The Good
The 2017 e-Golf offers a zippy and quiet driving experience, appealing to the emotional buyer seeking a fun EV. Practically, it's reliable, comfortable, and efficient, translating to low running costs. Its classic Golf design is familiar and understated. Its value lies in its accessible price point and the savings on fuel and maintenance compared to a gasoline car. It provides a smooth and easy drive for city dwellers.
The Bad
The 2017 e-Golf's main weakness is its limited range compared to newer EVs. Its battery capacity might degrade over time, reducing range further. Watch out for potential issues with the infotainment system and electrical components. The rear seat space might be a bit cramped for taller passengers on longer trips. Also, charging infrastructure limitations should be considered depending on where you live and travel.
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor
- Horsepower: 134 hp
- Fuel Economy (MPGe): Approximately 126 city / 111 highway / 119 combined
- 0-60 Time: Around 9.6 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
- Trim-Level Features:
- Limited Edition: Base model with basic features like cloth seats, rearview camera, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen.
- SE: Adds features like leatherette seats, heated front seats, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen. Also includes VW Car-Net App-Connect.
- SEL Premium: Top-of-the-line trim with features like leather seats, LED headlights, parking sensors, automatic climate control, and navigation. Includes all features of the SE trim, plus enhanced driver-assistance features.
- Battery: 35.8 kWh (later in the model year). Earlier models had 24.2 kWh
- Range: Approximately 125 miles (later models with larger battery), approximately 83 miles (earlier models with smaller battery). Actual range varies with driving conditions and temperature.
- Charging: Level 2 charging (240V) takes approximately 6 hours for a full charge on the larger battery. DC fast charging (CCS) allows for an 80% charge in about 30 minutes.
- Drive: Front-wheel drive
- Transmission: Single-speed automatic
- Other: Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. The SEL Premium trim included advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2017 |
| 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 | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| 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
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Have?
Recalls for the 2017 e-Golf have been relatively infrequent but it is crucial to check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date information. The specific recalls might involve issues related to airbag deployment or other safety systems.
Long-term reliability concerns mostly center around the battery pack's lifespan and its ability to hold a charge effectively over many years and miles. It is recommended to have the battery health checked if purchasing a used e-Golf. The electrical components, like the motor and power electronics, are generally considered reliable, but regular maintenance and inspections are still essential. There were no significantly different issues reported for the 2017 model year compared to other similar years of the e-Golf, however, earlier models with smaller batteries are known to have less range than the later models with larger batteries.
How long will the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features varied by trim. The SEL Premium included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and parking sensors. Other trims had some of these features available as optional extras.
Standard safety features across all trims include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) should be checked for the specific model year, but the Golf family, in general, usually performs well. Check those sites for the most up-to-date and accurate ratings for the 2017 e-Golf specifically. Optional features included a heat pump for more efficient cabin heating, particularly in cold weather, which helped extend driving range.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Prices and Market Value
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Cost of Ownership
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Fuel Efficiency
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Safety Rating
NHTSA
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Recalls & Defects
Unknown or Other
Unknown or Other
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Compare to Other Passenger Sedan?
Price-wise, the used e-Golf is often more affordable now than a comparable used Bolt. The Leaf offers a similar driving experience and can be a worthy alternative. The BMW i3 boasts a more unique design but can be more expensive to maintain. The Chevrolet Bolt offers significantly more range, making it a better option for those with longer commutes or who experience range anxiety. Depending on priorities, the Bolt is a strong alternative for its range, while the Leaf offers a comparable, slightly less expensive option. The e-Golf appeals to those who value the Golf's familiar driving experience and understated design in an EV package.
Ranks #1562 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★) |
| 1562 | 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf | (4.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf a Good Passenger Sedan?
ElectricBlue on July 25, 2018
So fun to driveIf you're new to electric cars, this is a great introduction. Perfect commuter car that is oh so much fun to drive. It is our go to car for any driving around town. I have charger at work that I use most of the time, but also installed charger at home for those times that I need to top off. Re-think how you drive and get yourself an electric car.
PA1991 on April 11, 2018
Great transition to Electric DrivingI waited 8 months for this car but it was worth every second of the wait. I love it is extremely smooth and on top of that it doesn't cost me anything to run.
Chris on November 9, 2017
Smooth driving experienceWhile I've only had my 2017 e-golf for a month, I really am enjoying this vehicle. It replaced my 2001 golf, and it drives so much better. This is my first electric vehicle, and it really is amazing to be able to plug it in to our level 2 charger for a few hours, get enough charge for a hundred fifty miles around town, and not have to plug it back in for nearly a week. The ride in this vehicle is super smooth. It drives like a much larger, heavier vehicle, but handles very nimbly, just like one would expect from the traditional VW Golf. The car screams ordinary on the outside, but on the inside the amenities are very upscale even in the base version that I have. I'm not sure I would have purchased this car without the incentives from my state and the federal government, and the great deal from the VW dealer from which I purchased it. It's obviously still pretty early in the electric vehicle development for most manufacturers, but this car portends well for the future of electric vehicles from Volkswagen. I give the reliability just three stars only because Volkswagen doesn't have the best reputation for the long term, at least from my experience. But I'm hopeful that because this is an electric vehicle that it will be more reliable.
ElectricBlue on July 25, 2018
So fun to driveIf you're new to electric cars, this is a great introduction. Perfect commuter car that is oh so much fun to drive. It is our go to car for any driving around town. I have charger at work that I use most of the time, but also installed charger at home for those times that I need to top off. Re-think how you drive and get yourself an electric car.
PA1991 on April 11, 2018
Great transition to Electric DrivingI waited 8 months for this car but it was worth every second of the wait. I love it is extremely smooth and on top of that it doesn't cost me anything to run.
Chris on November 9, 2017
Smooth driving experienceWhile I've only had my 2017 e-golf for a month, I really am enjoying this vehicle. It replaced my 2001 golf, and it drives so much better. This is my first electric vehicle, and it really is amazing to be able to plug it in to our level 2 charger for a few hours, get enough charge for a hundred fifty miles around town, and not have to plug it back in for nearly a week. The ride in this vehicle is super smooth. It drives like a much larger, heavier vehicle, but handles very nimbly, just like one would expect from the traditional VW Golf. The car screams ordinary on the outside, but on the inside the amenities are very upscale even in the base version that I have. I'm not sure I would have purchased this car without the incentives from my state and the federal government, and the great deal from the VW dealer from which I purchased it. It's obviously still pretty early in the electric vehicle development for most manufacturers, but this car portends well for the future of electric vehicles from Volkswagen. I give the reliability just three stars only because Volkswagen doesn't have the best reputation for the long term, at least from my experience. But I'm hopeful that because this is an electric vehicle that it will be more reliable.
ElectricBlue on July 25, 2018
So fun to driveIf you're new to electric cars, this is a great introduction. Perfect commuter car that is oh so much fun to drive. It is our go to car for any driving around town. I have charger at work that I use most of the time, but also installed charger at home for those times that I need to top off. Re-think how you drive and get yourself an electric car.
PA1991 on April 11, 2018
Great transition to Electric DrivingI waited 8 months for this car but it was worth every second of the wait. I love it is extremely smooth and on top of that it doesn't cost me anything to run.
Chris on November 9, 2017
Smooth driving experienceWhile I've only had my 2017 e-golf for a month, I really am enjoying this vehicle. It replaced my 2001 golf, and it drives so much better. This is my first electric vehicle, and it really is amazing to be able to plug it in to our level 2 charger for a few hours, get enough charge for a hundred fifty miles around town, and not have to plug it back in for nearly a week. The ride in this vehicle is super smooth. It drives like a much larger, heavier vehicle, but handles very nimbly, just like one would expect from the traditional VW Golf. The car screams ordinary on the outside, but on the inside the amenities are very upscale even in the base version that I have. I'm not sure I would have purchased this car without the incentives from my state and the federal government, and the great deal from the VW dealer from which I purchased it. It's obviously still pretty early in the electric vehicle development for most manufacturers, but this car portends well for the future of electric vehicles from Volkswagen. I give the reliability just three stars only because Volkswagen doesn't have the best reputation for the long term, at least from my experience. But I'm hopeful that because this is an electric vehicle that it will be more reliable.
ElectricBlue on July 25, 2018
So fun to driveIf you're new to electric cars, this is a great introduction. Perfect commuter car that is oh so much fun to drive. It is our go to car for any driving around town. I have charger at work that I use most of the time, but also installed charger at home for those times that I need to top off. Re-think how you drive and get yourself an electric car.
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