The new Volkswagen Jetta set a record for hybrid land speed after averaging 186.313 miles per hour at the Bonneville World Finals. This is the second time the model has broken the speed record in 2012, with both recordings done at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.
Hybrid Cars reports that the Jetta's class is for cars with engines under 1.5 liters and used forced induction. The model used in the speed testing was specifically modified to run in this Hybrid class under the regulations of the Southern California Timing Association (SCTA).
"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," said Jonathan Browning, CEO and president of Volkswagen Group of America. "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."
The automaker claims that the 2013 Jetta is a different type of hybrid than in previous years, with a turbocharged engine and electric motor. By the time the model is available for purchase, vehicle maintenance will have been finished and the car should reach up to 45 miles per gallon.