Volkswagen’s new small EV will be called the ID. Polo, and there will definitely be a GTI version

A couple of years ago, Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer told TG that the carmaker was all set to bring its classic, well-loved names into the electric era. And there’s been no U-turn here, because we now have confirmation that this process will begin with an all-electric ID. Polo in 2026.

“Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds,” said Schäfer in the present day. “They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”

Even with the colourful camo you may recognise the ID. Polo up above. That’s because we first saw this thing as the affordable ID.2all concept back in 2023. A few months after that, VW followed up with a sporty ID. GTI Concept, and it has now confirmed that will also make production as the ID. Polo GTI. Yep, the GTI badge is along for the EV ride too. Phew.

And this sudden bout of sensibleness from Volkswagen won’t stop there. 

"Volkswagen will transfer more established names to the electric portfolio with each new model generation," says erm... Volkswagen itself. 

"At the same time, all vehicles with conventional drives will continue to run under their previous names. With this strategy, Volkswagen is bringing together the electric and combustion engine worlds, helping customers navigate the brand’s product range more easily in the future."

So, expect to see the next gen ID.3 badged ID. Golf, while the next ID.4 could be ID. Tiguan and an ID.7 successor could be the ID. Passat. Perhaps the ID.Every1 concept from earlier this year will become an ID. Up too?

VW has clearly learnt from Audi and Mercedes that entirely new naming schemes for EVs are already on their way out. This new system all seems very rational, right?