The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf is an all-electric variant of the popular Golf hatchback. It offers a practical and familiar driving experience with zero emissions. Available as a four-door hatchback, the 2016 e-Golf was offered in trims like Limited Edition, SE, and SEL Premium. New pricing ranged roughly from $29,000 to $36,000 before incentives. It stands out for its refined driving dynamics and the integration of electric power into a well-established platform, making EV ownership accessible to a wider audience.
The Good
The 2016 e-Golf provides a smooth, quiet, and responsive driving experience. Its familiar Golf design offers comfort and practicality. It appeals to practical buyers with its high efficiency and lower running costs. Emotionally, drivers appreciate its eco-friendliness and the instant torque of the electric motor, making city driving enjoyable. Initial reliability reports were generally favorable.
The Bad
The 2016 e-Golf's main weakness is its limited range compared to newer EVs. Battery degradation over time can further reduce this range. The charging infrastructure in 2016 was less developed, potentially causing inconvenience. Some owners reported issues with the infotainment system. Watch out for premature battery degradation and ensure the charging port functions correctly.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of key specifications for the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf:
- Engine: Single electric motor
- Horsepower: 115 hp (85 kW)
- Torque: 199 lb-ft
- Battery: 24.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack
- Fuel Economy (MPGe): 126 city / 105 highway / 115 combined
- Range (EPA estimated): 83 miles
- 0-60 mph: Approximately 10.4 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
Trim-Level Features:
- Limited Edition: Included features like keyless access with push-button start, rearview camera, heated front seats, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
- SE: Added features such as DC fast charging capability, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control.
- SEL Premium: The top-of-the-line trim featured LED headlights, leather upholstery, a navigation system, parking sensors, and an upgraded sound system. It also incorporated advanced driver-assistance features like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Standard features across the trims included regenerative braking, a multi-function steering wheel, and various driving modes to optimize range and performance. The infotainment system offered smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (availability may vary). DC Fast Charging allowed for a quicker recharge at compatible charging stations.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | e-Golf |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Passenger Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | WOLFSBURG |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2 4 |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 1 Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 1-Speed |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
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Recalls
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Have?
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf, while generally reliable, has experienced some frequently reported problems. One of the primary concerns revolves around battery degradation, with some owners reporting a noticeable decrease in range over time, especially after several years of use or in hotter climates. This can significantly impact the vehicle's usability, particularly for longer commutes.
Another area of concern involves the infotainment system. Some owners have reported glitches, freezes, and unresponsiveness with the touchscreen interface. While not a critical safety issue, it can be frustrating and detract from the overall driving experience.
There have been reports about issues with the charging system, including failures to charge fully or unexpected interruptions during the charging process. These problems can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
Regarding recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any specific recalls related to the 2016 e-Golf. Recalls can address safety-related defects and are crucial to address promptly.
Long-term reliability concerns primarily center around the longevity of the battery pack and the potential cost of replacement. As with all electric vehicles, the battery is the most expensive component, and its degradation can significantly impact the vehicle's value and usability. Regular maintenance and careful driving habits can help prolong battery life, but eventual replacement should be factored into long-term ownership costs. Some minor electrical issues have also been reported, although these are not widespread.
Another area of concern involves the infotainment system. Some owners have reported glitches, freezes, and unresponsiveness with the touchscreen interface. While not a critical safety issue, it can be frustrating and detract from the overall driving experience.
There have been reports about issues with the charging system, including failures to charge fully or unexpected interruptions during the charging process. These problems can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose.
Regarding recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any specific recalls related to the 2016 e-Golf. Recalls can address safety-related defects and are crucial to address promptly.
Long-term reliability concerns primarily center around the longevity of the battery pack and the potential cost of replacement. As with all electric vehicles, the battery is the most expensive component, and its degradation can significantly impact the vehicle's value and usability. Regular maintenance and careful driving habits can help prolong battery life, but eventual replacement should be factored into long-term ownership costs. Some minor electrical issues have also been reported, although these are not widespread.
How long will the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf last?
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf, with regular maintenance, can be expected to provide 100,000 to 150,000 miles or 8-10 years of service. Actual longevity depends heavily on battery care. Owners who frequently fast-charge or deeply discharge the battery may experience faster degradation. The electric motor itself is generally durable, but the battery's capacity and range will decline over time. Weaknesses include potential infotainment system failures and gradual reduction in battery performance, impacting overall usability.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf came equipped with a respectable array of tech, entertainment, and safety features for its time. Standard tech features included a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto availability may vary), Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Upper trims like the SEL Premium boasted a larger touchscreen with navigation. Entertainment options included a standard sound system, with an upgraded version available on higher trims.
Driver-assistance features varied by trim level. The SEL Premium offered forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Basic safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags, were standard across all trims.
Optional features included DC fast charging, which significantly reduced charging times at compatible charging stations. Some models also offered heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are important for assessing the vehicle's safety. Checking these ratings for the 2016 e-Golf will provide insights into its performance in various crash scenarios. Generally, the Golf platform on which the e-Golf is based has performed well in crash tests, but it's crucial to confirm the specific ratings for the electric variant. These ratings evaluate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in frontal, side, and rollover crashes.
Driver-assistance features varied by trim level. The SEL Premium offered forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control. Basic safety features, such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags, were standard across all trims.
Optional features included DC fast charging, which significantly reduced charging times at compatible charging stations. Some models also offered heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) are important for assessing the vehicle's safety. Checking these ratings for the 2016 e-Golf will provide insights into its performance in various crash scenarios. Generally, the Golf platform on which the e-Golf is based has performed well in crash tests, but it's crucial to confirm the specific ratings for the electric variant. These ratings evaluate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in frontal, side, and rollover crashes.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Pure White
Black
Tornado Red
Night Blue Metallic
Reflex Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Titan Black
Ceramique
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf ranged from approximately $29,000 to $36,000 before any federal or state incentives. Current used market prices vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and location, but generally range from $8,000 to $15,000. Depreciation has been relatively steep due to the rapidly evolving EV market and advancements in battery technology. Factors affecting resale value include battery health, overall condition, and the availability of newer, longer-range EVs. Demand for used EVs also influences pricing. Models with DC fast charging capability tend to retain slightly higher value.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Cost of Ownership
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf is generally economical to own. Fuel costs are significantly lower than gasoline cars. Insurance costs are comparable to other compact cars. Maintenance is typically less expensive due to fewer moving parts, but battery replacements can be costly if needed. Repairs, excluding the battery, are generally in line with other VW models. Long-term ownership costs are heavily influenced by battery health and the need for potential replacement.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Recalls & Defects
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Recall date
2016-06-24
Recall no.
16v464000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2016 CC Vehicles Manufactured January 12, 2016, TO February 3, 2016, Golf R and Tiguan Vehicles Manufactured November 25, 2015, TO January 28, 2016, and E-Golf Vehicles Manufactured November 25, 2015, TO January 11, 2016. Vibrations, Such AS Those Created BY Opening and Closing A Vehicle Door, MAY Cause THE Rear Child Door Locks TO Disengage, Allowing A Child TO Open A Rear Door While Inside THE Vehicle.
Consequence
IF AN Unrestrained Child Unexpectedly Opens A Door, They MAY Fall From THE Vehicle Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect, and IF Necessary, Replace THE Child Lock(S), Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 22, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 58c9.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Recall date
2016-03-07
Recall no.
16v138000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015-2016 E-Golf Vehicles Manufactured MAY 21, 2014, TO March 1, 2016. Oversensitive Diagnostics FOR THE High-voltage Battery Management System MAY Falsely Detect AN Electrical Surge Resulting IN THE Vehicle's Electric Drive Motor Shutting Down Unexpectedly.
Consequence
AN Unexpected Vehicle Shutdown CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Battery Management Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 93b4.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:propulsion System:traction Battery
Recall date
2016-03-07
Recall no.
16v138000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2015-2016 E-Golf Vehicles Manufactured MAY 21, 2014, TO March 1, 2016. Oversensitive Diagnostics FOR THE High-voltage Battery Management System MAY Falsely Detect AN Electrical Surge Resulting IN THE Vehicle's Electric Drive Motor Shutting Down Unexpectedly.
Consequence
AN Unexpected Vehicle Shutdown CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen HAS Notified Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Battery Management Software, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 93b4.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-12-29
Recall no.
16v955000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan Vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen E-Golf Vehicles FOR Driver Frontal AIR Bags, Passenger Frontal AIR Bags or Head AIR Bags That MAY NOT Deploy Properly. Additionally, Certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 Vehicles ARE Being Recalled Because THE Seat Belt Pretensioners MAY NOT Activate Properly.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, IF THE AIR Bags And/Or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners DO NOT Inflate or Function Properly, THE Vehicle Occupants Have AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date
2016-12-29
Recall no.
16v955000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan Vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen E-Golf Vehicles FOR Driver Frontal AIR Bags, Passenger Frontal AIR Bags or Head AIR Bags That MAY NOT Deploy Properly. Additionally, Certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 Vehicles ARE Being Recalled Because THE Seat Belt Pretensioners MAY NOT Activate Properly.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, IF THE AIR Bags And/Or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners DO NOT Inflate or Function Properly, THE Vehicle Occupants Have AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2016-12-29
Recall no.
16v955000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan Vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen E-Golf Vehicles FOR Driver Frontal AIR Bags, Passenger Frontal AIR Bags or Head AIR Bags That MAY NOT Deploy Properly. Additionally, Certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 Vehicles ARE Being Recalled Because THE Seat Belt Pretensioners MAY NOT Activate Properly.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, IF THE AIR Bags And/Or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners DO NOT Inflate or Function Properly, THE Vehicle Occupants Have AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts:pretensioner
Recall date
2016-12-29
Recall no.
16v955000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan Vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen E-Golf Vehicles FOR Driver Frontal AIR Bags, Passenger Frontal AIR Bags or Head AIR Bags That MAY NOT Deploy Properly. Additionally, Certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 Vehicles ARE Being Recalled Because THE Seat Belt Pretensioners MAY NOT Activate Properly.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash, IF THE AIR Bags And/Or THE Seat Belt Pretensioners DO NOT Inflate or Function Properly, THE Vehicle Occupants Have AN Increased Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began April 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298 or Audi Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Unknown or Other
Recall date
2018-05-16
Recall no.
18v329000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 E-golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI Vehicles. Modifications Made While THE Vehicles Were IN AN Internal Evaluation Period MAY Cause THE Affected Vehicles TO NOT Comply With All OF THE Applicable Regulatory Requirements.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicles DO NOT Meet All Regulatory Requirements, There Could BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash, Fire, or Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Repair THE Vehicles TO Make Them Fully Compliant or Volkswagen Will Repurchase Them IF Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 29, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2022-07-27
Recall no.
22v543000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2016 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, S3 Sedan, R8 Coupe, A3 Sedan, A3 Etron, A3 Cabriolet, 2016 Golf Sportwagen, Golf R, Golf Gti, Golf A7, and E Golf Vehicles. During AIR BAG Deployment, THE Front Passenger AIR BAG MAY Explode or Deploy Improperly.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death. AN Improper AIR BAG Deployment MAY NOT Properly Restrain THE Occupant, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Front-Passenger AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed December 16, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen's Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Audi's Customer Service AT 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 69dy and 61c1.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Insurance
Insurance for a 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Passenger Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf competed with other early EVs like the Nissan Leaf, BMW i3, and Ford Focus Electric. Compared to the Leaf, the e-Golf offered a more refined driving experience and a higher-quality interior, but the Leaf had a longer range. The BMW i3 was more stylish and quirky but more expensive. The Focus Electric had a similar range but lacked the e-Golf's overall refinement.
In terms of performance, the e-Golf offered adequate acceleration for city driving, but its range was a limiting factor compared to newer EVs. Feature-wise, it was competitive with its rivals, offering a decent infotainment system and available driver-assistance features.
Reliability-wise, the e-Golf has been generally comparable to its competitors, but battery degradation is a common concern across all early EVs.
Price-wise, the e-Golf was positioned in the middle of the pack. As for alternatives, if range is a priority, a newer used Nissan Leaf (especially models from 2018 onward) might be a better option. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Focus Electric could be a cheaper alternative, but it lacks the e-Golf's refinement. Overall, the e-Golf is a solid choice for those seeking a compact and practical EV for city driving, but its limited range should be a major consideration.
In terms of performance, the e-Golf offered adequate acceleration for city driving, but its range was a limiting factor compared to newer EVs. Feature-wise, it was competitive with its rivals, offering a decent infotainment system and available driver-assistance features.
Reliability-wise, the e-Golf has been generally comparable to its competitors, but battery degradation is a common concern across all early EVs.
Price-wise, the e-Golf was positioned in the middle of the pack. As for alternatives, if range is a priority, a newer used Nissan Leaf (especially models from 2018 onward) might be a better option. If budget is a major concern, the Ford Focus Electric could be a cheaper alternative, but it lacks the e-Golf's refinement. Overall, the e-Golf is a solid choice for those seeking a compact and practical EV for city driving, but its limited range should be a major consideration.
Ranks #1595 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1595 | 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf a Good Passenger Sedan?
The 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf is ideal for city dwellers who need a practical, efficient, and easy-to-drive EV for short commutes. It's a good option if you have access to charging and don't require long-distance travel. Whether it's worth buying depends on the price and condition. A well-maintained used model at a reasonable price can be a good value, but be mindful of potential battery degradation. The SEL Premium trim offers the most features, but even the SE trim provides essential upgrades like DC fast charging. Consider it if you understand its limitations and its purpose aligns with your driving needs. Don't buy it expecting long-range capabilities.
Shredly on October 11, 2023
Great around town car.2016 e-Golf SEL bought use 2yr old for 16K with 28k mi. Now 10/2023 with 63k miles. Two tires an a bunch of wipers. Fun, handles well, cheap charging costs (4.2/kWh), 5.3 mi/kWh, practical layout. No updating the navigation, not the best visibility but great backup camera. Not thrilled about the defrost wires in the windshield but it is fast. One foot driving is great! Like a poor man's Model 3.
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Lady Di2 on April 13, 2022
Glorified Golf CartStranded today. Could not get to work. Something was left on while I charged the battery. Not enough energy to drive 5 miles to work. Oh and in the winter don't dare turn on the heater. Your energy will deplete in a heart beat. Same goes for air conditioning. And if it's below 39 degrees, which is normal for Central Oregon winters, you will never get a full charge. DO NOT BUY. Oh and buy the way this car was 4 years old when I bought it, but it only had 23,000 miles and I have had these issues ever since I bought it.
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EGolf Rob on October 30, 2019
Looks, drives like a regular ice carBought used, cant really tell by the looks of it, 35,400 miles. I commute daily in it, charge it nightly and it’s ready to go in the morning, nice and warm. Car is pretty much a regular Golf other than the eMotor and the battery. Handles real nice due to very low center of gravity. Surprisingly good acceleration. 3 modes of power, normal, eco and eco+. Regenerative braking dumps power back into battery, If you drive carefully and leave plenty of room between your car and the one in front of you, you can almost use no braking and really extend your range. Very intuitive electronics, just took me a couple of days to get used to it. If you get the chance test drive one, you won’t regret it. Come December I’ll be charging from my Solar Array, so I won’t be paying for electricity.
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Percy311 on January 3, 2019
New owner, but seems super solidWhat more do you have to say? It’s the Tesla Model3 5 years before it ever arrived and it’s actually $35k new! I scored a 2 year old top trim SEL for $18k and couldn’t be happier!
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Chris_in_SB on June 25, 2018
Perfect around town car - Zero EmissionsAlthough the range is only around 90 miles on a single charge, this vehicle is perfect for around town. Takes 8 hrs to fully charge vehicle using a 110V outlet. Very comfortable and reliable. Build quality is outstanding.
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sardine can on November 25, 2017
environmental responsibilityGreat car, great value, good performance, excellent environmentally but a real pain to get a charging station installed in a condo garage and expensive.
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JoannaP on August 21, 2017
Very nice elctric car even comparing to MB B-classDrives nice, comfortable, good visibility around, excellent navigation and menu. But I'm missing home link (garage door opener) and lane departure warnings.
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NAPALYNNW on August 9, 2017
Love the fact its reducing our carbon footprintEasy to drive as it effortlessly glides along without the annoying engine exhaust sound and seems to have plenty of pep! Bought a level 2 charger on line that charges the battery about 3 times faster then the charger that came with the car. My wife Loves the car!
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Karl K. on July 21, 2017
Looks Sporty, Drives Fast, Clean and no Emissionse-Golf is like any other Golf. Interior is excellent. Good room inside. Performance is great. Suspension is a little soft than regular golf maybe because of battery weight. Other than that, it is an excellent car to own.
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EV Newbie on May 5, 2017
eGolfGood all around car, however, the mileage is awful ~90 to a charge, still working on it, hopefully, this improves as we learn more of the intricacies.
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Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma