2016 Volkswagen e-Golf SE FWD Automatic

Model Highlights

Volkswagen e-Golfs come in two trims. A base SE and an uplevel SEL Premium trim. The e-Golf is based on Volkswagen's 4-door Golf model, making it more practical than most other electric cars. The base SE e-Golf comes very well-equipped with LED daytime running lights, a rear lip spoiler, heated front seats, a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control and heated power-adjustable rearview mirrors. Standard safety features include stability control, anti-lock brakes parking sensors, a backup camera and a low-tire pressure warning system. The SEL Premium trim adds 16-inch "Astona" low-drag alloy wheels, LED headlights with dynamic range adjustment, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leatherette interior and cruise control. Inside, the e-Golf maintains the conventional Golf's stylish and upscale interior and despite the presence of massive battery packs under the floor, the cargo area is just as big as on the conventionally powered Golf. The powertrain consists of a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a permanent-magent AC motor that can produce 115 horsepower and 199 lb-feet of torque. A single-speed transmission puts the power to the front wheels. A 240-volt dedicated in-home charger can recharge the battery in 4 hours. Using household 120-volt current takes 20 hours. The range, while quite variable depending on driving style and terrain, is estimated from 85-100 miles. The e-Golf offers three selectable driving modes-- Normal, Eco and Eco+, which vary regenerative braking and throttle response to either maximize power or range. The Volkswagen e-Golf is a solid competitor in the emerging field of electric-powered cars. It offers the practicality and usability of the highly regarded conventional Golf model paired with fast charging capability and a well-equipped feature set.