Volkswagen of America Inc. has announced the pricing of the 2017 e-Golf, which has a starting MSRP of $30,495 plus destination ($820).
For the 2017 model, Volkswagen is using an updated lithium-ion battery with an increased energy capacity of 35.8 kWh, up from 24.2 kWh. According to the automaker, the revised battery helps increase the vehicle’s range from an EPA-estimated total range of 83 miles to 125 miles on a single charge.
Further, the 7.2 kW on-board charger is now standard on all trims, enabling the battery to be charged in less than six hours at a 240 V charging station. When equipped with DC fast charging (optional on SE, standard on Limited Edition and SEL Premium), the battery can be charged up to 80% within an hour at a DC fast charging station.
An improved battery chemistry also helps improve the overall fuel economy of the vehicle. For city driving, the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 126 MPGe; highway driving is rated at 111 MPGe; and combined city/highway is 119 MPGe, improved over the 2016 EPA estimates of 126, 105 and 116, respectively.
The electric motor on the 2017 e-Golf has been upgraded, as well. Whereas the 2016 e-Golf used an 85 kW electric motor developing 115 horsepower, the new 100 kW electric motor develops 134 horsepower. At the same time, the maximum torque of the electric motor has been boosted from 199 lb.-ft. to 214 lb-ft. The vehicle also does 0-60 mph faster than its predecessor – now in just 9.6 seconds – and its top speed increases to 85 mph, notes VW.
Based on 13 cents per kilowatt-hour, the EPA has estimated an annual fuel cost of just $550. In addition, a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 is available for purchasers; dependent on the state, additional credits may also be available.
Aesthetically, says the automaker, new styling inside and out modernizes the overall appearance of the 2017 e-Golf: It offers new color options and restyled bumpers, front fenders, headlights, grille and décor, along with a revised seat trim inside.
The e-Golf SE ($30,495) offers an eight-inch, glass-covered touchscreen display; LED taillights; cruise control; a leather-wrapped, multifunction steering wheel; and a 7.2 kW on-board charger. A DC Fast Charging package is available for $995.
The e-Golf Limited Edition ($33,795) includes the myriad standard features of the SE trim and adds DC fast charging capability; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; park distance Control (ParkPilot); and a new feature called maneuver braking, which can help drivers avoid or mitigate the effects of a collision with stationary objects while parking.
The e-Golf SEL Premium ($36,995) offers an optional driver assistance package ($1,395), including the 12.3-inch 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 alerts; park assist; and light assist.