Volkswagen has unveiled its first all-electric GTI – the new ID. Polo GTI. This marks the first fully electric model to wear the famous three-letter badge in the GTI's 50-year history. While it swaps petrol power for batteries, Volkswagen insists it retains the spirit of a proper GTI.
Design and Heritage
The ID. Polo GTI boasts design hallmarks that have made GTIs popular for decades. In size and proportions, it closely resembles the original 1976 Golf GTI. Officially a near-production concept, pre-sales are slated for mid-October. Familiar GTI features include a red pinstripe across the front, now under a full-width LED light strip and illuminated badge, plus red strips below the bumper and a honeycomb grille. The 19-inch alloys and red-and-black interior pay homage to GTIs of old, with plenty of GTI badges inside and out.
Interior and Technology
The interior impresses with quality and style, featuring a 10.25-inch digital driver display and a 12.9-inch central touchscreen. Drivers can switch to a retro 1970s GTI look, with classic-style speedometer and faux rev counter (showing energy use). The music display even mimics a cassette tape. A modern GTI mode highlights performance data. Seats feature "Superclark" tartan fabric, and the steering wheel has red stitching and a motorsport-inspired red marker at 12 o'clock.
Practicality
The ID. Polo GTI measures 4,097 mm long with a 2,599 mm wheelbase, offering more interior space than the outgoing petrol Polo GTI. Rear legroom is ample for a six-foot driver, and the boot offers 441 litres, expanding to 1,243 litres with seats folded – more than many family hatchbacks. A detachable tow bar allows towing up to 1.2 tonnes.
Performance and Driving
Performance figures are finalised: a front-mounted electric motor delivers 224bhp and 290Nm of torque, achieving 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 109mph. It remains front-wheel drive, with an electronically controlled front differential lock and adaptive suspension for agility and civility. A dedicated GTI mode sharpens steering, suspension, and power delivery, switches cabin lighting to red, and displays sportier graphics. A synthetic engine sound aims to enhance emotion.
Battery and Charging
A 52kWh battery provides up to 264 miles of range. DC rapid charging peaks at 105kW, enabling a 10-80% charge in about 24 minutes. A new low-speed warning sound changes with speed and throttle; in GTI Sport mode, it becomes more aggressive up to 31mph.
Equipment and Availability
Standard equipment includes Matrix LED headlights, wireless phone charging, heated steering wheel, and configurable ambient lighting. Options include a Harman Kardon sound system, panoramic roof, and massage seats. Connected Travel Assist reacts to traffic lights, and one-pedal driving is available. The petrol Polo GTI ends in 2026, making the ID. Polo GTI a pivotal moment for Volkswagen's performance heritage.
