CHOOSE DIESEL PETROL,HYBRID BUT NO E GOLF

If Volkswagen’s ID electric range points to the zero-emissions future, the Golf’s drivetrain line-up is firmly anchored in the present, if with a 48-volt mild-hybrid twist to make sure it doesn’t look like yesterday’s news.

The range kicks off with 89 and 110bhp turbo’d 1.0-litre triples, before jumping to four cylinders and 1.5 litres, and rising in output to 128bhp and 148bhp. All of these engines carry TSI badging. New mild-hybrid eTSI motors, available in 108bhp, 128bhp and 148bhp forms, add a 48-volt starter-generator, lithium-ion battery pack and brake-energy recuperation, but limit you to a seven-speed DSG transmission.

The mild-hybrid tech promises small increases in economy and acceleration, but for a more substantial hybrid kick you’ll need the 242bhp GTE. This electrified 1.4-litre TSI is largely carried over from the old GTE, but its 13kWh battery is now 50 per cent bigger, and promises you’ll go further than the 31 clean miles its predecessor allowed.

If you spend your time ploughing the motorway, rather than nipping across town, you’ll be pleased to know Dieselgate hasn’t killed off the diesel Golf. The 1.6 TDI does die, but it’s replaced by a low-tune 113bhp version of a 2.0-litre four that’s also available with 148bhp, and with either a manual or DSG paddleshift ’box.

There’s also a GTD to come, along with the inevitable GTI and four-wheel-drive Golf R. But don’t hold your breath for a fully electric e-Golf. ‘We have the ID3 for customers looking for a fully electric family car,’ says Hempe.

What’s the best combination? Volkswagen’s own drivetrain engineers reckon the sweet spot in the range is the high-power (148bhp) eTSI thanks to its quicker pick-up and almost 20lb ft of additional torque. ⊲ The Mk8’s drivetrain line-up is firmly anchored in the present