2021 Volkswagen Golf GTE Photos, engines & full specs

Volkswagen introduced the eighth generation of the Golf in 2019 and expanded the engine lineup with the GTE plug-in hybrid version in early 2020.

The electrified version of the Golf came during the world pandemic, so its sales started slow. Still, that didn't stop the German automaker from producing it and having it ready for better times. This electrified version of the Golf's eighth generation targeted customers who wanted to pollute less and still enjoy the performance of a hot-hatch. Furthermore, the styling was unique for this model and boasted a comprehensive safety package. Last but not least, customers could recharge their car's 13-kWh battery at home from a regular power outlet.

The GTE came with the same front fascia as its stablemates, featuring organic-shaped headlights that combined rounded lower edges with sharp lines. An LED daytime running light that looked like eyebrows adorned the headlights and was extended above the main grille. As a GTE-unique signature design feature, the automaker added a blue line on the outer upper corners of the headlamps. The car's bumper looked aggressive with its broad and tall grille that was flanked by side scoops and C-shaped trims. Furthermore, Volkswagen offered hexagonal-shaped LED fog integrated into the side scoops that sported a honeycomb mesh.

From its sides, the GTE boasted its red-painted calipers behind the large alloy wheels that were fitted as standard. Also, a keen eye for detail could notice the flap on the front left fender where the automaker added the charging port. To improve the sporty character of the car, Volkswagen added piano-black trims on the B-pillars and LED blinkers into the door mirror caps. At the back, the raked-forward tailgate featured a roof spoiler at the top, while the rear fascia shared the same design layout as the rest of the Golf MK8 range, with the only difference being the GTE badge mounted on the tailgate. Lower, under the bumper, Volkswagen added fake exhausts on the sides and a chromed trim.

Inside, at the front, the automaker added high-bolstered seats that supported their occupants during high-speed cornering. The driver fronted an instrument cluster where a 10-inch display could be configured. In addition, atop the center stack, the automaker added a touchscreen for the infotainment system. Unfortunately, that didn't feature a turn-volume knob but a touch-function. In the back, there was enough room for three passengers, although the center tunnel that crossed the car from front to back affected the middle-seated occupant's legroom.

However, the most significant improvement of the GTE was under its skin. Besides the 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine that produced 150 PS (148 hp), Volkswagen added an electric motor that had 85 kW (114 hp) for a combined total output of 245 PS (242 hp). The system was paired with a six-speed automatic (dual-clutch) gearbox that sent the power to the front wheels. Thanks to its 60 km (37-mile) range, the GTE could be used as an EV for daily tasks.