2017 Volkswagen e-Golf vs Leaf vs Focus Electric vs Fiat 500e
Combining the iconic VW Golf's stylish design, fun-to-drive nature and hatchback versatility with a fully-electric powertrain, the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf is an excellent choice for eco-minded compact car shoppers. In this 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf vs Leaf vs Focus Electric vs Fiat 500e comparison, we analyze a number of factors to show how the new e-Golf favorably stacks up against the compact electric car competition.
Compact electric cars typically don't have a reputation for high-level performance, but the 2017 e-Golf absolutely defies expectations. For nearly all of the metrics for measuring electric motor output, the new e-Golf easily outmuscles the competition. It's updated electric motor now generates an output of 100kW, while delivering 134 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. In comparison, the torque output for the Leaf, Focus Electric and Fiat 500e is 187, 184 and 147 lb-ft respectively. The impressive torque results in excellent acceleration for the e-Golf, with it achieving the 0 to 60 mph sprint in just 9.6 seconds. The e-Golf is also equipped with the XDS Cross Differential System, which helps give it excellent handling and cornering performance.
| Vehicle | 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf | 2017 Nissan Leaf | 2017 Ford Focus Electric | 2017 Fiat 500e |
| Motor Specs | 100 kW,134 hp and 214 lb-ft | 80kW, 107 hp and 187 lb-ft | 107 kW, 143 hp and 184 lb-ft | 83 kW, 111 hp and 147 lb-ft |
| Battery | 35.8 kWh | 30 kWh | 33.5 kWh | 24 kWh |
| Range (miles) | 125 | 107 | 115 | 84 |
| Efficiency (city/hwy/combined MPGe) | 126/111/119 | 124/101/112 | 118/96/107 | 121/103/112 |
Advantages and Benefits of 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf
A common concern for electric cars is "range anxiety," but the e-Golf helps alleviate this concern with its boost in range for the 2018 model-year. It now can achieve up to 125 miles of range on a full charge, compared to 107, 115 and 84 miles for the Leaf, Focus Electric and Fiat 500e. The e-Golf is more efficient as well, with EPA-estimated efficiency ratings of 125 city/119 hwy MPGe, compared to 124/101, 118/96 and 121/103 MPGe for the Leaf, Focus Electric and Fiat 500e. The 2017 e-Golf also features three driving profiles designed to preserve energy use — Normal, Eco and Eco+ — and a regenerative braking system can be used to help manage the vehicle's range.
Another strength of the 2017 e-Golf is its wide array of advanced technologies. This includes the MIB II infotainment system, VW-Car Net and keyless access with push-button start. Also, all e-Golf models are equipped with a new glass-covered 8.0-inch touchscreen display, which offers better color reproduction, response time and improved viewing angles. On the safety front, the e-Golf features the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System and available Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking.
If you live in Orange County and would like to find out more information about the 2017 e-Golf or wish to take it for a test drive, then don't hesitate to contact us at Capistrano Volkswagen!
