VW Golf eHybrid

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Driving

This plug-in hybrid Golf pairs a 148bhp 1.5 TSI 150 petrol engine with an electric motor for a nifty 204bhp. The sporty GTE model, also available on the Motability Scheme, has a more potent 268bhp.

Electric-only mode is the default when you start the car, with a reported range of 88 miles, though this is more realistically between 68 and 73 miles on a full charge. You can select a 'hybrid' mode and set the amount of battery power you want to conserve for the end of your journey. Regenerative braking, which can be adjusted to slow the car to a walking pace, helps to recharge the battery. This combination allows drivers to maximise fuel efficiency, using electric power for city driving and petrol for longer trips, extending the range to over 450 miles from a full 40-litre tank of fuel.

In Eco and Comfort modes, the eHybrid handles the extra weight from the batteries well, encouraging a smooth driving style. However, this also means the car tends to roll through corners and is less responsive to sharp steering inputs. The seven-speed automatic gearbox is proficient at cruising speeds but lacks immediacy from a standstill. Activating Sport mode changes this, tightening the chassis, suspension, and throttle for a more engaging drive.

Interior

Most of the interior functions are controlled via a 12.9-inch central infotainment screen, which is positioned high on the dashboard and is easy to navigate with large, sharp icons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard. The touch-sensitive sliders for stereo volume and cabin temperature are fiddly, and can be confusing to use at night despite being backlit. Adjusting the air conditioning requires navigating a sub-menu on the screen.

A welcome change from previous models is the return of physical buttons on the steering wheel, which work well with the standard 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The interior of the eHybrid is well-assembled, featuring plenty of soft-touch surfaces that add a sense of quality.

Space and practicality

The car can comfortably accommodate four tall adults, with ample space in the front. Rear legroom is slightly compromised, but headroom is plentiful. A notable drawback of the eHybrid is the reduced boot space due to the battery, which brings the capacity down to 273 litres. A mobility scooter, like the TGA Whill R tested, will require folding down one or both rear seats to fit. Nevertheless, the boot is adequate for most loading tasks and has a shallow lip.

The doors open wide to a 64-degree angle, and the steering wheel's height, rake, and reach are all adjustable. Forward visibility is strong thanks to the large windscreen, but rear views are hindered by chunky pillars. This is mitigated by standard front and rear parking sensors and a rear parking camera. The seats in the Match trim have minimal bolstering, which becomes more pronounced in the Style and GTE trims.

Equipment

The Golf eHybrid is available in Match, Style, or GTE trims on the Scheme, all of which come well-equipped as standard. The Match package includes automatic headlights, exterior ambient lighting, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear-view parking camera. A comprehensive suite of safety features is also available, such as lane keeping and anti-collision systems.

Photos: Max Edleston/WHAT CAR?, Toyota, Cupra