Volkswagen e-Golf 35.8 kWh

Overview

The 2020 Volkswagen e-Golf 35.8 kWh represents the swan song for VW's electric hatchback based on the much-loved Golf platform. It’s a familiar, practical package offering a taste of electric driving without any radical design departures. Key highlights include its solid German build quality, comfortable ride, and surprisingly spacious interior for a compact. While discontinued, it’s available on the used market, with this particular configuration typically priced around $10,900. It’s a sensible first step into EV ownership if you don’t need bleeding-edge range or tech, but want proven Golf DNA.

What's New for 2020?

For 2020, the e-Golf 35.8 kWh was largely a carryover model, marking its final year of production before VW’s ID family took center stage. The significant upgrade to the 35.8 kWh battery pack (32 kWh usable) happened back in 2017, boosting its appeal considerably. So, for its last hurrah in the US, you got a refined version of that updated package. This meant familiar styling, established tech, and known performance, making it a predictable, if not revolutionary, choice in its segment. No major new gizmos, just the classic e-Golf experience bowing out gracefully.

Design & Exterior

The 2020 e-Golf 35.8 kWh plays it cool, looking almost identical to its petrol-powered siblings, which is a big plus for many. You get those classic, crisp Golf lines in a practical hatchback shape. Subtle EV cues include a closed-off grille with a blue accent strip, unique C-shaped LED daytime running lights, and aero-optimized wheels. Dimensionally, it's a tidy package: 168.1 inches long, 70.8 inches wide (excluding mirrors), and 57.2 inches tall. It’s understated electric mobility, perfect for blending in while still enjoying zero tailpipe emissions.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the 2020 e-Golf 35.8 kWh, and you’re greeted by a typically VW cabin: sensible, well-built, and ergonomically sound. Materials feel good for the class, and there's decent space for five passengers. Cargo wise, you get a useful 22.8 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to a generous 52.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. No frunk here, though. Tech-wise, expect an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, likely VW's Composition Media with App-Connect, bringing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration, keeping you connected.

Performance & Driving Experience

Under the skin, the e-Golf 35.8 kWh packs a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) driving the front wheels. This setup delivers 100 kW (around 134 hp) and a healthy 214 lb-ft of instant torque. It’s not a rocket ship, with a 0-60 mph dash in 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 85 mph, but it feels nippy and responsive for city driving. The ride is comfortable, handling is typically Golf-predictable, and selectable regenerative braking modes help you claw back some energy. It’s a smooth operator!

Range, Battery & Charging

The 2020 e-Golf 35.8 kWh features a 32 kWh usable battery pack, providing a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 119 miles. Energy efficiency is a respectable 3.72 mi/kWh. For charging, the standard 7.2 kW on-board AC charger can top up the battery from empty in roughly 5-6 hours – perfect for overnight home charging via its CCS Type 1 port. On the go, DC fast charging is capped at 40 kW, which can juice it up to 80% in about 40-45 minutes. Solid, if not class-leading, figures.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While an official NHTSA rating isn't listed for this specific configuration, the standard Golf platform typically performs well, and the e-Golf proudly wears a 5-star Euro NCAP badge. For 2020 US models, the e-Golf 35.8 kWh came reasonably equipped with standard driver-assistance features. These generally included Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Traffic Alert. This suite provided a solid safety net, enhancing driver confidence and contributing to a secure feeling on the road for this compact electric hatchback.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

For a 2020 Volkswagen e-Golf 35.8 kWh, expect Volkswagen’s new vehicle limited warranty of that era, which was typically 4 years or 50,000 miles. The critical high-voltage battery usually carries a more extensive warranty, often in the realm of 8 years or 100,000 miles, covering against excessive degradation. Powertrain coverage would typically mirror the basic vehicle warranty. As an EV, maintenance is generally less intensive than a gasoline car, with no oil changes needed. Always verify specific warranty details for any used model.