Volkswagen has unveiled the first pictures and details of the Golf GTE plug-in hybrid.
According to Volkswagen the Golf GTE benefits of electric mobility with the dynamics of a Golf GTI.
The Golf GTE is driven by two engines: a 148bhp 1.4-litre TSI direct-injection petrol engine and a 100bhp electric motor integrated into the gearbox housing.The Golf GTE uses a six-speed DSG gearbox with a triple-clutch system specially developed for hybrid vehicles.
Combined power output is 203bhp and 350Nm of torque. With the right conditions, a full tank and full battery the range is up to 580 miles.
0-62mph comes in 7.6 seconds and the top speed is 135mph. In purely EV mode the top speed is 81mph and range up to 31 miles from a 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
Fuel efficiency is very impressive, with an expected combined cycle figure of 188mpg and CO2 emissions of 35 g/km.
The battery weighs 120kg, giving the GTE a total kerbweight of 1,520kg.
Visually, the Golf GTE combines elements from the e-Golf and the GTI. Available exclusively as a five-foot hatch, the Golf GTE features C-shaped LED daytime running lights, aerodynamic horizontal ‘fins’, blue accents, LED headlights and 18-inch ‘Serron’ alloy wheels.
The GTE also comes with an e-manager which allows the driver to preset vehicle charging, as well as interior cooling or heating via Volkswagen Car-Net app on a smartphone.
The Golf GTE will debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show with ordering books opening in late August with first deliveries end of the year.