Volkswagen Golf GTE performance, top speed & engine

The VW Golf GTE uses what is now becoming a familiar powertrain in plug-in hybrid VW Group products – a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine assisted by an electric motor that's fed by a 13kWh battery. The result is 242bhp and 400Nm of torque, put to the road via VW's trusty six-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox. You'll find the same setup in the Skoda Octavia vRS iV, Cupra Leon e-Hybrid and Cupra Formentor.

Another familiar part of the GTE experience is that this drivetrain can be operated in a number of modes, running on pure-electric or combined hybrid power as required, or holding on to the battery's charge for later in a journey if needed. If you've chosen the optional adaptive dampers, you can also pick between varying levels of sporty intent from the car's chassis – we reckon Comfort mode strikes the best balance, however.

Volkswagen Golf GTE 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration

There's plenty of power on tap in the Golf GTE – especially with a fully charged battery. The 0-62mph sprint takes 6.7 seconds in Sport mode and there's similarly urgent acceleration whenever you need it, provided you don't mind making the most of the slightly unrefined engine, which can get a bit noisy when pushed hard.

Handling

If you happen to test-drive a Golf GTE right after its Golf GTI counterpart, the most noticeable difference will be in the car's weight. Due to the hybrid system and battery, there's an extra 176kg to carry around and you'll notice it most in corners; while the steering is accurate, the GTE doesn't feel quite as keen to change direction as its lighter sibling. Still, in isolation, this is a swift, controlled and good-to-drive car that won't leave many keener drivers disappointed.