A new version of the Volkswagen Golf will use plug-in hybrid technology to achieve 0-62mph in 7.6 seconds with fuel consumption of 188mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of 35g/km.
The Golf GTE is powered by a a 1.4-litre 150hp TSI direct-injection petrol engine and a 102hp electric motor. Together, they combine to produce power of 204hp and a theoretical range of around 580 miles.
Using the electric motor alone, the GTE is capable of speeds of 81 mph. With the TSI engine as well, the Golf GTE can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds and on to 135mph.
Torque is 258lb-ft, but the car also has the ability to achieve low fuel consumption with a combined cycle figure of 188mpg and CO2 emissions of 35g/km according to provisional data.
In pure electric mode the Golf GTE can travel up to 31 miles, depending on conditions, and the electric power can also be saved – for example if 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. In the UK, 18-inch Serron alloy wheels will be standard. 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 eight-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. These functions can also be operated remotely using the Volkswagen Car-Net app on a smartphone: a three-year subscription will be included in the UK.
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 the UK in late August. First deliveries are expected before the end of the year.
Dr Spoc - 24/02/2014 11:54
Please nobody buy this car. The “figures” are scientifically flawed. There is only ONE energy source – the engine and therefore the “system” will never be more efficient than the petrol engine. All the motor and batteries do is add weight. So, whilst there may be some efficiency from recovering “lost energy” and storing it in the batteries, this will not be more than the “new lost energy” from carrying around a hefty motor and batteries. What it does do of course is make a mockery (like other hybrids) of the EU MPG measurement system. This is not anti-VW – feel free to buy a Golf Bluemotion instead and reap good economy. Please can marketing people stop getting involved with technology – you are in marketing because you were not clever enough to do science!!!