June 17 Volkswagen announced yesterday that it plans to launch 30 all-electric cars in the next nine years – making itself the leader in green transport.

The company says that by 2025 all-electric cars would make up some 25 per cent of annual sales. It will also move VW on from the damaging scandal it is battling to put behind them concerning diesel emissions.

Our Golf GTE shows how well they are doing. It’s an exceptional hybrid – despite the price – but there is something Volkswagen could do to further enhance the GTEs image.

Lead a campaign to give motorists real-world economy figures! The official mpg tests for cars are carried out over a short distance, which means any hybrid car will appear to give remarkable economy figures well over 100 mpg.

It’s a major frustration to buyers – and a source of bad feeling – that must be rectified. And with VW struggling to put the emissions scandal behind them, what better way to ‘come clean’ on economy.

June 16 After a week of madness in the Caterham Seven, it’s something of a relief to be able to step into a car without the need for ear-plugs or having to perform a double-jointed manoeuvre to squeeze aboard. Working windscreen wipers are a bonus too.

There’s also an element of cool about this particular Golf. Based on the world’s benchmark hatchback, here’s a car that gives you instant eco credibility in a brilliant all round package.

Unfortunately, what’s hard to ignore is the price. I’d be fascinated to know what kind of person will pay £33k for a hybrid Golf. If they want economy, a TDI version will more than equal it. If they want speed, the R is a class leader.

I’m just not sure the GTE offers enough to warrant that price tag. Slice off £8k and I’d be first in the queue…