The 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf, the all-electric version of VW's compact Golf, combines hatchback utility and European road manners with gas-free operation. This makes the e-Golf a natural choice for buyers unwilling to sacrifice fun for efficiency.
What's New for 2019
Fast-charging capability is now standard on the base SE model. The upmarket SEL Premium gains standard lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
Choosing Your Volkswagen e-Golf
The e-Golf gets its propulsion from a 100 kW electric motor that delivers up to 134 horsepower and 214 pound-feet of torque. In "Eco" and "Eco Plus" driving modes, output is reduced to enhance range. Top speed is limited to 85 mph for the same reason. Like most EVs, the e-Golf uses a single-speed automatic transmission.
According to the EPA, the e-Golf can travel up to 125 miles on a full charge. Efficiency estimates work out to 126 miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe) city, 111 MPGe highway, and 119 MPGe combined. The e-Golf wears low-rolling-resistance tires on 16-inch aluminum wheels and aerodynamic body components to aid efficiency.
Recharging the lithium-ion battery pack takes just under six hours on a 240-volt home charger. Thanks to the e-Golf's standard fast-charging technology, an 80 percent charge can be reached in under an hour at public charging stations.
The e-Golf retains the regular Golf's generous cargo capacity: 22.8 cubic feet behind the rear seat, and 52.7 cubic feet with it folded.
Once again, the e-Golf comes in two trims:
The 2019 VW e-Golf SE with the Driver Assistance Package provides all the important features at a friendly price. The SEL Premium's high-tech dash displays are impressive, but come at a cost that's hard to justify.