Volkswagen has revealed the first pictures of the Golf GTE – a new plug-in hybrid version of the multi-award-winning Golf hatchback that combines the benefits of electric mobility with the dynamics of a Golf GTI.
The Golf GTE is due to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month. It provides the fifth variety of drive type for the Golf, which is now available with gasoline, diesel, natural gas, electric and hybrid power.
The name of the Golf GTE reflects its position in the line-up alongside the iconic gasoline-powered GTI and the diesel GTD. Where ‘GT’ stands for ‘Gran Tourismo’, ‘I’ stands for ‘Injection’, ‘D’ for Diesel and ‘E’ for Electricity.
The new Golf GTE has two engines: a 1.4-liter 148 horsepower turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine and a 101 hp electric motor. These combine to provide the stated system power of 201 hp and a theoretical range of around 580 miles.
If the electric motor is the sole source for propulsive power, the Golf GTE is capable of speeds of up to 81 mph. When the full power of the system is harnessed, the GTE sprints from 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds and achieves a top speed of 135 mph on the autobahn and race courses. Of more significance is the superior pulling power of the Golf GTE thanks to its alliance of a gasoline engine and electric motor that produces a maximum torque of 258 lb-ft. This torque sets this first “GTE” apart from other plug-in hybrid models.
Alongside this impressive performance, the Golf GTE offers impressive fuel efficiency, with a combined cycle figure of 156.5 mpg* (1.5 l?100km or 188 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 35 g/km* (*provisional data).
In pure electric mode (activated at the press of a button), the Golf GTE can travel up to 31 miles, depending on conditions, and the electric power can also be saved – for example when driving to a zero-emissions zone. The 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery can be charged in around three and a half hours from a domestic mains outlet, or two and a half hours from a domestic wallbox. The battery weighs 120 kg, giving the GTE a total kerbweight of 1,520 kg.
The Golf GTE uses a six-speed DSG gearbox with a triple-clutch system specially developed for hybrid vehicles. The electric motor is integrated into the gearbox housing, while further hybrid components include power electronics and a charger. An electro-mechanical brake servo and an electric air conditioning compressor make for energy-efficient braking and air conditioning.
Visually, the Golf GTE combines elements of the look of the e-Golf and the GTI. The front bumper features C-shaped LED daytime running lights, like those on the e-Golf, as well as aerodynamic horizontal ‘fins’, like those on the GTI. Where the GTI features red, the GTE has blue accents, including across the radiator grille and into the headlights. The headlights, along with all lights on the GTE, are LED. The Golf GTE is available in five-door bodystyle only.
Inside as on the outside, the Golf GTE features blue highlights where the GTI has red. This includes stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter and seats, and a blue stripe in the tartan pattern on the sports seats. The 8-inch Discover Pro satellite navigation system with DAB radio and Bluetooth is standard, and includes bespoke functions for electric vehicles, including the ability to identify potential destinations on electric range, and electric charging points.
The GTE will also feature an e-manager which allows the driver to preset vehicle charging, as well as interior cooling or heating. Additionally, all Golf GTE owners can download the “Volkswagen Car-Net e-Remote” app to their smartphone free-of-charge and use it to control functions and access information.
The vehicle speedometer and tachometer are familiar, and the latter is supplemented by a power meter in the central display, which shows the status of the battery, whether or not power is being used and the intensity of any regeneration.
Full details including pricing will be available when the new Golf GTE opens for ordering in late August. First deliveries are expected before the end of the year.[wzslider height=”400″ lightbox=”true”]
