The VW GOLF GTE PHEV 1.5 TSi eHybrid 272PS is a performance-oriented, plug-in hybrid hatchback with a 5-door body and a DSG automatic gearbox. It has 272 horsepower, a 0-62 mph time of 6.6 seconds, and a top speed of 143 mph. The vehicle features a 1.5-liter petrol engine, a 19.7 kWh battery, and a WLTP electric range of 82 miles.
Key features and technology
Driving assist: Includes adaptive cruise control (ACC), travel assist, and traffic jam assist
Handling: Features an XDS electronic differential lock and optional adaptive chassis control (DCC)
Infotainment: Updated 12.9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch Digital Cockpit Pro, and enhanced voice control with ChatGPT integration
Comfort and convenience: Standard premium sports seats, manual seat height adjustment, and a range of connectivity features like a head-up display and wireless charging
Interior and practicality
Seating: 5 seats
Boot space: 273 liters with the rear seats up
Expert Reviews & Features
Performance and Handling: Reviewers from Business Car praise the GTE for its impressive performance and handling, noting that the combination of the 1.5-litre engine and electric motor delivers "proper hot hatch performance". The handling is described as superb for a PHEV, with direct steering and a responsive chassis, benefiting from an electronic differential. However, some testers observe that the extra weight of the battery makes it less agile or fun than the petrol-only GTI sibling on demanding roads.
Efficiency and Running Costs: A significant advantage of the updated GTE is its larger battery, which helps achieve a low Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) company car tax rate (around 5%) in the UK, making it an appealing option for fleet drivers. Real-world fuel economy can exceed 90mpg with regular charging, although if the battery is depleted and you rely solely on the petrol engine, this drops to around 40mpg.
Interior and Technology: The interior features a modern "Innovision cockpit" with a 12.9-inch central touchscreen and a digital instrument panel. Standard equipment is generous, including Matrix LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear view camera. A point of contention among some reviewers is the reliance on touch-sensitive controls for nearly all functions, including climate control, which can be fiddly to use while driving.
