This is Volkswagen’s Polo-sized ID.2 EV spotted circulating at the Nürburgring recently. The electric supermini is a vital cog for VW, a brand whose initial attempts at bespoke electric cars haven’t fared too well.
VW’s top brass say this cannot happen again. Utilising a shortened ID.3 body, the ID.2 will feature the firm’s new ‘MEB Entry’ architecture. This will be an optimised version of the original electric platform that will be more flexible. It will also use front-mounted single-motor powertrains instead of rear-drive units. The upshot is more scope for manufacturing simplification and more familiar physical proportions and driving dynamics.
This prototype is using an ID.3 body but you can expect the traditional two-box shape to return, as in the ID.2all Concept. The charge port moves to the front side of this prototype. Other VW electrics have their ports at the rear.
This tester also runs on 20-inch wheels which suggests a concept car feature that will make it through to production.
VW has said efficiency is a key aim so while battery sizes may not be big, the ID.2 should have a range exceeding that of today’s ID.3.
In-cabin tech and user interfaces should also be a step up. Physical controls will return with a balance of digital interfaces and tactile elements. Expect a cleaner, smarter design and premium finish that made Golf and Polo so successful.
The ID.2 is not expected until 2026 and a crossover of similar size will also debut. A Golf-sized ID.3 replacement will sell alongside the ICE power Golf further down the line. Cupra, Skoda and even Seat superminis and crossover models will emerge riding on the same architecture as ID.2.
Also in the news, Volkswagen says its ID GTI concept will prioritise feisty handling and fun over outright power.
It is essentially the sporty variant of the ID.2 and will be the first electric Volkswagen to use the GTI badge. Think of this then as the electric Polo GTI.
Volkswagen technical boss, Kai Grünitz, hinted that the model would focus on go-kart-like handling passion rather than outright acceleration. He said “With a GTI, what’s more important than power is drivability. I’ve driven a prototype and it’s really amazing.” Expect some traditional GTI design cues.
It will also serve as a forerunner to the next electric Golf, due in 2027. This will be the first model to utilise Volkswagen’s advanced SSP platform and the firms design chief, Andreas Mindt, said it will have the authentic face of a Golf.
