A New Era for the Golf

As Volkswagen Brand's first plug-in hybrid model (PHEV),unveiled at last March's Geneva Motor Showthe "Golf GTE" has now arrived.

The car's tagline is: "The end of boring hybrids." While this might sound like an exaggeration at first glance, understanding its origins reveals the unique appeal of a PHEV.

The Golf GTE offers three distinct drive modes: "E-mode" for driving as a zero-emission electric vehicle (EV), "Hybrid mode" utilizing both the engine and electric motor, and "GTE mode" for powerful, sporty performance comparable to theGolf GTI".

In essence, the Golf GTE embodies three distinct personas—EV, hybrid, and hot hatch—giving drivers the freedom to choose their preferred driving mode at any time.


The Golf GTE's powertrain features a drive unit combining a 1.4-liter inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine with an electric motor, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a 6-speed DSG (dual-clutch transmission).

In E-mode, using only the electric motor, it achieves a zero-emission range of up to 53.1 km and a fuel efficiency of 23.8 km/ℓ (JC08 mode) in hybrid mode. Even when driven solely by the electric motor, it can accelerate to speeds of up to 130 km/h and maintain cruising speed. For enhanced acceleration, selecting "GTE mode" engages both the engine and electric motor at full capacity, delivering brisk 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.6 seconds.

The exterior design adopts blue as a base color, common to Volkswagen's "e-mobility" model series, with an accent line extending from the radiator grille to the headlights, similar to the GTI. External battery charging is done via a charging socket located behind the VW badge in the center of the front grille. A full charge takes approximately 3 hours using a 200V home power outlet.

The interior also features blue accents, such as the checkered pattern on the seats and stitching on the steering wheel. The seats are upholstered in a blue tartan check, reminiscent of the GTI.

The price is set at 4.99 million yen, with a potential subsidy of up to 380,000 yen available under the Clean Energy Vehicle Introduction Promotion Measures. Sales commence today.

Volkswagen Golf GTE
Body Dimensions | Length 4,265 × Width 1,800 × Height 1,480 mm
Wheelbase | 2,635 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,535/1,510 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,580 kg
Engine | 1,394 cc Inline 4-cylinder Turbo
Max Engine Output | 110 kW (150 ps) / 5,000-6,000 rpm
Max Engine Torque | 250 Nm (25.5 kgm) / 1,500-3,500 rpm
Max Electric Motor Output | 80 kW (109 ps)
Max Electric Motor Torque | 330 Nm (33.6 kgm)
Transmission | 6-speed DSG (Dual Clutch)
Drivetrain | FF
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.2 m
Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut
Rear Suspension | 4-Link
Front Brakes | Ventilated Discs
Rear Brakes | Discs
Tires Front/Rear | 225/45 R17
Hybrid Fuel Consumption (JC08 Mode) | 23.8 km/ℓ
Electric Driving Range (Plug-in Range) | 53.1 km/ℓ
Equivalent EV Range | 53.1 km/ℓ
CO2 Emissions (JC08 Mode) | 98 g/km
Price | 4.99 million yen