The electric revolution is happening, and Volkswagen is doing its part with the unveiling of the Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept at the Munich Motor Show. This hot hatch is electrifying in more ways than one, and the best part? It’s not just a concept; it’s already destined for production.
Design that Screams Sportiness
The ID. GTI Concept takes inspiration from the previously revealed ID. 2all concept but dials up the sportiness several notches. It’s visually striking with black trim around the headlights, adorned with the iconic red GTI highlight that GTI enthusiasts will instantly recognize.
The lower grille is larger, featuring a honeycomb mesh and eye-catching red tow points. Flanking the grille are vertical LED fog lights, adding to its aggressive stance. The front lip spoiler is more pronounced, hinting at the car’s performance pedigree.
Moving to the sides, you’ll notice bold striped graphics running along the sides and the rear hatch. The rear is equally captivating with a black spoiler and dark-tinted taillights. The entire package rides on impressive 20-inch wheels, completing the look of a hot hatch that’s ready to conquer the streets.
Compact and Agile
While the ID. GTI Concept is smaller in most dimensions compared to its gas-powered sibling, the current Golf GTI, it doesn’t compromise on agility. It shares a similar length and wheelbase with the VW Polo GTI, a popular choice in Europe. Its slightly increased height adds to the overall space, which translates to a generous 47 cubic-feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.
Inside, the ID. GTI’s cabin retains the ID. 2all’s modern design but adds sporty tartan sport seats with a distinctive GTI emblem on the driver’s seat. A golf-ball-styled drive mode selector sits prominently, as the actual gear shifter is found on the steering column, following the electric VW tradition. The steering wheel is sportier, featuring an illuminated 12 o’clock mark for that extra touch of sophistication. Behind the wheel, a 10.9-inch instrument cluster awaits, offering customizable graphics, including classic GTI-inspired themes. An augmented reality windshield-sized head-up display adds a futuristic touch to the driving experience.
Powertrain and Performance
While Volkswagen didn’t divulge all the details about the ID. GTI’s powertrain, we do know that it will be front-wheel drive, like the ID. 2all and its GTI predecessors. It’s expected to deliver more power than the ID. 2all, although exact figures remain a mystery. The batteries will be cleverly mounted in the floor, optimizing weight distribution and handling. Notably, the ID. GTI will come equipped with a limited-slip differential, enhancing its cornering prowess.
Volkswagen has also hinted at multiple simulated shift patterns and sounds to recreate the classic GTI driving experience. This feature aims to capture the essence of vintage GTIs, providing a unique and engaging driving sensation.
The Road Ahead
As for when the ID. GTI will hit the market, specific details are yet to be revealed. However, what’s certain is that it will transition from concept to production. The big question for enthusiasts in the United States is whether this electric hot hatch will make its way to American shores.
With the ID. 2all expected to start under $30,000, we can hope that the GTI variant will offer an attractive entry point, ensuring that this electrified hot hatch stays within reach of passionate drivers. As the electric hot hatch segment heats up, Volkswagen’s ID. GTI Concept is poised to make a bold entrance and electrify the world of performance driving.
