Napa Valley, CA - We often think of new vehicle launches in terms of new exterior looks, interior amenities, cool new technologies, and the like. Often times, the underpinnings are left to the geeky engineers, the mechanics and those with a greasy thumb. However, when I was invited to Napa Valley to drive the new 2014 Volkswagen model lineup, I was most intrigued by the brand new 1.8L TSI engine soon to be available in the
Jetta,
Passat and
Beetle.
Referred to as the EA888, this isn't the first time Volkswagen has used this 1.8T engine. It first appeared in the European '09 CC, but wasn't nearly as efficient then as it is now. This EA888 Gen 3 direct-injected turbocharged 4-cylinder offers up the same horsepower numbers as the outgoing 2.5L that it replaces (170), and torque numbers increase by seven for a total of 184 lb-ft over the engine it replaces.
What does all this mean? For starters, those who poo-poo the 1.8L for being smaller and therefore less powerful than the 2.5L need to look at the numbers to see that's not true at all. In fact, it's more powerful (in terms of torque), and more importantly more fuel efficient. How fuel efficient? Well, Volkswagen claims the 1.8T offers a 17% decrease in fuel consumption over the 2.5L -- all the while offering up more off-the-line acceleration.
Speaking of 0-100km times, the new 1.8T's increased torque means the Jetta 1.8T will get to the 100 mark in an estimated 7.3 seconds, which is 0.7 seconds faster than the outgoing 2.5L.
Sounds win-win to me; and I feel like it will be for many potential VW buyers, as well.
 |
| Photo: Miranda Lightstone |
Less is more
Fewer litres, less fuel burned and reduced internal friction: all things the 1.8T has “lost” in the name of some serious gains in terms of power, performance and fuel economy. In this case, smaller really is better as the EPA rating jumps from 31 MPG on the highway to 36.
The EA888's weight reduction undoubtedly helped those EPA ratings as well. Through the use of high-strength alloy for the pistons, lightweight polymers for the oil pan and the use of aluminum for various parts, the third generation EA888 is 8lbs lighter, coming in at just 290lbs.
Less heat in the engine through exhaust gas thermal management in the new EA888 almost ensures maximum proficiency. Cooler air entering the turbocharger means cooler engine operating temperatures, thus improved overall efficiency. Volkswagen achieved this by “chilling” exhaust gases through the water-cooled exhaust manifold, making them approximately 160 degrees Fahrenheit cooler. This all means at least a 20% reduction in fuel consumption when driving on the highway.
As it stands, the new 1.8 TSI will be featured in the upcoming 2014 Jetta, Passat and eventually the Beetle. If you're one of the lucky few who've bought a late-model 2013 Jetta or Passat, you may already have a 1.8T under the hood, as VW started to sneak those in already where they could as they've begun full production of the engine in their brand new plant in Silao, Mexico.
 |
| Photo: Miranda Lightstone |
Continue reading New Engine breathes New Life into VW
The latest auto news, reviews, prices, product and vehicle releases. 
