If you’re interested in a small EV that doesn’t scream “look at me” and offers dynamic driving qualities and great versatility then you owe it to yourself to test-drive the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf.
Standard equipment for the 2016 e-Golfe SE includes power heated side mirrors, keyless entry, automatic headlights, alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents, rearview camera, automatic wipers, manual-slide / power-reclining front seats with heating and manual lumbar adjustment, 60/40-split folding rear seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, USB and auxiliary ports, an SD card reader, eight-speaker AM/FM/XM CD audio system with satellite and HD radio, VW’s MIB II system with smartphone integration, VW’s Car-Net telematics and a 6.5-inch touchscreen that provides for all manner of controls.
The e-Golf is powered by a synchronous permanent-magnet AC motor that develops a maximum of 115 horsepower and an impressive 199 pound-feet of torque in the default “Normal” driving mode. Power is reduced to 94 hp and 162 lb-ft in Eco mode and 74 hp and 129 lb-ft in Eco+ mode. The e-Golf sends its power to the front wheels via a single-speed transmission. Electric power is supplied by an under-floor lithium-ion battery pack with an overall capacity of 24.2 kWh.
Standard safety features for the 2016 VW e-Golf include antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and a post-crash braking system which automatically applies the brakes after an impact to reduce the likelihood of a secondary crash.