Volkswagen postpones Golf EV launch, unveils ID. Polo GTI

Volkswagen has introduced a GTI‑styled version of its ID. Polo electric hatchback. The ID. Polo GTI, slated for a 2026 release, produces 166 kW (226 hp), accelerates from 0‑100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and carries a 52 kWh battery that offers up to 424 km WLTP range. It features 19‑inch wheels, red‑accented styling cues and a digitally configurable 10.25‑inch driver display plus a 12.9‑inch central touchscreen. Pre‑orders are expected to open in mid‑October, though pricing has not been announced.

At the same time, Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer told the Financial Times Future of the Car Summit that the fully electric Golf will not arrive until at least 2030, later than the originally targeted 2028. Schäfer said the company already has a sufficiently broad EV lineup and that delays in the new Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) – the 800‑volt architecture meant to underpin future models – have pushed the Golf’s timeline back. The SSP rollout will begin with premium group brands such as Audi and Porsche, with VW adopting it later. In the interim, VW will continue expanding its ID family with the ID. 3 Neo, ID. Cross and other models to cover the compact segment.