EV Review: 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf

Photo Credits: Volkswagen, Car and Driver

Goodbye, Gas Pedal. Hello, Joy Pedal.

Overview

Performance: All-Electric, 35.8 kWh battery pack, 134 horsepower

Mileage estimate: Equivalent to 105-126 mpg 

Price estimate: From $32,790 to $39,790

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Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles

Roadside Assistance: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Corrosion Warranty: 12 years / unlimited

Volkswagen e-Golf 2019 Review

Intro

Volkswagen stood up to its transgressions several years ago. While its emissions wrongdoing led to public relations that reportedly cost Volkswagen more than $30 million, there was a ray of light in the scandal. In a dramatic reboot, Volkswagen decided to reinvent itself, pouring an estimated $50 billion into the production of electric vehicles.

In an announcement in late October 2019, Volkswagen revealed it has plans to build 22 million electric vehicles (EVs) over the next eight years. And nearly half of those EVs will be manufactured in China. By 2022, the company expects to have eight facilities around the world that are producing battery-powered vehicles.

Volkswagen’s October announcement also includes news regarding the popular Golf, which ranks third among best-selling models of all-time, trailing the Toyota Corolla and Ford F-Series.

The all-new, eighth-generation 2020 Volkswagen Golf was introduced Oct. 24 in Europe. VW has made a significant departure from its 2019 Golf lineup that has historically included lots of variety. That diversity is not changing – the 2020 Golf has no fewer than 10 powertrains to pick from and includes two plug-in hybrids and three hybrid variants.

Exterior Style

There’s been no attempt at making the e-Golf radically different physically than other Golf models, a trait that’s appreciated here since some EV manufacturers feel compelled to make a blatant exterior statement so the vehicle looks “different.”

Interior Space

The interior material is of good quality and the location of buttons and knobs are sensible. The 8-inch standard touchscreen can be figured out and mastered quickly, thanks to its user-friendly makeup. The e-Golf comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Even taller drivers and front seat passengers will be pleased with the head and leg room. While not as spacious, the back seat is sizable enough that passengers won’t feel too cramped. The battery is located underneath the hatchback body, so there is no awkward hump that impedes storage in the cargo area. The area measures 22.8 cubic feet and increases to 52.7 cubic-feet when the a 60/40-split back seat is folded down.

Range and Charging

A year ago, Volkswagen increased the e-Golf’s mileage range from 83 to 125 miles. While some other EVs, most notably the Chevy Bolt, possess much greater range, going 125 miles before a charge is required would certainly suffice for many commuters.

Changes for the 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf include a standard DC fast charger and advanced driver aids on the base SE trim model.

Battery and Performance

The e-Golf has a 35.8 kWh battery pack and features 134 horsepower, and a mileage estimate of 105-126 mpge. Driving the e-Golf doesn’t feel that much different than other Golf models that utilize a four-cylinder engine.

The suspension is a modified in the e-Golf, a necessity with the added weight of the battery pack (701 pounds). Despite the added weight, he e-Golf corners well and gives the driver an overall feeling of confidence behind the wheel. Drivers have a choice of using Normal, Eco or Eco Plus modes.

Conclusion

Change is imminent, and that includes the e-Golf. Volkswagen says 2019 is the last year it will be offering the e-Golf in the U.S. Volkswagen hasn’t decided when or if it will bring the mainstream 2020 versions of the Golf to the U.S. The company is expected to make available the high-performance 2020 GTI and R models at an undetermined date. But the regular Golf is not likely to be included.

Replacing the e-Golf will be the 2020 ID.3, the first all-electric production car to be featured on VW’s Modular Electrification (MEB) system. The IB.3 will have three different battery sizes that have a range between 205 to 341 miles before it needs recharging. At least initially, the ID.3 won’t be offered in U.S. markets.

However, it’s not too late for U.S. car buyers to purchase the 2019 e-Golf. It remains an appealing EV for a number of reasons, including the possibility of a reduced sticker price.

–  J.W.