Volkswagen is set to blend its rich heritage with its electric future, confirming that the beloved Polo name will be reborn as an all-electric vehicle. The new model, to be called the ID. Polo, is slated for a full production reveal in 2026 and marks a significant step in the brand’s strategy to electrify its most iconic nameplates.
The journey to the ID. Polo began with the ID. 2all concept, which will now officially enter production under the new name. Volkswagen plans to give the public a sneak peek at a near-production version of the ID. Polo at the upcoming Munich motor show. Excitingly, it won’t be coming alone. The brand will also unveil a performance-focused ID. Polo GTI, bringing the legendary hot hatch badge into the electric era. This move signals Volkswagen’s commitment to preserving the character and appeal of its most popular models as it transitions to an all-electric lineup.
Volkswagen CEO Thomas Shafer emphasized the importance of these familiar names, stating, “Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”
The ID. Polo’s Performance and Powertrain
Built on the same MEB Entry platform as the upcoming Skoda Epiq, the Volkswagen ID. Polo is expected to offer practical yet spirited performance. Buyers will likely have a choice between two battery configurations: a 38kWh pack for city-friendly driving and a larger 56kWh battery designed for longer journeys. The 56kWh version is projected to achieve a WLTP range of up to 450km on a single charge and will support charging speeds of up to 125kW, making top-ups quick and convenient.
The excitement builds with the introduction of the ID. Polo GTI, which is poised to be Volkswagen’s first true all-electric hot hatch. It’s expected to feature a potent 226hp motor, delivering the instant torque and thrilling acceleration that EV performance is known for. But Volkswagen isn’t stopping there. The company is reportedly exploring even more powerful iterations, including a 286hp ID. Polo GTI Clubsport and a range-topping, all-wheel-drive R version that could boast an incredible 400hp from a dual-motor setup.
The exterior design of the electric hatchback is expected to stay true to the concepts, featuring slim, modern lighting units and a generous glasshouse for an airy cabin feel. The GTI model will naturally adopt a more aggressive stance with flared wheel arches, a front diffuser, a split spoiler, and unique alloy wheels, giving it a look that matches its performance ambitions. Volkswagen has confirmed the ID. Polo will measure 4,053mm in length, making it slightly larger than the current international-spec internal combustion engine (ICE) Polo.
Inside, the cabin will reflect a modern, tech-forward approach with a large 12.9-inch infotainment screen and a 10.9-inch digital driver’s display. In a welcome move for many drivers, Volkswagen is retaining physical switches for core functions like climate and audio controls. The interior will also showcase the brand’s commitment to sustainability, utilizing high-quality materials without adhesives or hard plastics to reduce its environmental footprint.
This strategy extends beyond the Polo. Volkswagen plans to rename other models in its electric ID. family, with reports suggesting the ID. 3, ID. 4, and ID. 7 will become the ID. Golf, ID. Tiguan, and ID. Passat, respectively. This initiative underscores a clear vision: to carry the legacy of its most celebrated cars into a new, electric age.
