Record-breaking Jetta Hybrid

A highly-modified Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid has set a new land speed record at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.

Competing in the Southern California Timing Association's (SCTA) H/PS class, which is for production cars with forced induction engines of less than 1.5 litres, a two-way average speed of 186.313 mph (299.841 km/h) was achieved during the World Finals event.

What’s more, driver Carlos Lago - whose day job is Associate Road Test Editor at Motor Trend - managed 187.147 mph (301.183 km/h) during the final mile of the second run.

Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid LSR 2012 Front Side

The stock Jetta Hybrid is powered by a 1.4 litre turbocharged engine and an electric motor that combined produce 170 bhp (126 kW / 172 PS) and 249 Nm (184 lb/ft) of torque. However, for the land speed record version, that has been dramatically increased to around 300 bhp (223 kW / 304 PS).

As well as the upgraded powertrain, other changes made to the car include the installation of a roll cage and other safety equipment. It also features a stripped-out interior, lowered suspension and special wheels and tyres.

Commenting on the success, Jonathan Browning, CEO and President, Volkswagen Group of America, said: “We’re very proud that the Jetta Hybrid has not only posted the fastest speed for a hybrid at Bonneville, but that it has gone out and broken an SCTA land speed record as well.

“Achieving this record at Bonneville shows that the all-new 2013 Jetta Hybrid is a distinctly different offering in the compact hybrid class, offering excellent fuel economy while retaining the fun-to-drive nature expected from a Volkswagen.”

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