Volkswagen has finally revealed estimated EPA numbers for the 2013 Jetta Hybrid.
The latest, greenest addition to the Jetta range achieves a combined 45 mpg in EPA testing.
That puts its combined rating 11 mpg above that of the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, the previous economy champ in the range.
Volkswagen has ensured that performance meets expectations for other cars in the range too. The 1.4-liter, turbocharged gasoline engine under the hood produces 148 horsepower. Torque is strong too, with 184 lbs-ft available from only 1,400 rpm.
That engine is paired with a 20 kW (27 hp) electric motor, and sends its power through a 7-speed, dual-clutch automatic transmission. It allows the Jetta Hybrid to sprint to 60 mph in under 9 seconds.
Drivers can also choose to put the car in EV mode, where they'll get around 1.3 miles of all-electric range, and be able to drive at speeds of up to 44 mph on electric power alone.
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid first drive
And as you'd expect from a hybrid, braking and decelerating helps the lithium-ion battery recoup some energy, ready to be used when you next accelerate. At speeds of 84 mph and under, the engine can be decoupled and turn off completely, allowing the car to "sail" to further improve gas mileage.
Four trim levels are available--SE, an upgraded SE, SEL1 and SEL2. All feature revised bodywork to maximize the car's aerodynamic capabilities, including special spoilers, LED rear lights, low rolling resistance tires and a unique radiator grille.
No further details on the Jetta's economy have been revealed, but we can expect to find these out before the car hits dealers at the end of December.
Pricing starts from $24,995, and rises to $31,180 for the SEL Premium model. You can catch the Jetta Hybrid at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show--head over to our handy show page for more from L.A.
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