New e-Golf Gets a Huge Range Boost and More

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf (Credit: © Volkswagen )

The Volkswagen e-Golf doesn’t get much playing time in the world of EVs, thanks to its limited range, iffy performance specs and other minor issues that leave it behind other cars in its class. Recently, VW announced significant changes to its resident electric hatchback in hopes of drawing in more buyers as the brand transitions from diesel to electricity.

The first thing buyers will notice is the new look of the e-Golf. It takes on the new face that the standard Golf took on earlier this year, ushering in new bumpers, front fenders, LED headlights and taillights, C-shaped LED daytime running lights, and an extended blue strip on the grille. Inside, the visual changes include new décor and seat trim.

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf (Credit: © Volkswagen )

One of the huge upgrades for the 2017 e-Golf is new technology. This includes a new 9.2-inch touchscreen that comes with the newly available Discovery Pro infotainment system, gesture control and the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. There are also a few new safety bits including Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring and an upgraded Driver Assistance Package, which now includes adaptive cruise, a Blind Spot Monitor Plus with Rear Traffic Alert, lane-departure warning, lane assist, and high-beam control.

The powertrain has been an issue for the e-Golf as more EVs continue to debut with more power, additional pep and longer EV ranges. While the 2017 e-Golf’s powertrain isn’t quite ready to lead the pack, it is much more competitive at 134 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque, which are increases of 19 horses and 15 pound-feet. This newfound power drops the e-Golf’s 0-to-60 time to 9.6 seconds and increases its top speed to 93 mph.

2017 Volkswagen e-Golf (Credit: © Volkswagen )

Feeding this new powertrain is a 35.8 kWh battery – up 11.6 kWh – which helps increase the total range from 83 miles to 124 miles. Thanks to its new 7.2 kWh standard onboard charger – replacing the 3.6 kWh one on the old SE trim – the e-Golf charges in just about six hours at a traditional charging station. With the DC Fast Charging system, which is optional on the SE and standard on the SEL, you can recharge 80% of the battery in within an hour on a DC fast charger.

Pricing isn’t available just yet, nor is its anticipated release date. Stay tuned for updates.