Volkswagen e-Golf

Overview: Is the Volkswagen e-Golf a Good Electric Car?

The Volkswagen e-Golf, sold in the U.S. from 2015 through 2019, represented the automaker's first foray into the all-electric vehicle market. Built on the familiar Golf platform, the e-Golf aimed to combine its gas-powered sibling's practicality and driving dynamics with a zero-emission electric drivetrain. As Green Car Reports noted in their first drive, this Golf electric car offered a “surprisingly complete, compelling” package for those looking to go gasless without sacrificing the familiar Golf experience. Eventually replaced by the MEB-platform Volkswagen ID.4 in 2021, the e-Golf paved the way for Volkswagen's broader electrification strategy.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Volkswagen e-Golf cars for sale.

Find a used Volkswagen e-Golf near me.

Related: The Volkswagen e-Golf Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Volkswagen e-Golf offers:

• Compact hatchback body style
• All-electric powertrain with zero emissions
• Familiar VW Golf styling and practicality
• Multi-level regenerative braking
• LED headlights and taillights
• Heat pump system for efficient climate control
• DC fast charging capability
• Volkswagen Car-Net app for remote vehicle monitoring

Trims

Volkswagen offered the e-Golf in two core trims:

• SE: Base model with essential features (the Limited Edition served as the base trim for 2015)
• SEL Premium: Added luxury and technology features

A Limited Edition (2017) and SEL (2018) trim was offered in later model years, positioned between SE and SEL Premium.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The e-Golf's cabin features a familiar Golf interior with electric-specific touches. The instrument cluster features a power meter instead of a traditional tachometer, while the infotainment system offers EV-specific information like range and charging station locations. Higher trims boast a larger 9.2-inch touchscreen, a stark contrast to the modest displays in some competing EVs of the time.

The e-Golf maintains the practicality that made the Golf name famous. With 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats (52.7 cubic feet with seats folded), it offers more utility than many electric hatchbacks. The flat load floor, uncompromised by battery intrusion, adds to the VW e-Golf’s versatility.

Review: Which Years Of Used Volkswagen e-Golfs Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The Volkswagen e-Golf delivers a driving experience that combines the familiar Golf handling with the instant torque of electric propulsion. Early models featured an electric motor producing 115 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, with later versions boosted to 134 horsepower and 214 lb-ft. This setup allows the e-Golf to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 9.5 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 93 mph. This EV is no GTI.

The e-Golf's battery pack capacity increased over its production run, from 24.2 kWh in early models to 35.8 kWh in later versions. This improvement extended the EPA-estimated range from 83 miles to 125 miles on a full charge. While not class-leading, it provided sufficient range for urban and suburban driving cycles.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) didn’t evaluate the VW e-Golf.

Reviews

Volkswagen e-Golf consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are universally positive, with an average rating of 5 out of 5. Owners praised the electric Golf’s reliability, quality, value, and comfort.

Learn More: Are Volkswagens Reliable? A Complete Breakdown

Volkswagen e-Golf FAQs

How many miles can the Volkswagen e-Golf go on a full charge?

The 2019 Volkswagen e-Golf's EPA-estimated range on a full charge is 125 miles, compared to 83 miles for earlier models.

How long will a Volkswagen e-Golf last?

The e-Golf's electric powertrain can last many years with proper maintenance. However, the vehicle’s relative newness makes a more precise longevity projection impossible now.

Does the Volkswagen e-Golf have a range extender?

No, the Volkswagen e-Golf is a pure electric vehicle and does not have a range extender or any gasoline engine component.

What is the zero to 60 on a Volkswagen e-Golf?

The Volkswagen e-Golf can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.5 seconds, with slight variations depending on the model year and battery capacity.

Check out a used Volkswagen e-Golf for sale.