VW Golf GTE: Eco-Friendly Driving, Done Right

In recent years, VW’s electrified ID family has dominated the stage, leaving models like the Passat, Tiguan, Polo, and even the Golf in the shadows. But with a fresh facelift, the Golf is back in the game. While the design tweaks are modest, the Golf GTE now brings serious driving fun with an eco-conscious twist – especially when you take advantage of its plug-in hybrid nature.

Performance with a Green Blue Boost

Sure, the GTE’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine might sound a bit tame compared to the 2.0-liter found in the Golf GTI, which feels a bit more eager. But anyone thinking the GTE is just a watered-down eco option is mistaken.

The 1.5-liter turbo delivers 130 kW (177 hp), paired with an electric motor kicking in an extra 85 kW (116 hp), pushing total output to a robust 200 kW (272 hp). That means the GTE has more power than the GTI’s 265 hp, and it packs a punch with 400 Nm of torque.

Surprisingly capable – for an E

Behind the wheel, the Golf GTE feels more dynamic than you might expect. With a fully charged battery, it runs impressively long on electric power alone. The gas engine only kicks in when you hit the pedal hard or switch to Sport mode. In Sport mode, the once-quiet electric Golf transforms into a surprisingly capable performer – at least when it comes to acceleration, though the sound remains more subdued.

From a standstill, the GTE hits 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds, and its top speed of 230 km/h leaves VW’s ID electric models far behind. When both the gas and electric engines team up, the boost is impressive, even though the GTE tips the scales at over 1.6 tons.

Not Quite a GTI, But Close

Let’s be clear: the GTE isn’t a direct competitor to the Golf GTI. There’s more to the GTI’s driving thrill than just comparing horsepower (272 hp vs. 265 hp) or torque. But for those looking to save fuel in their day-to-day drives, take longer trips, and still enjoy the perks of electric driving without lengthy charging stops, the Golf GTE offers plenty to smile about.

The 19.7 kWh battery pack (gross capacity: 25.7 kWh) located behind the rear axle delivers over 130 km of all-electric range, with consumption figures of 15.9 kWh per 100 km or 0.4 liters of fuel. That should be more than enough for most drivers to avoid frequent stops at the gas station. Instead, just plug it in at home, work, or at a charging station. And unlike its predecessor, the GTE now supports fast charging up to 50 kW, along with the standard 11 kW charging option.

A Familiar Face with Some Tech Updates

At its core, the VW Golf GTE remains the high-quality compact car it’s always been. The previous usability issues seem to be ironed out, and the 12.9-inch touchscreen makes controlling functions fast and simple, even offering voice commands.

Beyond new lighting elements and updates to the driver assistance systems, changes are subtle. But this mix of performance and electric efficiency comes at a price: starting at €47,895, the VW Golf GTE isn’t cheap. Even the 265-hp Golf GTI comes in about €2,000 less.

Specifications: VW Golf GTE