Exactly 48 years after the first-ever Golf GTI debuted at the Frankfurt auto show, Volkswagen revealed the ID. GTI Concept at the 2023 Munich auto show and presented what the famous GTI name could bring to its ID. lineup of electric vehicles.
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The ID. GTI is based on the previous ID. 2all concept shown in March. An all-electric hatchback with a targeted price of around 25,000 euros (at current exchange rates as of this writing, that’s roughly $27,000), the ID. 2all is likely to enter production in some form, though VW is unlikely to bring a small hatchback to our SUV-crazy shores. A high-performance (and more expensive) variant like this ID. GTI may have a better chance, however, as it’s similar to the automaker’s strategy of selling the Golf R and Golf GTI here for longer than the more economical Golf hatchback on which both are based.
As with previous gas-powered GTI models, the ID. GTI Concept is front-wheel drive and is the first Volkswagen EV to use the electronic locking front differential found in the Golf GTI and Golf GTI Clubsport, which should deliver the sort of FWD performance we’re used to seeing from hatchbacks wearing the GTI badge. The electric powertrain has a few additional tricks up its sleeves, including what VW says is the ability to mimic a selection of iconic VW hot hatches. Drivers can adjust everything from the power, suspension, steering, sound and simulated shift points to emulate Golfs including the original 1976 GTI, 1986 GTI Mark 2 and 2001 GTI Mark 4.
In terms of looks, the ID. GTI Concept borrows heavily from the ID. 2all concept, with a similar lighting design and an identical two-door hatchback body style. GTI-specific touches include the red trim with GTI badging below the grille, red front tow hooks, an aggressive body kit and vents ahead of the front wheels that try to optimize aerodynamics and air flow to cool the brakes. The car is shorter and wider than the current Golf GTI in its concept form; a production version would likely have four doors and possibly more similar dimensions. In back, a roof-mounted spoiler, square taillights and diffuser-like bumper styling complete the aggressive look.
We only have sketches, but the ID. GTI Concept’s interior should be appropriately high-tech, including a 12.9-inch touchscreen display and fully digital 10.9-inch instrument panel that VW says will allow occupants “to experience the GTI idea in more varied ways than before.” Throwback details include a three-spoke steering wheel inspired by the first-generation GTI and sport seats with iconic plaid upholstery.
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While not as crazy as the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, the ID. GTI Concept signals that more automakers are recognizing that EVs can and should be fun to drive. Stay tuned for more details on potential production versions of this concept car — and whether or not you’ll be able to buy one in North America.
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