VW explores the Golf GTE’s tuning potential with two Wörthersee concepts

One focuses on performance, the other on driving range

Besides the Golf GTI First Decade and the e-up! GTI, Volkswagen's involvement at this year's Wörthersee Tour also includes two concepts based on the Golf GTE plug-in hybrid.

VW Golf GTE Performance Concept

With this study, VW has boosted the plug-in hybrid drive system of the Golf GTE production car from 201 hp (204 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) to 268 hp (272 PS) and 450 Nm (331 lb-ft).

The result is a quicker car, although VW doesn't offer performance figures. To safely handle the extra grunt, the prototype features an upgraded braking system that uses 17-inch perforated discs and new calipers in the GTE Blue hue.

Styling-wise, the Golf GTE Performance Concept adopts an Electric White Mother of Pearl Effect paint (yes, that's the actual name), a contrasting black roof, blue accents on the paintwork, as well as blue and black 19-inch Pretoria wheels. The body is also spiced up with gloss black elements that include the side mirrors, air deflector elements in the front bumper, and side sills.

At the rear, the Golf GTE Performance Concept boasts Golf GTI-sourced exhaust tailpipes and diffuser, as well as the roof spoiler of the Golf GTI Clubsport.

Cabin highlights include leather sports seats and an Alcantara-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with blue "12 o'clock marking."

VW Golf GTE Estate impulsE

Although the Golf GTE plug-in hybrid drive system is not offered on the wagon body style, 14 apprentices from Volkswagen Sachsen have built just that: a Golf GTE Estate nicknamed "impulsE."

The main feature of the car is the prototype battery with a capacity increased from 8.8 to 16.8 kWh. VW says that effectively doubles driving range — 100 km compared to the production car's 50 km.

Design-wise, the concept car features a five-tone matt paintwork, perforated bonnet, and an interior that continues the body's color scheme. Blue stitching adorns the steering wheel, center console, gear knob, and door panels, while the leather/Alcantara bucket seats and animated ambient lighting serve to further spice things up in the cabin.