1. Introduction
a. Briefly introduce the electric vehicle you’re reviewing
The Volkswagen E-Golf is a battery-powered electric vehicle. The 2014 production model initially debuted at the e 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. VW began selling the e-Golf in Germany in February 2014. Production of the e-Golf stopped in December 2022, which was replaced by the ID.3.
b. Explain the context or significance of the vehicle in the EV market
The Volkswagen e-Golf offers comfort, practicality, and quality with the additional pull of zero-emission driving.
2. New Features in 2023
The Volkswagen e-Golf has no new features for 2023. It is no longer for sale, as it was already replaced by the ID.3.
3. Design and Aesthetics:
a. Exterior design and style
The e-Golf sports standard 16-inch alloy wheels and low rolling resistance tires. It also has the brand’s “e-Golf styling pack,” including custom-made front and rear bumpers, a rear roof spoiler, and side sills. A blue stripe on the radiator grille, custom C-shaped LED daytime running lights, and tinted LED rear lights are more aesthetic characteristics exclusive to the e-Golf.
Meanwhile, below are the dimension and weight details of the VW e-Golf:
| Items | Volkswagen E-Golf |
| Length | 4270 mm |
| Width | 1799 mm |
| Width with mirrors | No Data |
| Height | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2631 mm |
| Weight Unladen (EU) | 1615 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) | 2020 kg |
| Max. Payload | 480 kg |
| Cargo Volume | 341 L |
| Cargo Volume Max | 1231 L |
| Cargo Volume Frunk | No Data |
| Roof Load | 75 kg |
| Tow Hitch Possible | No Data |
| Towing Weight Unbraked | 0 kg |
| Towing Weight Braked | 0 kg |
| Vertical Load Max | No Data |
b. Interior design and materials
The e-Golf’s cabin is spacious and upscale, featuring multiple quality materials and a stylish appearance. The leather steering wheel has an e-Golf emblem and some blue stitching. On the gear knob, there is an additional logo. The e-Golf’s interior is just as cozy and well-thought-out as the conventional car. It has a very mature vibe with stylish switches placed exactly where you’d like them.
c. Build quality and fit and finish
The interior of the e-Golf is just as luxurious as that of considerably more expensive premium vehicles. It definitely has a high-end feel, from the muffled thump of the door closing to the smoothness of the leather-covered steering wheel. Everything you touch has a high-end sense, even the switchgear, which runs with gratifying solidarity.
d. Ergonomics and comfort
As mentioned, the e-Golf offers a spacious and upmarket cabin. However, boot space is slightly smaller than a standard Golf.
Adjustments are available in the seats and steering wheel, so finding a comfortable driving position shouldn’t be too tough. The seats are flat and quite firm, which means you’ll move around a lot during sharp turns. As a standard, an adjustable lumbar support is installed.
e. Cargo space and storage
The e-Golf is huge enough for family use, with enormous space up front and fine head and legroom. It also offers effective storage areas, including a big glovebox, a handy storage area underneath the center armrest, and door pockets large enough to carry two-liter water bottles.
It also has more backspace, but it may be uncomfortable for three adults.
4. Performance and Driving Dynamics:
a. Powertrain and battery specifications
Performance
| Powertrain | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Total Power | 100 kW (136 PS) |
| Total Torque | 290 Nm |
| Drive | Front |
| Battery | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Nominal Capacity | 35.8 kWh |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Number of Cells | 264 |
| Architecture | 400 V |
| Useable Capacity* | 32.0 kWh |
| Cathode Material | NCM333 |
| Pack Configuration | 88s3p |
| Nominal Voltage | 325 V |
b. Acceleration and top speed
| Items | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h |
c. Handling and ride quality
The e-Golf is entertaining to drive, with remarkable handling qualities. However, this emphasis on performance and engagement has a negative impact on efficiency.
d. Braking performance
With the regenerative braking set to maximum, the e-Golf will bring you to a stop rather quickly as soon as you lift off the gas, so you hardly ever need to touch the brakes. If you find that too weirdly futuristic, you may reduce the effect of the regen braking, at this point, the e-Golf drives just like a regular Golf: well-made, sturdy, and enjoyable to maneuver.
e. Regenerative braking
Drivers can raise or reduce the level of regenerative braking of the e-Golf. It is preferable in its most rigorous level-four configuration, particularly in urban areas. As soon as you let up on the accelerator, this utilizes the electric motor to slow the vehicle down, gathering energy and recharging the battery.
5. Range, Charging, and Efficiency:
a. EPA-estimated range and real-world range
| Items | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| EPA range | 125 miles |
| EVDB Real Range | 190 km |
| NEDC Ratings | 300 km |
| WLTP Ratings | 232 km |
b. Charging options and infrastructure
Charging
| Home / Destination | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Charge Port | Type 2 |
| Port Location | Right Side – Rear |
| Charge Power | 7.2 kW AC |
| Charge Time (0->190 km) | 5h15m |
| Charge Speed | 36 km/h |
| Fast Charging | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Fastcharge Port | CCS |
| FC Port Location | Right Side – Rear |
| Fastcharge Power (max) | 40 kW DC |
| Fastcharge Time (19->152 km) | 36 min |
| Fastcharge Speed | 220 km/h |
c. Charging times for various charging levels (Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging)
Home and Destination Charging (0 -> 100%)
| Charging PointType 2 (Mennekes – IEC 62196) | Max. Power | Power | Time | Rate |
| Wall Plug (2.3 kW) | 230V / 1x10A | 2.3 kW | 16h30m | 12 km/h |
| 1-phase 16A (3.7 kW) | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW | 10h15m | 19 km/h |
| 1-phase 32A (7.4 kW) | 230V / 1x31A | 7.2 kW † | 5h15m | 36 km/h |
| 3-phase 16A (11 kW) | 230V / 2x16A | 7.2 kW † | 5h15m | 36 km/h |
| 3-phase 32A (22 kW) | 230V / 2x16A | 7.2 kW † | 5h15m | 36 km/h |
† = Limited by on-board charger, vehicle cannot charge faster.
Fast Charging (10 -> 80%)
| Charging PointCombined Charging System (CCS Combo 2) | Max. Power | Avg. Power | Time | Rate |
| CCS (50 kW DC) | 40 kW † | 39 kW † | 36 min | 220 km/h |
† = Limited by on-board charger, vehicle cannot charge faster.
d. Energy consumption and efficiency
Energy Consumption
| EVDB Real Range | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Range | 190 km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 168 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 1.9 l/100km |
| NEDC Ratings | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Range | 300 km |
| Rated Consumption | 129 Wh/km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 107 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km |
| Rated Fuel Equivalent | 1.4 l/100km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 1.2 l/100km |
| WLTP Ratings | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Range | 232 km |
| Rated Consumption | 153 Wh/km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 138 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km |
| Rated Fuel Equivalent | 1.7 l/100km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 1.5 l/100km |
6. Vehicle Miscellaneous
| Items | Volkswagen e-Golf |
| Seats | 5 people |
| Isofix | Yes, 2 seats |
| Turning Circle | 10.9 m |
| Platform | VW MQB |
| Car Body | Hatchback |
| Segment | C – Medium |
| Roof Rails | No |
| EV Dedicated Platform | No |
7. Infotainment and Connectivity:
a. Dashboard and instrument cluster
The e-Golf’s dashboard controls have been concentrated on the central touchscreen. It has a 9.2-inch display without many physical buttons.
b. Infotainment system and features
As mentioned, the e-Golf now features a 9.2-inch display, which is easy to use owing to its smooth graphics and fast responses.
It now has no physical buttons, which some may find disfavor. You can also have a 12.3-inch digital TFT dash display for £495, offering a more modern feel.
In addition, it also features the brand’s Car-Net smartphone app, which allows you to remotely control the car’s AC and charging time and navigate the last parking location.
c. Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
e. Over-the-air software updates
Volkswagen supports over-the-air software update in its electric cars.
8. Safety and Driver Assistance:
a. Driver assistance and safety systems (ADAS)
The e-Golf comes standard with the following driver assistance features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Front Assist
- Blind Spot Sensor
- Park Assist
- Side Assist
- Lane Assist
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Emergency Assist
It also has the following parking and maneuvering features:
- Trailer assist
- Rear view camera
- Parking sensors
- Park assist
- Electronic parking brake
- Auto hold
- Area view
9. Reliability, Maintenance and Warranty:
a. Reliability and build quality concerns
In general, electric vehicles are very dependable. The Volkswagen e-Golf is proving to be dependable thanks to its electric motor and battery pack, which don’t have an engine to break down. The Volkswagen e-Golf has had very few common problems reported. Yet, the brand was among the top 10 in the most recent HonestJohn.co.uk Satisfaction Index.
b. Maintenance and service requirements
- 10,000-Mile Service Intervals: oil and filter replacement, brake pads inspection, and a service interval display reset (if applicable)
- 20,000-, 40,000-, 60,000-miles: oil and filter replacement, automatic headlight controls, battery, brake fluid, coolant levels check, leakage inspection, and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), tire tread, inflation and wiper blades inspection.
c. Warranty coverage and options
- Basic warranty: 36 months/36,000miles
- Corrosion perforation warranty: 144 months/ unlimited distance
- Powertrain warranty: 60 months/60,000miles
- Roadside assistance coverage: 36 months/36,000miles
- Traction battery warranty: 96 months/100,000miles
d. Insurance costs and considerations
| Volkswagen E-Golf Trim Level | Annual Policy | Per Month |
| SE Hatchback | $1,658 | $138 |
| SEL Premium Hatchback | $1,750 | $146 |
e. Resale value and depreciation
A 2019 Volkswagen e-GOLf is expected to depreciate by 31% over the course of five years. Its value is anticipated to drop by about $7,556 over the course of five years, from its original price of about $24,375 to $16,819.
10. Comparison to Competitors:
a. Compare the reviewed EV to its key competitors in terms of design, performance, range, and pricing
| Items | Volkswagen e-Golf | Nissan Leaf |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec | 7.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 150 km/h | 144 km/h |
| Battery | 35.8 kWh | 40.0 kWh |
| WLTP Range | 232 km | TEL: 285 kmTEH: 270 km |
| Total Power | 100 kW (136 PS) | 110 kW (150 PS) |
| Total Torque | 290 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive | Front | Front |
| Pricing | £28,075 | £28,995 |
b. Discuss the unique selling points and drawbacks of the reviewed EV compared to its competitors
The VW e-Golf is faster at 150 km/h than the Nissan Leaf, with a 144 km/h top speed. Its cost is also less than the Nissan Leaf at £28,075 in the UK. However, the Nissan Leaf can accelerate faster at 7.9 sec from 0 – 100 km/h. It is also equipped with a larger 40.0 kWh battery, which generates a range of 285 km in WLTP’s Test Energy Low and 270 km in Test Energy High. The Leaf’s torque and horsepower are also more potent than the e-Golf, as shown in the table above.
11. Variants and Pricing:
a. List the available trim levels, options, and pricing
Price
| Markets | Pricing |
| United Kingdom | £28,075 |
| The Netherlands | €34,005 |
| Germany | €31,900 |
b. Discuss the value proposition and whether the vehicle is worth the investment
The e-Golf is a remarkable family hatchback in the form of the VW Golf. It adds an electric powertrain, offering outstanding acceleration and refinement levels that rival much more expensive luxury vehicles.
12. Conclusion:
a. Summarize your overall impressions of the electric vehicle
The Volkswagen e-Golf is an ultra-refined electric car with excellent driving quality. It also has a sophisticated interior with many standard features. However, it is not the cheapest option in the market.
b. Provide a recommendation for potential buyers
The e-Golf is a safe option for families, with various standard safety features like autonomous emergency braking and Isofix points for child safety seats. Euro NCAP gave basic Golf a commendable five-star rating after testing it in 2014.
However, Volkswagen e-Golfs that are brand new are no longer available. The Volkswagen ID.3, an electric hatchback has already replaced it.
