You want a cheap Golf, but not the TDI? GTE is your answer.
The Golf Mk VIII will finally be revealed by Volkswagen in October. These spy photos show that the electrified GTE will follow shortly. The fully electric ID.3 will be unveiled in Frankfurt next week as an eGolf substitute. This prototype is the most eco-friendly Golf.
How can we tell if it is a plug-in hybrid or a regular prototype? The driver’s side front fender has a cap that hides the charging port. VW will move it from under the front badge, like the Golf GTE, to the side. It looks almost identical to the conventionally-powered model. However, we expect a slightly different front bumper, and a GTE only grille. The current PHEV Golf has a distinctive set of C-shaped LED daytime running lamps, but it is not clear if that will continue with the successor.
One of the images below shows us inside the cabin, where we can see the digital instrument cluster’s upper half. It’s not surprising that the dashboard of the regular model has been seen in its entirety a few months back. The exterior of the Golf will evolve, but the interior will undergo a complete overhaul thanks to a completely redesigned dashboard that has fewer traditional controls.
Although it’s too soon to discuss the technical details, many believe the Golf will benefit greatly from a mild hybrid 48V system. This system includes the usual 1.0 TSI, 1.5 TSI gasoline engines, as well as the new 1.5-liter diesel, and updated 2.0 TDI diesels. A 1.5-liter TGI Evo compression natural gas engine will also be available.
VW has already stated that the GTI and R will continue to be the top-of-the-line Golf models. This means that the GTE won’t get a huge power boost, as it would clash with the hot cars. The current model combines a 1.4 liter TSI engine and an electric motor to produce 201 hp (135 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lbft). This allows for a 0-60 mph sprint in 7.6 seconds, and a top speed at 138 mph (229 kph).
VW had previously revealed a beefier version of the Golf GTE with 268 horsepower (200 kW) 450 Nm (332 Lb-ft), but it was only a concept that was prepared for the 2017 Worthersee Event. It is possible that a minor power boost will be on the agenda. Additionally, a larger battery than the 8.7-kWh Golf GTE’s current Golf GTE may be available to extend the electric range by up to 31 miles (50 km).
VW might be kind enough next month to reveal some details about GTE during the debut of the standard Golf.