The Volkswagen ID. GTI Idea debuted on the IAA motor present in Munich, Germany. VW already confirms that the manufacturing model debuts in 2026 and goes on sale in early 2027. Of us from the corporate are actually dropping some particulars in regards to the mannequin’s growth.

VW R&D workforce chief Kai Grünitz says the corporate already has a drivable prototype, and the fifth-gen GTI is a benchmark for the challenge. “We wish to make it agile, actually direct and so you may really feel the highway with the damper settings. It’ll be quick however easy and it’ll want extra energy than the ID 2 All,” he advised Autocar. A pretend engine sound impressed by earlier GTIs performs within the cabin, however drivers can flip this off.

The manufacturing model rides on the MEB Entry platform and shares a physique in white with the ID. 2. It’s a bit smaller than the idea, which measures 161.5 inches lengthy, 72.4 inches large, 59 inches tall, and a 102.3-inch wheelbase. For comparability, the present Golf-based GTI is 168.8 inches lengthy, 70.4 inches large, 57.6 inches tall, and a 103.6-inch wheelbase.

VW is retaining the GTX moniker that it presently makes use of for high-performance electrical fashions. “GTX goes into sure segments, and is four-wheel drive. This [concept] is front-wheel drive and GTI shall be for front-wheel drive,” Volkswagen design boss Andreas Mindt advised Autocar.

Mindt stated the ID. GTI Idea got here collectively in simply three months. The ID. 2 design was already full, so this car solely required tweaks to match the GTI aesthetic, like a extra aggressive entrance fascia. The designer stated his favourite half was the wheels impressed by the unique GTI however now in aluminum moderately than metal.

VW plans for the ID.2 to price across the equal of $26,756 (25,000 euros). The GTI variant can be a bit costlier. “Like with the Mk1 GTI, we will persuade individuals with a less expensive automotive, extra approachable and extra for the individuals,” Mindt stated.

For extra dialogue in regards to the ID. GTI Idea try the most recent episode of Rambling About Automobiles: