The Volkswagen Electric GTI: A Comprehensive Review
Image Credits go to Volkswagen-newsroom
The Volkswagen Electric GTI, set to debut in 20261, is an exciting addition to the world of electric vehicles. This post will delve into the specifications, design, performance, and electric features of the upcoming Electric GTI, comparing it with its internal combustion engine counterparts and other electric vehicles in the market.
Specifications
The Electric GTI will be built on the front-drive MEB 21 EV platform, previewed by the ID2all concept1. This platform is lighter and simpler to produce than Volkswagen’s rear- and all-wheel-drive MEB platform1. The powertrain hardware is packaged under the hood, offering more useful load space, including a deep underfloor compartment behind the multilink rear axle1. The Golf GTI EV will boast a 320-hp version of the new APP550 motor fitted to the ID7 sedan, driving through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential1.
Design
The Electric GTI is easily recognizable as part of the GTI lineage2. Its compact shape is about the same size as the original Golf GTI, and quite a bit smaller than the current gasoline model2. The compact electric motor and battery under the floor mean that it can have an equally spacious interior on a much smaller footprint2. The side profile continues to be defined by a strong rear pillar, separating the rear door from the hatch2. Large, 20-inch wheels, extended side skirts, an aggressive rear diffuser, and numerous red accents hint at a sporty driving experience2.
Performance
While Volkswagen isn’t ready yet to share power and range figures for the ID.GTI, it does say that the company’s first electric GTI model will live up to the badge’s fun-to-drive heritage2. The Electric GTI is being engineered to retain the sparkling performance feel and fun-to-drive handling that has been the Golf GTI’s hallmark since 19751.
Electric Features
The Electric GTI will feature a front-axle differential lock—electronically controlled by a Vehicle Dynamics Manager3. This intelligent system, used in the current generation of the GTI, will now be on board for the first time in an electric Volkswagen3. The Vehicle Dynamics Manager of the ID. GTI Concept integrates the powertrain into the control system to an even greater degree than on the gasoline models3.
Advancements Over Traditional GTI Models
The Electric GTI marks a return to the sharp and confident styling that became a hallmark of Volkswagens in the Ferdinand Piëch era1. It ends the idea that electric Volkswagens need to look different from their ICE siblings1. The Golf GTI also marks a recognition that Volkswagen EVs need to become lighter and more fun to drive. The Electric GTI will boast a 320-hp version of the new APP550 motor fitted to the ID7 sedan, driving through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential1.
Driving Experience
The Electric GTI boasts different drive modes meant to mimic the driving behaviours of older GTI4. These modes will alter the “drive system, running gear, steering, sound experience and even the simulated shift points in the style of one of the historical GTI models.
Charging Capabilities
Unfortunately, specific information about the charging capabilities of the Volkswagen Electric GTI is not available at this time.
Benefits for Users
The Electric GTI offers generous interior space and battery capacity ranges suitable for everyday driving6. It also allows software to be updated over-the-air6. In terms of running costs, the ID.3 01 scores with clear benefits7. For example, electricity costs per month are around 40 euros below the fuel costs for petrol or diesel vehicles7.
Comparison with Internal Combustion Engine Counterparts
The Electric GTI is designed to be an electric-age successor to the car that created the original hot hatch, the Golf GTI, now in its eighth generation1. The GTI EV is being engineered to retain the sparkling performance feel and fun-to-drive handling that has been the Golf GTI’s hallmark since 1975 and to provide similar levels of room and practicality to today’s ICE version1.
Image Credits go to Volkswagen-newsroom
Comparison with Other Electric Vehicles in the Market
The Electric GTI is being developed to deliver a hallmark experience despite not running on gas1. It promises a fun character, just like Volkswagen’s famous GTI hot-hatch performance car.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Electric GTI is a promising addition to the electric vehicle market. It retains the iconic GTI’s sporty performance and fun-to-drive handling while offering the benefits of electric mobility. With its anticipated release in 2026, the Electric GTI is set to electrify the roads and the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.
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