The Volkswagen Golf VI Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) was a variant of the Golf Plus, a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Volkswagen from 2008 to 2014. Positioned as a more practical and spacious alternative to the standard Golf hatchback, the Golf Plus featured a taller roofline and a sliding rear seat, offering increased versatility. The 2.0 TDI with 140 horsepower represented a mid-range engine option within the Golf Plus lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with respectable performance. It was primarily sold in the European market, where compact MPVs were highly popular, offering a blend of practicality and driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VI Plus |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TDI (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | December, 2008 |
| End of production | January, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 204 km/h (126.76 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 94.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 71.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CFHC |
| Engine displacement | 1968 cm3 (120.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1476 kg (3254.02 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2040 kg (4497.43 lbs) |
| Max load | 564 kg (1243.41 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1450 l (51.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4204 mm (165.51 in) |
| Width | 1759 mm (69.25 in) |
| Height | 1592 mm (62.68 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2578 mm (101.5 in) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1517 mm (59.72 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Golf VI Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) was produced between 2008 and 2014 as part of the Golf VI Plus range. The Golf Plus, built on the A5 (or 1HX0) platform shared with the Golf Mk5 and Mk6, aimed to provide a more versatile and family-oriented alternative to the standard Golf hatchback. The “Plus” designation indicated a longer wheelbase and a taller body, resulting in increased interior space and a more commanding driving position. The 2.0 TDI 140 hp engine was a popular choice, offering a good balance between performance, fuel economy, and refinement for European buyers.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Golf VI Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) is the CFHC engine code, a four-cylinder, inline diesel engine displacing 1968cc. This engine is a member of Volkswagen’s common rail direct injection (CRDI) diesel family. The CRDI system, utilizing piezo injectors, allowed for multiple injections per combustion cycle, optimizing fuel atomization and reducing noise and emissions. The engine featured a turbocharger with an intercooler to increase power output. The 140 hp variant produced 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm, providing strong low-end and mid-range acceleration. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 2.0 TDI was typically paired with a six-speed manual transmission, although a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) was also available as an option. The manual transmission offered precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine, while the DSG provided quicker, automated gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 TDI 140 hp engine in the Golf Plus delivered a practical and enjoyable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.3 seconds, and top speed was around 127 mph. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine provided ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The torque-rich nature of the diesel engine meant that strong acceleration was available from relatively low engine speeds. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 TDI 170 hp version, the 140 hp model offered slightly less outright performance but delivered better fuel economy. Compared to the petrol engines, the 2.0 TDI provided significantly more torque and better fuel efficiency, albeit with a slightly more noticeable diesel engine sound.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) was typically offered in several trim levels, including Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline. The Trendline served as the entry-level trim, featuring standard equipment such as air conditioning, electric front windows, and a basic audio system. The Comfortline added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, and a multi-function steering wheel. The Highline trim offered the most luxurious appointments, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a more advanced infotainment system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the Trendline and Comfortline trims, with leather available on the Highline. The dashboard layout was consistent across all trims, featuring a functional and ergonomic design.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, making it well-suited for long journeys. Braking systems varied depending on the trim level. Lower trims typically featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, while higher trims were equipped with disc brakes all around. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard across all models. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its practicality, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. The 2.0 TDI engine was considered a strong performer, offering a good balance between power and economy. Compared to other compact MPVs of the time, such as the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso, the Golf Plus was often lauded for its more refined driving experience and higher-quality interior. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the 2.0 TDI achieving around 46 mpg on the combined cycle. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and turbocharger.
Legacy
The Volkswagen Golf VI Plus 2.0 TDI (140 hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality has ensured continued demand. The 2.0 TDI engine, while not without its potential issues (such as DPF clogging and timing chain wear), is generally considered a robust and durable unit when properly maintained. Parts availability is good, and maintenance costs are relatively reasonable. The Golf Plus, in general, offered a compelling alternative to traditional hatchbacks, and the 2.0 TDI 140 hp variant represents a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a good balance of performance, economy, and practicality for those seeking a versatile and reliable compact MPV.
