Despite lacking a combustion engine, the VW ID. Polo GTI strives to embody the essence of an old-school hot hatch. Volkswagen's first electric GTI heavily incorporates classic design cues from its iconic predecessors.
The vehicle includes typical GTI hardware such as an electronic limited-slip differential. However, its 6.8-second sprint to 62 mph is not class-leading. A fake engine sound comes standard, and a hotter Clubsport version will feature simulated gears for a more engaging drive.
Volkswagen emphasizes that the new ID. Polo GTI is a genuine GTI. Though it lacks an internal combustion engine, the traditional hot hatch formula remains largely unchanged. The exterior features an aggressive front fascia, a deep chin spoiler, and vertical daytime running lights that enhance its stance. Unique side skirts with GTI badging and a chunky rear diffuser add 2 inches to the overall length compared to the standard model.
Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels with red GTI logos and red brake calipers. The roof spoiler is slightly larger than on the regular model, featuring a split in the middle for added visual interest. Inside, the GTI makeover continues with grippy bucket seats featuring a reinterpretation of the classic tartan pattern and a unique two-spoke steering wheel that is flat on both top and bottom. Red contrast details and unique graphics on the two screens complete the interior transformation, making this a credible-looking GTI.
The front wheels are powered by a single 223-horsepower electric motor delivering 214 lb-ft of torque. While it doesn't make the electric Polo GTI exceptionally quick, with a top speed of 109 mph, it recovers some enthusiast appeal with its electronically limited-slip differential, lowered suspension, and larger brakes. Nonetheless, it is among the slower electric hot hatches currently available.
Volkswagen has designed the ID. Polo GTI to look and feel as close to a traditional combustion GTI as possible. It includes a combustion-style acceleration sound that can be activated both inside and outside the vehicle. The upcoming Clubsport variant will offer more power and simulated gears for enhanced driver engagement. Although the steering wheel already has paddles, they are currently used to adjust regenerative braking levels.
Weighing 3,395 lbs, the ID. Polo GTI is relatively light for an electric vehicle, thanks to its small size and 52-kilowatt-hour battery pack. Its WLTP range drops from 283 miles to 263 miles, and charging at a maximum of 105 kW allows a 10-80% charge in 24 minutes. Priced from just under €39,000 in Germany, it is significantly more expensive than the base model but is competitively priced against rivals like the Alpine A290 and the Peugeot E-208 GTi.