The iconic Volkswagen Golf has just released its midlife update, but that doesn’t mean we’re passing up the chance to take the current model for a spin – especially when it’s the Golf GTE PHEV!
On paper, the GTE promises the perfect blend of “GT performance” and “miserly efficiency” in a striking hatchback. And as it turns out, it truly ups the ante.
The GTE sports a look that’s not far from its sporty sibling, the GTI. With standard LED Plus headlights and dynamic taillights, this hatch isn’t just about style – it’s about performance that most will notice. The dynamic 18-inch Bakersfield alloys enhance its sporty profile, while the distinct GTE badging adds a unique touch. And let’s not forget the blue accents on the exterior, hinting at the innovative technology within. Don’t overlook the extra flap on the front wing; it’s there to charge the 13kWh battery, giving you an impressive EV-only range of up to 60km.
Inside, the Golf GTE feels special. Premium sport seats in a stylish Scale Paper fabric give a nod to sustainability without sacrificing comfort. Blue accents continue the theme, featuring on the leather steering wheel and floor mats, reinforcing the fact that this hatch is anything but ordinary.
The all-new digital cockpit steals the show for tech enthusiasts. The central 10-inch infotainment system is your command centre, controlling everything from charging settings to energy flow. Yes, you can even use the 1.4L petrol engine to charge the battery! And for those days when you’d rather relax than race, the system makes it easy to keep track of energy usage.
With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, staying connected is effortless, and the Qi-enabled wireless charging keeps your devices powered up on the go. However, while the six-speaker stereo sounds decent, it could use a bit more punch to match the performance vibe.
Driver information is displayed beautifully on the 10.25-inch configurable driver display, ensuring you have all the info you need, even in bright sunlight. The head-up display is a real perk, showing essential data like speed, driver assist notifications, and navigation prompts without taking your eyes off the road.
Before getting behind the wheel, I thought the Golf GTE PHEV would be your typical eco-friendly commuter focused on saving the planet. I couldn’t have been more wrong – the GT part of the GTE shines through beautifully.
This hatchback handles like a spirited terrier, ready to play. The GTE is quick off the line, with a firm ride reminiscent of its GTI sibling. Cornering is exhilarating, and the boost function – where the electric motor and the petrol engine work together – offers a delightful burst of torque when you need it most.
With combined power figures of 180kW and 400Nm, along with a 0-100 km/h time that mirrors the GTI, it offers performance you can feel. And with an impressive economy figure of 1.2L/100 km and low emissions of 26g/km, it smartly combines efficiency with exhilaration. It can be mild-mannered in the suburbs and turn into a spirited performer the moment you hit the open road.
Emphasising its versatile nature, the GTE comes equipped with IQ.DRIVE and Travel Assist features. With just a few button presses, you can activate full adaptive cruise control, complemented by a “front assist” system that monitors traffic situations ahead. Not to mention the Lane Assist, which keeps you aligned on the straight and narrow (though you can easily switch it off when you want to take charge).
While government RUC charges on PHEVs may be a bummer, I strongly encourage anyone interested to take the GTE for a joyride. It’s a performance hatch that’s not only fun to drive but also economical for daily commutes – helping you and your business achieve a clearer conscience on the environmental front.
