2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid which debut at Detroit Auto Show.

With Volkswagen’s goal of world (sales) domination well underway, it comes as no surprise that the automaker is amping up its green-car cred. While VW is heavily invested in diesel and offers the Touareg hybrid, it knows more hybrid models are necessary to go head-to-head with the competition. Exhibit A: the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid, which debuted today at 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Look for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid to go on sale at the end of 2012 in North America.

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid powertrain consists of a turbocharged 1.4-liter inline-4 that produces 150 bhp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque that peaks from 1400 to 3500 rpm. The electrical part of the hybrid equation consists of a 20-kW (27 hp) electric motor. At low speeds (up to 37 mph), the Jetta Hybrid can run on full electric power for about a mile, with the gasoline engine coming to life when the throttle is mashed. At freeway speeds, the Jetta Hybrid runs almost exclusively on the gasoline engine, with regenerative braking helping to recharge the lithium-ion battery. Throw in a combined estimated fuel efficiency rating of 45 miles per gallon and a class-leading 0-60 time of 9.0 seconds, and you’ve got a green Jetta that should prove to be fun out on the highway.

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid handling manners are also impressive. While the car will understeer at the limit through most corners, body roll is minimal. While the Jetta Hybrid’s combined economy of 45 mpg is a bit shy of the Prius’ 50 mpg, it’s much more fun to drive. And for those who value having fun behind the wheel as much as fuel efficiency, the sporty road manners of the Jetta Hybrid is a worthwhile tradeoff for that 5 mpg difference. Look for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid in the fall, priced at about $25,000.

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