The 2012 Sao Paulo International Motor Show is as important for Volkswagen as any other global car maker. At the very site Volkswagen premiered the latest compact SUV from its stable, the Volkswagen Taigun, which would rival the Renault Duster, Ford EcoSport and the likes once it enters production in the coming years.
Although the company had nothing special from the Up family, except for the Taigun, to present at the show, Volkswagen R&D chief Ulrich Hackenberg disclosed a really interesting piece of information about their future plans.
The R&D chief told Autocar UK that the company is working on a twin cylinder diesel engine for the Up, and it shall be introduced in 2013. The twin cylinder engine will be based on the one powering the Volkswagen XL1 that was showcased at the 2012 Auto Expo held in New Delhi. The XL1 concept is one of the most fuel efficient cars (returning 111 KMPL) and will hit the production line in limited volumes next year.
This new engine is as important for the International market as India. Nearly 80 percent of the B+ and C segment cars here are powered by a diesel engine. Volkswagen has been testing the Up 3-door and 5-door versions rigorously in India and though the company has not made its mind on selling it in India yet, you never know when Volkswagen makes a decision. Now this new diesel engine will come as a brilliant addition to the engine range as such a small engine would not only ensure sufficient power but impressive fuel economy at the same time.
‘
image – Volkswagen XL1 concept
Hackenberg further added that the complete range of Up, including Up hatchback, Up sedan and Taigun SUV, will be compatible with the new twin cylinder diesel engine. Production of Taigun is expected to begin in 2015.
Manufacturers like Tata, Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai and also in race for developing a fuel efficient sub-1 litre engine that car return 30 KMPL or more. It would be interesting to see which of them brings the most refined, powerful and yet frugal diesel engine.
Source – Autocar.co.uk
