Across the range, the tech count has been upped, now including, “semi-autonomous driving modes with adaptive cruise control that will automatically adjust the car’s speed to the relevant limit, and even to take into account oncoming bends in the road. A head-up display, and wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and phone charging will be available but are likely to be optional.” However the UK’s finalised spec is to be confirmed. It is predicted to create a £36,000 starting figure for the GTE saloon, and £38,000 for the estate.
Auto Express continues, commenting on the GTE Estate’s performance, “30 miles seems achievable in good weather, unless you plan on regularly taking advantage of the car’s 80mph maximum speed under pure-electric power.” The remarkable 1.4 TSI engine is, “smooth and punchy, while also impressively quiet at a steady cruise.” Auto Express admires the battery of the GTE, stating that it takes only five and a half hours to charge, plugged into a regular three-pin socket.
However, Auto Express explains their requests for a “smoother initial throttle response at manoeuvring speeds”, yet also describes the steering, stating that it, “weights up evenly and gives you a good sense of the grip available from the front-wheel drive chassis.”
Auto Express admires the Estate, “the classy interior finish, glossy 8.0-inch touchscreen and clever powertrain, it’s a slick, hassle-free car that promises to be efficient and practical.” Despite losing space for a spare tire due to the batteries, the boot is unaffected and the Estate includes rear seats that drop, to extend the space.
Auto Express finishes with this statement, “It’s the full, uncompromised family estate experience – but with all the added benefits of electric power thrown in.”
Read the full Auto Express article on the new Volkswagen Passat GTE Estate here.