Volkswagen is getting a lot mileage out of its engineering departments lately. First Volkswagen produces the new MQB architecture that will form the underpinnings of almost every small to medium sized model that will be produced across the entire range of Volkswagen owned auto groups. This includes the all-new Mk 7 Golf. Volkswagen is taking that Golf and making a new GTI, a new Golf R, and will even be bringing the hotted up diesel GTD to our shores.
Now, according to Autocar Volkswagen looks to make one more Golf variation by using the powertrain from the upcoming Audi A3 E-Tron plug-in hybrid. See, using its massive collective R&D to create more vehicles. What that means is that the GTE will be a plug in hybrid version of the GTI. That also means that the GTE will be powered by a combination of a 148 horsepower turbocharged gasoline engine and a 107 horsepower electric motor. Combined, they will send power through a six-speed automatic to the front wheels, and Autocar says the car will hit 62 mph in about 7.6 seconds. That places its performance on par with the diesel powered GTD, but thanks to its plug-in hybrid architecture, it should provide even better fuel economy.
Expect the new car to feature styling similar to the GTI and GTD cars we have pictured in our galleries. We would love to see this new hybrid Golf sold in US stores, but don’t hold your breath. The chances of such a scenario are slim.
As a parting note, there is no word on plaid seats, but we hope that changes. Plaid seats are awesome.
