Volkswagen to Create Electric Version of GTI Hot Hatchback

Volkswagen has a comprehensive lineup of ID vehicles, including the compact ID.2 and the crossover ID.4. However, the company has now addressed the absence of enthusiast vehicles by introducing the ID.GTI concept, an electric hot hatch that will eventually be produced.

Much like the original GTI that inspired it (the “I” no longer stands for injection, but for “intelligence”), it’s a sporty, compact hatch that looks fast in its place. In terms of size, it’s shorter but taller than the current Golf GTI, with slightly more interior space. The ID.GTI is based on (and strongly resembles) the ID.2all compact, with added features such as 20-inch wheels, front, side and rear spoilers, rear diffuser, honeycomb grille, striped graphics, LED fog lights and more.

It also has handling and performance improvements, but VW didn’t provide any details. The ID.2all model has a 223 hp engine, good for a sprint to 62 MPH in less than seven seconds and an estimated range of 280 miles. The ID.GTI will likely beat those numbers handily though, and the top speed should be faster too.

VW said the ID.GTI would feature an electronically controlled front-axle differential lock to provide traction control, just like the current Golf GTI. And it works even better, the company wrote, “because the configuration of an electric motor, like any electrical system, can be varied almost endlessly.” Its center of gravity is also low, which makes handling easier, thanks to the location of the battery in the floor of the vehicle.

Inside, the ID.GTI concept features tartan-colored sports seats, a drive selector, a sportier steering wheel and a 10.9-inch instrument cluster with a 12.9-inch infotainment system. It also has an AR head-up display that displays information such as speeds and flat track for both the driver and front passenger. The special GTI button activates the red lighting.

Volkswagen said it will produce the ID.GTI concept, but did not say when or where it would go on sale. It’s a good bet it will arrive around the same time as the ID.2all, which is priced under $30,000 and is slated for release in 2025.