The Polo is Back – Now Electric: Volkswagen Unveils ID.Polo and ID.Polo GTI for 2026

Volkswagen is set to revive some of its most iconic model names as it expands its electric vehicle (EV) lineup.

Starting in 2026, the ID.Polo will mark the first step in this strategy, reintroducing a nameplate that has long been recognized worldwide. This move signals a major shift in Volkswagen’s naming approach, as ID models will no longer rely solely on numbers.

Alongside the ID.Polo, Volkswagen will also launch the ID.Polo GTI, bringing the legendary GTI performance badge into the EV era. Designed to appeal to hot hatch enthusiasts, the ID.Polo GTI promises exciting performance while maintaining the everyday practicality the Polo series is known for.

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Brand, emphasized: “Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design, and innovative technologies. That’s why we are moving these well-known names into the future.”

The ID.Polo and ID.Polo GTI, still camouflaged, will make their global debut at the IAA MOBILITY event in Munich from September 8–14, 2025. Just a day before, Volkswagen will showcase the concept version of a new electric compact SUV, the ID.Cross Concept, with the production model set to launch at the end of 2026 as the EV counterpart to the T-Cross.

Volkswagen plans to transfer more established names to its electric portfolio with each new model generation, while vehicles with conventional combustion engines will retain their original names.

This strategy not only bridges the gap between VW’s electric and traditional models but also makes it easier for customers to navigate the brand’s growing product range.