VW's Electric Polo Spotted: A Glimpse of the Future GTI

Daily Car

11/02/2026

Volkswagen's highly anticipated electric supermini, the ID. Polo, has been captured in new spy shots, shedding most of its camouflage. These images offer a clear look at the production-ready design, closely resembling the ID.2all concept. While a full-blown electric GTI is on the horizon, these prototypes suggest that even the sportier R-Line trims will offer a compelling blend of performance and practicality for the EV market.

Key Takeaways

The ID. Polo is nearing production, with minimal disguise in recent spy shots.
Design cues are heavily influenced by the ID.2all concept.
Multiple power outputs will be available, with R-Line trims showing sportier styling.
An electric GTI variant is confirmed for a later release.

Design Secrets Revealed

Recent spy photographs showcase the upcoming Volkswagen ID. Polo testing in winter conditions, remarkably free of heavy camouflage. The sides of the vehicle are completely exposed, providing an unobstructed view of its proportions, body surfacing, and the distinctive rear door handle integrated into the window frame near the C-pillar. While the front and rear still feature a thin layer of disguise, it's insufficient to conceal the overall shape of the lower intakes and bumper design. The vehicle appears production-ready and remarkably similar to the ID.2all concept unveiled in 2023.

Not Quite A GTI, But Sporty

Two prototypes were observed: one white and one black. The black car is equipped with larger, sportier alloy wheels. Both vehicles appear to feature subtle body enhancements, including a small roof spoiler, more pronounced side skirts, and a deeper front lip. These elements suggest R-Line trims rather than the full-performance GTI variant. Volkswagen has previously previewed the ID. Polo GTI, also in disguised form, which featured more aggressive styling cues.

Interior and Performance

Despite its compact exterior dimensions, comparable to the current combustion-engine Polo, clever packaging and a substantial 2,600 mm (102.4 inches) wheelbase are expected to deliver a spacious interior. Volkswagen has indicated that rear passengers will benefit from increased legroom, along with gains in headroom and overall cabin width. Inside, drivers can anticipate the return of physical buttons, warm interior materials, and stylish retro-inspired gauge cluster graphics, as recently teased by VW.

Powering the ID. Polo will be front-mounted electric motors offered in three configurations: 114 hp (85 kW), 133 hp (99 kW), and 208 hp (155 kW). These power outputs mirror those confirmed for the Skoda Epiq and Cupra Raval, which share the same front-wheel-drive MEB+ platform. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) is anticipated to be around 7 seconds. The more potent ID. Polo GTI, set to be the first electric VW to bear the GTI badge, will boast 223 hp (166 kW) and will be launched at a later date.

Battery Options and Pricing

Entry-level versions will utilize a 37 kWh battery, offering modest fast-charging capabilities and a range suitable for city driving. A larger 52 kWh battery pack will provide an estimated range of 280 miles (450 km) on a single charge. However, it appears that the larger battery will be the sole option at launch, which could impact the initially promised starting price of €25,000, potentially pushing its availability to late 2026 or early 2027.

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