VW Promises an Entire Lineup of 'Astonishing' GTIs, But There’s a Drawback | Carscoops

      The existing GTI lineup currently includes only the performance versions of the Polo and Golf hatchbacks, but that is expected to change in the coming years.

      VW CEO Thomas Schafer has announced plans for a “whole group” of new GTI models.

      These upcoming GTI variants will utilize VW's electric platform and promise an exhilarating driving experience. Schafer has already piloted prototypes of the electric Golf GTI, with the ID.2 GTI set to be released first.

      Almost fifty years ago, Volkswagen revolutionized the hatchback segment with the introduction of the Golf GTI. The “GTI” name, representing Grand Touring Injection, was a reference to the innovative fuel injection system of its four-cylinder engine, a cutting-edge technology when carburetors were still prevalent. While much has changed over the decades, one thing has remained consistent: GTIs have traditionally been gasoline-powered. That is about to change.

      Additionally, Volkswagen is moving towards a new era for the GTI sub-brand, expanding into different segments with fresh models. Notably, all future GTI offerings will feature fully electric powertrains, with VW pledging a “mind-blowing” driving experience.

      The production version of the ID.2 GTI has already been confirmed, and it will be followed by the next-generation Golf GTI. However, these two will not be the only models wearing the GTI badge. According to VW CEO Thomas Schafer, these electric performance hatchbacks will “start a whole group of GTIs,” indicating that more electric performance vehicles are on the way.

      **The Electric GTI Revolution**

      While Schafer didn’t provide specific details, there have been speculations about an ID.3 GTI and a potential entry-level ID.1 GTI, assuming there is sufficient demand for the larger ID.2 GTI, which is the first to be released. Moreover, there’s also the possibility of performance versions of VW’s electric SUVs, which have already showcased their potential with the GTX models.

      In an interview with Autocar, Schafer expressed his excitement regarding the progress of the electric Golf GTI’s development. Although the current gasoline version of the hot hatch is expected to remain available “well into the end of this decade,” Volkswagen is already in the process of testing prototypes for its fully electric successor, which will utilize the new SSP platform.

      Schafer, who has test-driven some GTI prototypes, stated that an electric Golf can still deliver an engaging and authentic experience. He described the new setup as “mind-blowing,” asserting that the electric hot hatch will be “a monster car.”

      He also stressed that the objective is not merely speed; VW aims to ensure that the electric GTI models feel unique compared to their conventional counterparts. Expect enhancements in sound and handling, along with the expected performance boosts.

      This aligns with comments from VW’s technical chief, Kai Grunitz, who mentioned that electric GTIs will focus on more than just sheer power. He emphasized that “drivability” will be key, making sure these models are not only quick but enjoyable to drive.

      **A 2026 Debut?**

      While Volkswagen has yet to confirm a launch date for the first electric GTI, it could debut in 2026, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the original Golf GTI. With the ID.2 (or whatever VW chooses to call it) scheduled for release next year, there’s a possibility that the first electric GTI could be revealed next summer during the GTI festival in Wolfsburg. It seems the future of hot hatches may indeed be electrifying.