Volkswagen New Compact Coupe

It’s strange to see VW unveil a hybrid powertrain in the New Compact Coupe. We’re so used to hearing diesel, diesel, diesel. And we really like the diesel-powered TDI Jetta in our long-term test fleet. It’s peppy, fun to drive and gets great mileage. So we’re not sure what VW’s new hybrid technology brings to the table.

The NCC concept is powered by a turbocharged direct-injected 1.4-liter gasoline inline-4 that is mated to a 7-speed twin-clutch DSG transmission via a hybrid drive unit. A large 27-horsepower electric motor is in series with the engine. A clutch between the engine and the electric motor allows the NCC to drive under pure electric power without cranking the engine. When more power is needed, the gasoline engine starts and the system works in unity. Powering the electric motor is a 1.1-kW/hr lithium-ion battery pack in the rear of the car. The combined power of the system is about 150 horsepower, and the car, with a full battery charge, is estimated to hit 60 mph in just over 8 seconds.

That’s not exactly quick, and a diesel option might actually be faster. What’s more, a diesel would get real close to the 45-mpg mark claimed by this VW hybrid coupe.

Essentially a 2-door Jetta coupe, the NCC slots between the Passat, CC and Scirroco in size. Unlike the Jetta, however, the rear seats are only for two. We can well imagine this bodystyle going into production by the end of the year. If the hybrid powertrain actually materializes, well, that’s a different matter. If it doesn’t, the diesel is still more than adequate in our minds.