Plug-in Hybrid Golf planned, will be named Golf GTE

With the rise of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, Volkswagen has recently announced their plans to produce a plug-in hybrid version of their Golf GTI. Dubbed the Golf GTE, the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle will likely use the same GTI-sourced suspension and brakes as the Golf GTI. This could allow Volkswagen to slip into an already popular PHEV space, and gain market traction by providing a vehicle that is frugal on fuel but not on fun.

One of the complaints of the plug-in hybrid vehicles is that they are often lacking sportiness and the feeling feedback that makes driving fun. The Golf GTE should do well at both being an enjoyable drive, as well as netting all sorts of fuel savings.

VW insiders told Autocar.co.uk that the internals will match that of the Audi A3 e-Tron that is set to go on sale in the UK by the end of the year. That means power for the Golf GTE will come from a turbocharged four cylinder engine that produces 148hp, as well as a 107hp electric motor that sits within the transmission.

Electric power will be stored in a 8.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack that is located below the rear seat, preserving all normal cargo and passenger space.

0-62 mph time is quoted at 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 135mph.

It seems the Golf GTE is not scheduled to be offered in North America, and will be a Europe only vehicle, but of course, time will tell.

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