A multitude of reviews have allowed us to formulate a first impression about the new Golf GTI, and with Volkswagen finally allowing journalists to grab the wheel of the Golf GTE, it’s now the plug-in hybrid version’s chance to shine.
Mirroring the discreet looks of its petrol-powered sibling, save for a few things that set it apart like the blue strip in the front grille and hidden exhaust pipes, the 2020 Golf GTE is a very interesting proposal in the compact segment.
See Also: This VW Golf GTE HyRACER Concept Was Supposed To Debut At The Wörthersee GTI Meet
Packing a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines the 112-horsepower electric motor with a 147 HP 1.4-liter turbocharged petrol engine, it does the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint in 6.7 seconds and has a 140 mph (225 km/h) top speed. The combined 242 HP and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque is channeled to the front wheels via a six-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is the only option.
Compared to its predecessor, the new Golf GTE has a 50% bigger battery. The 13 kWh unit takes five hours to charge at 2.3 kW and 3 hours and 40 minutes at 3.6 kW, and gives the car a zero-emission range of around 37 miles (60 km) with a maximum speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
So, can the new generation Golf GTE be considered the electrified version of the 2020 Golf GTI Mk8? That’s a tall order indeed, but the following POV test drive might help you make up your mind.