Volkswagen will present its new Golf GTE plug-in hybrid at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show. This is a significant milestone for the European automotive market, as the Continent’s most popular model line will now be available with a range of powertrains (gas, diesel, CNG, PHEV and fully electric).

The Golf GTE has a 1.4-liter, 148 hp turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine; a 101 hp electric motor, integrated into the transmission housing; an 8.8 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery; and a six-speed DSG automatic transmission that was developed specifically for hybrid vehicles. An electro-mechanical brake servo and an electric air-conditioning compressor are designed to ensure optimal and energy-efficient operation of the brakes and AC.

System power is 201 hp, and maximum torque is 258 lb-ft. In electric mode, top speed is 81 mph. In hybrid mode, top speed is 135 mph (only on the autobahn, mind you), and 0-62 mph takes 7.6 seconds. According to VW, combined fuel economy will be 157 mpg, and all-electric range is 31 miles.

VW’s pick-your-powertrain policy (similar to Ford’s strategy with its Fusion/Focus line) is enabled by the Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) platform, which allows the new Golf to accept all drive types. Golf models with different powertrains can be manufactured “from bumper to bumper” at Volkswagen factories.

 According to Autoblog, VW has no current plans to bring the Golf GTE to the US market.

Source: Volkswagen, Autoblog