Latest VW Golf PHEVs on-sale in Europe
Volkswagen has rolled out the latest plug-in hybrid versions of the popular Golf small car in Europe.
VW has doubled petrol-electric PHEV offerings to two as part of the eighth generation Golf line-up, adding the more economical “maximum comfort” eHybrid alongside the higher performance GTE.
The sad new for Australia is the two PHEVs won’t come here unless there is a serious change of heart by VW.
The German manufacturer’s local arm did try and get stock of the previous generation GTE, but has since decided to start its transition to electrification with the ID.4 battery electric SUV some time in 2022.
So what are we missing out on?
The new-generation PHEVs benefit from a 50 per cent higher-energy 13kWh lithium-ion battery pack compared to the Mk 7 system, allowing the eHybrid to cover up to 80km from a full charge and the GTE 62km.
The PHEVs combine the battery with an electric motor and 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine that powers the front wheels.
The eHybrid makes a system power and torque outpit pf 150kW and 350Nm.
The GTE makes 180kW – the same as the iconic Golf GTI hot hatch – and 400Nm, but also has a software application that can boost system outputs higher.
Both Golf PHEVs can travel in electric, hybrid or petrol-only modes. The combined range for the eHybrid is 870km (NEDC) and the GTE offers 745km (NEDC).
VW claims a fuel consumption average of 1.2-1.4L/100km for the eHybrid and electrical consumption of 11.0-11.6kWh/100km.
The GTE’s figures and are 1.7L/100Km and 12.4kWh/100km. Again, these figures are all NEDC.
All eight hatchback and wagon Golf models eventually offered with the PHEV drivetrain will pair with a six-speed dual clutch transmission.
Volkswagen will also offer 48v mild hybrid eTSI versions of the new Golf in various output levels.
Pricing in Germany starts at about $65,000 Aussie dollars for the eHybrid and about $68,000 for the GTE.
Considering the ID.4 is likely to be cheaper than that here, it’s understandable VW Australia elected to jump the PHEVs and go straight to EV!
The Mk 8 Golf range will be all-petrol in Australia and goes on-sale late in 2020.
