It has been over a year since we heard anything new from Volkswagen about the electrified GTI. The company confirmed the ID. GTI concept would go into production in Europe for 2026 but it’s still not known if the model will make its way to the U.S. or not. However, a new report suggests that the production version will be just as exciting to drive as the iconic ICE-powered model and that should be good news for concerned enthusiasts and new buyers alike.
More GTI spice is always nice
The report came from a recent interview Motor1 did with Thomas Schaefer the CEO for Volkswagen Passenger cars. When asked about the model, Schaefer was quick to the punch saying that the EV’s suspension “will be at an even higher level” when compared to the outgoing GTI. This sounds intriguing since the EV will have to lug around a battery pack and the electrified powertrain which would normally make the task of making it dance in the corners a considerable challenge.
Schaefer also indicated that its expectations for the EV reflect a different mindset with engineers moving from delivering a vehicle that merely has high levels of performance, to creating one that’s “even more exciting to experience and drive.” This renewed focus on the experience could make itself known in some of the drive modes and even some of the interior appointments of the car with the latter potentially creating a more immersive environment for drivers to enjoy.
Will GTI EV be delayed like the others?
The production version of the ID.GTI concept already sounds like it will be a potent EV but it will also have to potentially contend with Volkswagen’s recent habit of delaying the U.S. versions of its EVs. The model is slated to begin production in Europe in 2026, but American buyers willing to give the EV a chance will have to wait much longer. The company wants the EV to have a starting price of $25,000 but current market conditions are not gonna make that happen anytime soon.
This is combined with recent delays for models like the ID.Buzz which is just now preparing to make its arrival in the U.S. after a several year delay. This sluggish pace might bite the Buzz in the long run since style-focused vehicles like it tend to have short shelf lives in the minds of consumers. Unlike that model, the GTI EV will have a broader drag net of buyers but innovation and updates among some of its rivals will put it at a disadvantage if it does eventually make its way to the U.S.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.