VW e-Golf Offers Buyers More For Their Money

Volkswagen, apparently recognizing that everyone likes getting more for their money, has improved the e-Golf, the automaker’s current major electric vehicle, giving it a longer range, better equivalent fuel economy and more power than its predecessor. VW's 150 millionth models is an e-Golf

The 2017 e-Golf SE, the line’s base model, carries a suggested retail price of $30,495.

E-Golf features improved lithium-ion battery

According to the automaker, the e-Golf uses an updated lithium-ion battery that offers increased energy capacity. The 2017 e-Golf features 35.8 kWh, while the former version featured 24.2, an increase of about 10 percent. The improved battery boosts the range of the e-Golf from 83 to 125 miles on a charge.

Charging the battery is handled by a 7.2 kW onboard charger, now standard on all trim levels of the electric vehicle. The charger can bring the battery up to full charge in less than six hours at a 240V charging station. The e-Golf also offers a DC Fast Charging option. The fast-charger brings the battery up to an 80 percent charge within an hour using the fast-charger.

In addition to the battery and charging changes, there is an upgraded electric motor. The 2016 model features an 85 kW electric motor that could develop 115 horsepower. The 2017 e-Golf, on the other hand, has a 100 kW motor, that can produce 134 horsepower. Maximum torque is also up from 199 pound-feet to 214. And the 2017 e-Golf is quicker to 60 than its predecessor – 9.6 seconds – while the top speed is up to 85 mph

The technological changes have made the 2017 e-Golf much more wallet-friendly. Using 13 cents per kWh, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put the annual fuel cost at $550, only one saving. There is still a federal electric vehicle tax credit of up to $7,500 which also knocks the purchase price to $23,100. Also, there may be other state and other credits available.

The e-Golf typifies how the automaker us updated the styling of the Golf family of cars. There is new styling inside and out that gives the e-Golf a new look for 2017. And, there are new colors, restyled bumpers, front fenders, headlights, grille and décor changes. Finally, the seat trim has been upgraded, as well.

Three e-Golf models available

Among the features of the e-Golf are:

• e-Golf SE -- $30,495 – more standard equipment that includes an 8-inch glass-covered touchscreen display, LED taillights, cruise control, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and 7.2 kW onboard charger. The Fast Charging package is available.
• e-Golf Limited Edition -- $33,795 – includes all of the features of the SE, adding fast-charging V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces, Park Distance Control (ParkPilot), which helps drivers avoid or lessen the effects of a collision with stationary objects, while parking.
• e-Golf SEL Premium -- $36,995 – adds an optional Driver Assistance package, including a 12.3-inch VW Digital Cockpit instrument cluster; Adaptive Cruise Control; Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring (Front Assist), Lane Assist; Blind-spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, Park Assist and Light Assist.

Source: Volkswagen