Volkswagen’s performance-oriented GTI badge, which carries over 50 years of heritage through models such as the Mk1 Golf GTI, is set to be placed on an EV for the first time – with Volkswagen this week announcing the Volkswagen ID. Polo GTI, a sportier take on the ID. Polo revealed earlier this year.
With an electric motor output of 222 horsepower to the front wheels, the ID. Polo GTI accelerates to 62mph in only 6.8 seconds. Combined with numerous changes to the chassis over the standard ID. Polo, including an electronically controlled front differential, Volkswagen are promising strong driving dynamics. Previous GTIs in the ICE era were praised for their ability to seamlessly blend hatchback practicality with sports car-rivalling performance, and it seems this ID. Polo GTI will carry on that legacy.
The ID. Polo GTI also brings a number of exterior and interior changes to set it apart from the standard ID. Polo, including larger 19-inch alloy wheels, a smothering of GTI badges, body-hugging seats, and more.
As an electric hot hatchback, this car loses none of the qualities of the standard car – so you still get a respectable boot space of 441 litres, a large spread of driver assistance systems, and a decent battery range of 263 miles.
In Germany, Volkswagen has confirmed that the ID. Polo GTI will start at just under €39,000, though pricing for other territories is yet to be confirmed. This does mean this car will demand a significant premium over the standard ID. Polo, which is expected to start at under €25,000.
This sporty EV will be competing against a growing roster of electric hot hatchbacks, including the Peugeot e-208 GTI, Alpine A290, and its closely related sibling, the CUPRA Raval.
