THE latest version of Volkswagen's electrically powered, zero-emissions Golf will offer more power, a longer range and more high-tech features than its predecessor.

While an improved 0-60mph acceleration time - almost a second quicker than before - is significant, the new e-Golf's main attraction will be its increased range which is around 50 per cent more than before.

Official figures on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) credit the latest e-Golf with a range of more than 180 miles, although in "real world" driving, Volkswagen says this new version will cover up to 125 miles or more on one battery charge, depending on driving style and the use of the air conditioning system.

This is thanks to a new lithium-ion battery with an increased energy capacity - up from 24.2 kWh to 35.8 kWh - which can be recharged to 80 per cent capacity in less than an hour at a charging station, or to 100 per cent in under six hours from a domestic wall box.

The electric motor now develops 100 kW, which is 15 kW more power than the first version of the e-Golf. At the same time, maximum torque has been boosted from 270 Nm to 290 Nm. The sprintfrom 0 to 60mph takes less than 9.6 seconds (previously 10.4 seconds), and top speed has been increased by six miles per hour to 93mph.

All the features of the recently revealed 2017 Golf will be incorporated in the latest version of the e- Golf including modified front and rear styling with full-LED headlights and tail lights.

New high-tech features include a digital instrument display and an infotainment system that can be operated by gesture control - a world first, according to VW.

The 2017 model will also come with more driver assistance and safety systems including semi-autonomous driving up to 60 km/h, pedestrian monitoring, city emergency braking and an emergency system which can automatically stop the car if the driver has a medical emergency.