Volkswagen has a long and proud history of producing hot hatches, the sporty and fun-to-drive versions of its compact cars. The Golf GTI is the most iconic and popular model in this segment, having been around since 1976 and spawning several generations of loyal fans. But as the world shifts to electric mobility, Volkswagen is not resting on its laurels. It is ready to embrace the change and offer a new kind of hot hatch for the future: the Volkswagen ID.GTI Concept.
The ID.GTI is based on the Volkswagen ID.2all concept, which is a small electric crossover that will go into production by 2027 as the ID.2. The ID.2 will be the smallest and most affordable model in Volkswagen’s electric ID family, which also includes the ID.3 hatchback, the ID.4 SUV, and the ID.6 three-row SUV. The ID.GTI Concept shows how Volkswagen can transform the ID.2 into a performance-oriented machine that can rival the Golf GTI in terms of driving dynamics and emotional appeal.
Design: Sporty, Electric, Emotive
The design of the Volkswagen ID.GTI is inspired by the classic GTI elements, such as the red accents, the honeycomb grille, and the tartan seats. However, it also incorporates modern and futuristic features that reflect its electric nature and advanced technology.
The exterior of the Volkswagen ID.GTI Concept is characterized by sharp lines, muscular proportions, and aerodynamic details. The front fascia features a black trim around the LED headlights with a red highlight and a GTI logo. The lower grille is also black with a large opening, honeycomb mesh, and red tow hooks. Vertical LED fog lights are placed on either end of the bumper, and a deep front lip spoiler adds to the sporty look.
The side profile of the ID.GTI Concept reveals black fender flares, sculpted side skirts, and 20-inch wheels with a two-tone design. The roofline slopes down to the rear, creating a coupe-like silhouette. The doors have no handles but instead use touch sensors to open and close. A striped graphic runs along the sides and the rear hatch, adding some flair to the body.
The rear of the ID.GTI Concept features a black spoiler and dark-tinted taillights that span the hatch's width. A black diffuser with integrated exhaust tips completes the aggressive appearance.
The interior of the ID.GTI Concept is minimalist and futuristic, with a focus on digitalization and functionality. The dashboard is dominated by a 10.9-inch instrument cluster that can display different modes and information, including classic GTI instrument layouts as an homage to the past. A large head-up display projects augmented reality graphics onto the windshield, enhancing the driving experience and safety.
The steering wheel is sporty and flat-bottomed, with an illuminated 12 o'clock mark and touch-sensitive controls. The shifter is located on the steering column, like other electric VWs. The drive mode selector is shaped like a golf ball, another nod to the GTI heritage.
The seats are upholstered in tartan fabric with red stitching and feature integrated headrests and side bolsters. The driver’s seat has a GTI heart logo on it, expressing the passion behind the concept. The rear seats can be folded down to create more cargo space if needed.
