The DSG’s programming is optimized to work in conjunction with the mild hybrid system, maximizing fuel economy and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 eTSI with the DSG transmission offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.7 seconds, and the top speed is 125.52 mph. The DSG transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The mild hybrid system is largely transparent to the driver, but it noticeably improves fuel economy, particularly in urban driving conditions. Compared to the more powerful Golf TSI variants, the 1.0 eTSI feels less eager to accelerate, but it compensates with superior fuel efficiency. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained when overtaking at higher speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features, even in base trim levels. These included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights, automatic emergency braking, lane assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels added features such as a larger touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, heated seats, and upgraded upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather or Alcantara available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was modern and minimalist, with a focus on digital interfaces.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort and stability, providing a balanced ride quality. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. The car is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic stability control, and traction control as standard safety features. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and precise feel. The weight distribution is well-balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern technology. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered in certain situations, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.5 eTSI and TDI variants, the 1.0 eTSI offered lower running costs but less performance. Its fuel economy figures of around 45.2 US mpg combined were a significant selling point, making it an attractive option for drivers prioritizing efficiency. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the EA211 engine proving to be a robust and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI (110 hp) Mild Hybrid DSG represents an important step in Volkswagen’s transition towards electrification. While not a groundbreaking performance model, it demonstrated the viability of mild hybrid technology in a mainstream vehicle. In the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly popular due to their fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs. The EA211 engine, coupled with the DSG transmission, has proven to be a reliable powertrain combination, making the Golf VIII 1.0 eTSI a sensible and practical choice for buyers seeking a well-rounded and economical hatchback.
