The Volkswagen Golf VII, produced from 2013 to 2017, represented a significant evolution of Volkswagen’s iconic hatchback. Among the numerous engine and drivetrain configurations offered, the 1.6 TDI (110 hp) with a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system occupied a specific niche. This variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-weather capability, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and economical compact car. It sat within the broader Golf VII range, positioned as a mid-range option offering more security and capability than the front-wheel-drive models, but without the higher price tag of the more powerful diesel or petrol variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf |
| Generation | Golf VII (5-door) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDI (110 Hp) 4MOTION |
| Start of production | June, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 191 km/h (118.68 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp, 76.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3200-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CRKB, CXXB |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1432 kg (3157.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 498 kg (1097.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 343 l (12.11 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1233 l (43.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4255 mm (167.52 in.) |
| Width | 1799 mm (70.83 in.) |
| Height | 1452 mm (57.17 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2637 mm (103.82 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 | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Volkswagen Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION, launched in June 2013 and continuing through 2017, was a key variant within the seventh generation Golf lineup. Built on the MQB (Modular Transverse Matrix) platform – internally designated 1HX0/A3 – this model aimed to deliver a practical, efficient, and secure driving experience. The 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system distinguished it from the standard front-wheel-drive Golfs, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. This variant was particularly popular in regions with challenging climates, such as Northern Europe and mountainous areas, where all-wheel drive was highly valued.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION lies the 1.6-liter inline-four diesel engine, identified by engine codes CRKB and CXXB. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the engine, boosting power and torque. The engine features four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The 4MOTION system employs a Haldex multi-plate clutch, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed. This system is typically front-wheel drive under normal conditions, seamlessly engaging the rear wheels when slip is detected. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing precise gear changes and contributing to the car’s overall efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 hp output and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.6 TDI engine, coupled with the 4MOTION system, resulted in a competent, if not exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 11.3 seconds, making it slower than the more powerful Golf variants like the GTI or those equipped with larger diesel engines. However, the 4MOTION system provided significantly improved grip, especially on slippery surfaces. The manual transmission offered a good level of control, although the gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance. In real-world driving, the 1.6 TDI 4MOTION proved to be a comfortable and capable cruiser, well-suited for long journeys and everyday commuting. The all-wheel drive system instilled confidence in challenging conditions, making it a practical choice for drivers in regions prone to snow or rain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, parking sensors, automatic climate control, and upgraded infotainment systems with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather upgrades available. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, typical of Volkswagen’s design philosophy at the time.
Chassis & Braking
The Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 4MOTION system added some weight, necessitating slightly stiffer spring rates compared to the front-wheel-drive models. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring effective braking performance in emergency situations. The steering system employed a rack and pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and the added security of the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. However, some reviewers noted that the 110 hp engine felt somewhat underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.6 TDI front-wheel-drive model, the 4MOTION version offered significantly improved traction and stability, but at the cost of slightly increased fuel consumption and a higher price. Compared to the more powerful Golf variants, such as the 2.0 TDI, it offered a more affordable entry point into the Golf range, albeit with reduced performance.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDI engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The 4MOTION system itself is generally robust, but requires periodic maintenance, including fluid changes. Today, the Golf VII 1.6 TDI 4MOTION remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a practical, economical, and reliable compact car with all-wheel-drive capability. Its reputation for build quality and durability ensures continued demand, making it a solid option for those seeking a well-rounded and dependable vehicle.
