Volkswagen has released the first pictures of its new Golf GTE -- a new plug-in hybrid version of the Golf which is designed to offer the hot hatch thrills of the Golf GTI with the low emissions and running costs of a hybrid.
The Golf GTE joins the petrol-powered GTI and the diesel GTD in the Golf performance line-up and provides the fifth means of propulsion for the model, which is now available petrol, diesel, natural gas (not in the UK), electric and hybrid propulsion.
Power comes from two engines: a 148bhp 1.4-litre direct-injection petrol engine and a 101bhp electric motor. The two powerplants provide a combined output of 201bhp and 258lb-ft of torque, with 0-62mph taking just 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 135mph. By comparison, the Golf GTI will get from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds and the GTD in 7.5.
With both the petrol engine and the electric motor in use, Volkswagen claims the GTE is good for a range of 580 miles, with a 31 mile range achievable on electric power alone. A combined cycle fuel economy figure of 188mpg is reputedly on the cards, with CO2 emissions of just 35kg. This means the GTE will be exempt both from VED and the new, more stringent London Congestion Charge.
The Golf GTE uses a six-speed DSG gearbox with a special triple-clutch system which has been designed especially for hybrid vehicles. The electric motor itself is integrated into the gearbox housing.
On the outside, Volkswagen has combined elements of the e-Golf and the GTI into the GTE's looks. The front bumper features C-shaped daytime-running lights like those on the e-Golf, along with horizontal fins like those found on the GTI. The GTE also features blue styling accents in place of the GTI's red accoutrements and 18-inch alloy wheels are included as standard.
The blue theme continues on the inside, with blue stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever gaiter and seats, and a blue stripe in the tartan pattern of the seats. An 8-inch Discover Pro sat-nav is included as standard along with DAB radio and Bluetooth.
Another difference is the rev counter, which has been replaced in the instrument binnacle by a power meter which shows the status of the battery.
Full details including pricing will be released when Volkswagen opens the order books for the new GTE in late August. The first deliveries are expected by the end of the year.
The Golf GTE will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
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