The All-New Volkswagen Polo GTi Goes Electric
50 years after the launch of Volkswagen’s first GTi with the Mk1 Golf, Volkswagen have another first with their new all-electric ID. Polo GTi.
It’s been 50 years since Volkswagen launched the now legendary Golf GTi which turned the automotive world on its head and lead other manufacturers to launch their fast, fun, sporty styled, hot hatchbacks.
But now that EVs are headed for mainstream, Volkswagen has jumped at the chance to rekindle some of that mojo with their new Polo GTi, albeit this time it’s an electric car.
The Polo GTI has a 226 PS motor driving the front wheels with 290 Nm of torque available at the tap of the right foot. From a standstill, it will hit 62 mph in a very agreeable in 6.8 seconds – but just like all previous GTi’s, it makes for an outstanding everyday car, too.
GTi-ness
Volkswagen is adding all the characteristics that makes their GTi’s great cars, from visual enhancements to ride and performance upgrades. For a start it comes with a front differential lock, and adaptive DCC sports suspension with progressive steering, all aimed to deliver dynamic handling and that unique GTI feel.
Another first is the new GTI driving profile that can be activated by a button on the steering wheel. That engages the drive and chassis systems, power delivery, the progressive steering and the adaptive DCC sports chassis with just the click of one button.
The cockpit also changes to a specific colour and theme so that drivers and passengers are aware the car is in GTi mode.
This also looks absolutely stunning in a very unshouty way. It’s more sporty to look at, but it’s more elegant, too. Matured, yet poised for fun. Volkswagen have got the balance just right here.
Battery, Charging and Range
The Polo GTi is fitted with a 52 kWh NMC battery with Volkswagen stating that the DC charging curve is constant peaking at 105 kW and will charge from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes at an appropriate DC rapid charger, which is impressive given its 400v architecture.
The 52 kWh battery is good for 263 miles of range on the WLTP test cycle, which should suit most customers daily needs with plenty to spare.
Inside
There’s a red theme that threads itself through the black interior, either from the legendary tartan seat patterns, the red stitching or matching ambient lighting, it’s unmistakingly a GTi inside. There’s even a red marking positioned on the steering wheel rim at 12 o’clock, mimicking similar features found in motor sports.
A red GTI emblem is integrated into the integral head rests on the front GTi sports seats and the famous GTi logo is illuminated on the buttony sports steering wheel. The two paddles behind it adjust the regenerative braking level.
The Digital Cockpit drivers display measures 10.25-inches across with the infotainment system at 12.9-inches.
There’s even a retro mode for the drivers display via the View button on the steering wheel. This changes the graphics to mimic a Mk1 Golf GTi.
Storage
Although the Polo has now grown to 4,096 mm in length, passengers benefit from an extra 19mm more interior space when compared to the petrol powered Polo GTI, with the interior width and headroom also increasing.
The boot capacity has grown from 351 litres to a very impressive 441 litres, and with the rear seats folded down, the space increases to 1,240 litres which is 115 litres more than the outgoing Polo.
It also has a towing capacity of up to 1.2 tonnes meaning it can also pull motorbikes on a trailer, for example.
Safety
With the new ID. Polo built on the MEB+ platform, it gets the latest VW Group software stack which includes assist systems.
This is very much a connected car now that uses online data, meaning an optional ‘Connected Travel Assist’ is available that can detect red traffic lights and automatically brake the ID. Polo GTI to a standstill.
Another new feature is one-pedal driving for strong deceleration when lifting off the accelerator, which makes for entertaining and spirited driving, but it also makes such light work of congested streets by bringing the car to a complete stop without the need for the brake pedal.
Optional Extras
It wouldn’t be a Volkswagen without a list of options to choose from, such as a 425 W, 10-speaker, Harman Kardon sound system with a centre speaker for clear voice guidance. The upgraded sound system also includes a subwoofer.
Customers can also opt for a large panoramic sunroof and 12-way electrically adjustable front seats with a massage function.
There’s also a set of 19-inch Bridgestone Potenza Sports tyres specifically developed for the ID. Polo GTI, will be available as an option.
Pre-sales are scheduled to start in Germany this autumn at a price of just under 39,000 euros, which translates to £34,000, although U.K. prices have yet to be confirmed.
Conclusion
From the little information that’s available, I think the Polo GTi has the right balance of sportiness, reserved styling and unmistakable GTi-ness. Could Volkswagen could have a hit on their hands? I sincerely hope so, but the proof will always be in the pudding as it’s yet to face scrutiny by the automotive media and their car review teams put n the open roads.
However, what is so interesting to see is car manufacturers are aiming EV’s directly at car enthusiasts with an increasing range of engaging and entertaining cars. Importantly, these are not being replaced by SUV’s, so they can carry on the true hot hatch legacy that Volkswagen started 50 years ago.
———
About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb or YouTube @REV-EV.