Volkswagen introduces full hybrid models

Volkswagen has introduced a full hybrid powertrain for its Golf and T-Roc models, offering two versions with 136 hp and 170 hp. The hybrid Golf is now available in five different powertrains: petrol, diesel, micro-hybrid, HEV, and PHEV.

CO2 emissions and penalties

The 170 hp hybrid Golf emits 104 g of CO2, which will not be subject to a penalty in 2026 and is expected to cost 75 euros in 2027, compared to 280 and 450 euros for a Golf eTSi 150. HEV powertrains represent about 20 percent of new car sales in France.

Market strategy and expansion

Volkswagen has decided to offer a full hybrid powertrain to meet the demand from the European market, especially in France and Italy. The first models to feature this technology are the Golf 8 and the T-Roc, with the latter's second generation available since 2026. This technology will be expanded to many other models across all brands.

Hybrid driving modes and efficiency

The new hybrid powertrain allows the Golf to drive in 100% electric mode for only a few kilometers. The presence of the electric motor allows for additional power and reduces fuel consumption. Volkswagen combines different operating phases with three driving modes: electric, hybrid "series," and hybrid "parallel."

Powertrain specifications

The powertrain can operate according to five different strategies: 100% electric mode, hybrid "series" mode, hybrid "parallel" mode, thermal mode, and thermal mode with assistance from the electric motor. The powertrain is built around a 4-cylinder 1.5 TSi evo 2 petrol engine, which does not have the ACT cylinder deactivation system.

Fuel efficiency and testing

The TSi engine is accompanied by two electric motors and a NMC battery with a gross capacity of 1.64 kWh. The manufacturer announces a fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reduction of 10 to 15 percent compared to a less powerful 1.5 eTSI micro-hybrid version. It is even 35 percent in urban traffic. According to the WLTP homologation cycle, the Golf hybrid shows an average of 4.6 l/100 km and 104 g/km average low. However, in a test on a winding mountain road, the average consumption after more than 120 km was 6.8 l/100 km.

Design and space considerations

The hybrid Golf benefits from no modifications and its road behavior is the same as that of the other models in the range. However, the boot volume is lower than that of the classic Golf due to the battery placed under the floor. The loading volume is now only 273 liters, 108 liters less than the classic model. The same observation applies when the rear seats are folded down: the volume goes to 1,129 liters instead of 1,237.

Availability and user experience

The hybrid Golf is available in two power outputs (136 and 170 hp), but only the most powerful version is in the catalog at the start of the sale. The advantages of the Volkswagen Golf hybrid include general pleasure of driving, controlled consumption, and reduction of environmental penalty. The disadvantages include boot volume reduction and noise at high RPM.