Volkswagen is bringing one of its most recognisable names into the electric age, with the all-new ID. Polo. It’s the seventh generation of a car that’s already racked up more than 20 million sales, but this time it’s an ID electric car, although petrol Polos are likely to soldier on, too.
I’ve already had the chance to climb inside the new ID. Polo for a proper look around, and first impressions are strong. The design feels clean and modern without losing that familiar Polo identity, while the quality and design – both inside and out – is a clear step on with some delightful and surprising features. It feels solid, neatly put together and more grown-up than you might expect from a car in this class.
Underneath, the new car sits on Volkswagen’s latest MEB+ platform, designed specifically for smaller electric models. That means front-wheel drive and a layout that frees up more space inside than you’d normally expect from a car of this size. At just over 4 metres long, it’s still firmly in supermini territory, but Volkswagen says there’s room for five people and a boot offering up to 441 litres.
That extra space is noticeable. Sitting in the back, there’s a bit more legroom than you’d expect, and the flat floor helps make it feel more open. It’s not just a city car anymore – it feels capable of handling everyday life without compromise.
At launch, buyers will be able to choose from two batteries with three power outputs. The smaller 37 kWh battery pack is available with either a 116bhp or 134bhp electric motor, and claimed range is up to 204 miles. Step up to the larger 52 kWh battery with a 208bhp motor and the range increases to a maximum of 283 miles.
A hotter GTI version with 223 bhp has already been previewed as a concept, but is expected to arrive in production form a little later than the regular car.
Charging looks competitive for the class. All versions support DC rapid charging as standard, with the smaller battery capable of speeds up to 90 kW and the larger one up to 105 kW. Volkswagen says that should allow a 10 to 80 per cent top-up in around 27 minutes for the smaller battery and about 24 minutes for the larger one.
As you’d expect from a new electric model, there’s a strong focus on tech. The ID. Polo will be available with features such as a digital key allowing access via a smartphone, and a new version of Volkswagen’s driver assistance system called Connected Travel Assist. This uses online data and, unusually for this class, can recognise traffic lights and react to them, automatically slowing the car to a stop if needed.
There’s also one-pedal driving, letting you control acceleration and braking using just the accelerator pedal, plus a vehicle-to-load function. That effectively turns the car into a mobile power source, meaning you can plug in external devices like e-bikes or camping equipment.
Inside is where things really stand out. The new infotainment system is slick, with a large central screen and a crisp driver display, but it’s the little touches that catch your eye. There’s a retro display mode that harks back to older Volkswagen dashboards, and it works surprisingly well – a nice blend of old-school charm and modern tech. It’s intuitive to use, too, with a mix of touchscreen and proper physical buttons for key functions.
Volkswagen has clearly listened to feedback here from earlier ID cars. There are real buttons for things like climate control, which will make life easier on the move, and the overall layout feels simple and logical. Materials look and feel a cut above what you might expect, with plenty of attention to detail.
Three main trim levels will be offered from launch. The entry-level model comes with features such as LED headlights, a digital cockpit and driver assistance systems including lane assist. Moving up to a higher trim level adds more comfort-focused equipment like adaptive cruise control and a rear-view camera, while the top version brings extras such as matrix LED headlights, upgraded interior materials and heated seats.
Volkswagen is also offering some features more commonly found in larger cars. Optional extras include a panoramic glass roof, a high-end Harman Kardon sound system with 10 speakers and even electrically adjustable seats with a massage function, something rarely seen in this segment.
In terms of design, the ID. Polo sticks closely to Volkswagen’s familiar look, but with a cleaner, more modern feel. The front end has a softer, more rounded appearance with smiling front lights, while the side profile keeps the straight lines that have defined previous Polos. At the back, a full-width light bar helps give it a wider stance.
The shift to electric has also helped improve interior space. With no traditional engine layout to work around, the cabin offers more legroom, especially in the rear, and a flatter floor. The wheelbase has stretched to 2,600 mm, helping with overall packaging.
Volkswagen says the car has been engineered to balance comfort and handling, with a new chassis setup designed specifically for front-wheel-drive electric models. The aim is to deliver a familiar feel for existing Volkswagen drivers, with predictable handling and a comfortable ride.
Pricing is expected to start at under £25,000, putting the ID. Polo right into the heart of the growing affordable EV market. Deliveries are likely to begin by the end of the year in the UK, as Volkswagen ramps up its push into smaller, more accessible electric cars.
When it does arrive, it won’t have the segment to itself. Key rivals will include the reborn Renault 5, the closely related Cupra Raval – which is also expected to land this year at a similar price point – and the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 3, another compact EV targeting the £25,000 mark.
For Volkswagen, the ID. Polo represents more than just another new model. It’s another step in Volkswagen’s relaunch, writing the wrongs of its first electric cars and using a name that’s already well known to buyers. With strong range figures, fast charging and a focus on practicality, it’s clearly aimed at making the switch to electric feel as straightforward and normal as possible.
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