VW's Electric Polo Arrives: More Power, Space, and Affordability

Daily Car

17/12/2025

Volkswagen has unveiled significant details about its upcoming ID. Polo, an electric vehicle poised to redefine its compact car lineup. Set to launch next year, this new model promises a "Pure Positive" design, offering interior space comparable to larger vehicles, alongside multiple powertrain options and advanced technology.

Key Takeaways

The 2026 ID. Polo will feature two battery options and three motor configurations at launch.
A high-performance ID. Polo GTI variant is slated for release a year later.
The new model is built on the advanced MEB+ platform, enhancing efficiency and reducing weight.
Pricing is expected to start around €25,000, making electric mobility more accessible.

Design and Interior Space

The ID. Polo measures 159.6 inches (4,053 mm) in length, 71.5 inches (1,816 mm) in width, and 60.2 inches (1,530 mm) in height, with a wheelbase of 102.4 inches (2,600 mm). While similar in external dimensions to the current Polo, the interior boasts an extra 0.7 inches (19 mm) of length, translating to improved rear-seat legroom, increased headroom, and greater overall width. Practicality is also enhanced, with a cargo capacity of 15.4 cubic feet (435 liters), expandable to 43.9 cubic feet (1,243 liters) by folding the rear seats.

Powertrain Options

Upon its debut next spring, the ID. Polo will be available with three front-mounted electric motors producing 114 hp (85 kW), 133 hp (99 kW), and 208 hp (155 kW). The base models will utilize a 37 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with a DC fast charging capability of 90 kW. Higher trims will feature a larger 52 kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery, offering an estimated range of up to 280 miles (450 km). This battery employs cell-to-pack technology for improved energy density, reduced cost, and lower weight. These models will support faster 130 kW DC charging.

The performance-oriented ID. Polo GTI is scheduled to arrive a year later, boasting 223 hp (166 kW).

New Platform and Technology

Built on the new MEB+ platform, a refined version of Volkswagen's existing electric architecture, the ID. Polo benefits from reduced complexity, enhanced efficiency, and a lighter construction. The vehicle will also incorporate next-generation driver assistance systems, including an upgraded Travel Assist system that offers assisted lane changes and recognizes traffic lights and stop signs. Volkswagen brand CEO Thomas Schäfer highlighted the ID. Polo as the start of a new era for the company, emphasizing its fresh design, intuitive operation, and accessible pricing, aiming to bring electric mobility to a wider European audience.

2025-07-04

Volvo Shifts Polestar 7 Production to Slovakia to Bypass China Tariffs

Volvo will produce the Polestar 7 electric SUV in Slovakia from 2028, marking Polestar's first European-made model and a strategic move to avoid China tariffs.