Like a hybrid GTE that will go 80 miles on electric power alone!
The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTE is a plug-in hybrid that’s as much about efficiency as it is about delivering a fun drive. Think of it as a Golf GTI, that’s actually a hybrid, and that can drive over 80 miles on electric power alone! Finished in a pastel egg-shell (or Crystal Ice if you’re being official) Blue, this GTE looks the part with subtle blue accents on the grille and badging, setting it apart from its petrol-powered siblings. But is it just another Golf with a plug, or does it bring something special to the table? Let’s take it for a spin and find out.
What is the Golf GTE?
The Golf GTE is Volkswagen’s eco-conscious answer to the hot hatch. It pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt lithium-ion battery and a 110PS electric motor to deliver a combined output of 272bhp and 350Nm of torque. That’s enough to get it from 0-62mph in a respectable 6.6 seconds (just four-tenths slower than a GTI), with a top speed of 143mph.
But the headline figure here is its efficiency: an official combined consumption of 796mpg and CO2 emissions of just 8g/km make this car a dream for company car drivers, with a Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rate of only 5%. Plus, it offers an impressive electric-only range of up to 81 miles – perfect for city commutes.
I drove this right after trying the Golf GTI Clubsport:
And the Golf R Estate:
Exterior: Familiar Yet Fresh
At first glance, the Golf GTE looks like any other Golf, but there are subtle differences that signal its hybrid nature. The blue detailing on the grille and VW badge hints at its eco-friendly credentials, while the body-coloured bumpers, 17-inch Richmond alloy wheels, and honeycomb air intake give it a sporty edge. The Matrix LED headlights with dynamic cornering lights and the illuminated front VW logo complete the look, adding a touch of futuristic flair.
Boot space, however, takes a slight hit compared to the standard Golf, with 273 litres of luggage capacity (down from 381 litres) due to the hybrid battery placement. Still, it’s plenty for everyday use and short trips.
Interior: A Tech-Forward Cabin
Step inside, and it’s all very familiar if you’ve ever been in a modern Golf. The GTE gets sporty tartan-style seats with a mix of check cloth, leatherette, and Alcantara, offering a comfortable and premium feel. Ambient lighting with 30 colour options allows you to set the mood, while the 12.9-inch infotainment system and Digital Cockpit Pro keep you connected and informed.
The standout tech feature here is Volkswagen’s voice assistant with ChatGPT integration. It’s not quite perfect yet, as I found out when it struggled to answer specific car-related questions, but it’s a sign of where in-car AI is headed. Wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, and advanced driver-assist systems like Lane Assist and Rear Traffic Alert round out the tech suite.
The Drive: Hybrid Fun?
The real test for any plug-in hybrid is how it drives, and the Golf GTE doesn’t disappoint. Starting off in E-Mode, the car feels quiet and smooth, with the electric motor providing instant torque for quick getaways. There’s no denying the appeal of gliding silently through city streets, knowing you’re running on pure electricity.
Switching to Sport Mode, the GTE comes alive. The throttle response sharpens, the suspension firms up (thanks to the optional Adaptive Chassis Control), and the petrol engine kicks in to provide a noticeable boost in performance. What’s interesting is the two-step power delivery: first, you feel the electric motor giving you an initial surge, followed by the petrol engine taking over seamlessly. This dual power delivery adds a unique character to the drive, although it does take some getting used to.
Handling is typically Golf: predictable, confident, and fun. The GTE’s XDS electronic differential lock helps to maintain grip in tight corners, while body control is good for a hybrid. It’s not as sharp as the GTI or as wild as the Clubsport, but it’s still enjoyable – especially when you remember how efficient it is. Even with several journalists taking turns to push it hard on the day, the GTE still managed to show over 63mpg on the trip computer. Impressive!
Comfort and Practicality
While the GTE is sportier than your average hybrid, it doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The ride is composed, and the suspension does a decent job of soaking up bumps. Steering is light in Comfort mode, which makes city driving and parking a breeze, but it gains some heft in Sport mode for better feedback.
Despite its hybrid underpinnings, interior space remains generous. Rear passengers have plenty of room, and the split-folding rear seats with a load-through function make it easy to carry longer items.
Charging and Running Costs
The GTE supports both AC and DC charging, with DC fast charging taking the battery from 5% to 80% in just 26 minutes. For home charging, a full charge on an AC wallbox takes around 2.5 hours, making it convenient for overnight top-ups.
Running costs are where the GTE really shines. With its low emissions and stellar economy, it’s a no-brainer for company car drivers mostly doing urban mileage, or anyone looking to save on fuel bills without compromising on driving enjoyment.
Is the Golf GTE Worth It?
The 2024 Volkswagen Golf GTE may not have the outright sharpness of the GTI or the punch of the R, but it offers near-GTI levels of performance with significantly better efficiency and lower running costs. For most drivers, it strikes the perfect balance between eco-consciousness and fun.
Let me know what you think of the Golf GTE in the comments below. Is this the future of the hot hatch? And don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more reviews!
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