The Golf GTI, has a hallowed place in the heart of most hot hatch enthusiasts, garnering a rather large cult following in South Africa. Hoping to add to this tradition, Volkswagen has now unveiled a new electric-hybrid powered Golf, set to make its official debut as this year’s hotly anticipated Geneva Motor Show.

Under the bonnet, the GTE’s plug-in hybrid engine (similar system to the Nissan Leaf) combines a 1.4 litre turbo and electric motor, generating an impressive total of 186 kW. This means the GTE can reach a top speed of 217 km/h and a 0-100 km/h time of 7.6 seconds. Volkswagen has also fitted the e-Golf with six-speed dual-clutch gearbox as well as some blue exterior trim and LED lighting.

The battery in question for the Golf GTE, is said to require a mere 12 kW/100 km, this translates to an equivalent €3.28 per 100 km which comes to just under R50 in SA terms (depending of course on financial exchange rates). This makes the GTE 15% more energy efficient than its petrol guzzling competitor, according to Volkswagen.

Availability for the GTE, sees it limited to a European release for now, with plans to export further a field in the not too distant future.