Volkswagen ID.GTI Concept previews electric hot hatch

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Volkswagen’s commitment to its iconic models remains steadfast as it embraces the electric future wholeheartedly. Unveiled at the 2023 Munich auto show, the Volkswagen ID.GTI Concept signals the arrival of an electric hot hatch production model, poised to debut in the coming years.

Drawing a clear lineage from the ID.2all concept introduced earlier in March, the ID.GTI Concept is built upon the MEB EV architecture. Initial speculations had hinted at the production version of the ID.2all adopting the Golf moniker. With the confirmation that the ID.GTI Concept shares its roots with the compact hatchback, and is destined for production, the likelihood of the ID.Golf becoming the official name for the production ID.2all gains credibility.

Anticipated for a 2026 launch, the ID.2all is positioned as an entry-level offering, boasting an attractive price point of 25,000 euros (roughly $26,550), offering a cost-effective alternative to the current gasoline-powered GTI, which comes in at slightly over $30,000.

Under the hood, the ID.GTI Concept boasts a solitary front-mounted motor, delivering power to the front wheels—akin to the traditional GTI setup. With the versatility of the electric motor, Volkswagen asserts its capability to tailor the powertrain, steering characteristics, and auditory cues to replicate the driving sensations and gear-shift points of past models, spanning back to the inaugural 1976 Golf GTI, through the first 16-valve GTI Mark 2, and even the 2001 GTI Mark 4. Detailed specifications, such as power output, battery capacity, range, and performance figures, have yet to be disclosed.

From a visual perspective, the ID.GTI Concept proudly embodies the essence of the modern Golf GTI. Classic elements, such as the sleek LED lights, the iconic red radiator grille, the robust C-pillar, and the GTI logos, all endure. The wheel arches are gracefully enveloped by 20-inch aluminum wheels ensconced in performance-oriented 245/35R20 tires.

While interior details are partially presented through sketches and partial views, a three-spoke steering wheel incorporating a 12 o’clock marker serves as a reference point for the driver. Reimagining the iconic golf ball shifter, it now functions as the powertrain controller for various driving modes and profiles. Augmented reality finds its place in the head-up display of the concept. Sport seats, featuring the signature plaid inserts, preserve the GTI legacy. Embracing the digital age, the interior features fully digital displays for both the gauge cluster and a sizable 12.9-inch infotainment system. Reflecting lessons learned, Volkswagen emphasizes the presence of backlit buttons for climate control and other vehicle functions in the ID.GTI Concept.

As for the production timeline, Volkswagen refrains from specifying an exact date for the ID.GTI Concept’s availability, but it is projected to hit the market sometime in 2026 or beyond. The ID.GTI Concept marks an exciting step towards an electrified future for Volkswagen’s celebrated GTI lineage, promising a fusion of heritage and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about electric hot hatch

More about electric hot hatch

• Volkswagen ID.GTI Concept Official Page
• 2023 Munich Auto Show Highlights
• MEB Electric Vehicle Architecture
• ID.2all Concept Announcement
• Electric Car Technology Advancements
• Volkswagen GTI Legacy
• Volkswagen Electric Car Lineup
• Electric Car Pricing Strategies
• Classic GTI Design Elements
• Augmented Reality in Cars