Latest news with #ID2
Miami Herald
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
VW ID 2 GTI Clubsport: 282-HP Electric Hot Hatch in Development
Volkswagen is working on a hardcore Clubsport version of its upcoming ID 2 electric hatchback, with more power and a better way to handle it, according to a report from Autocar. Reportedly undergoing development at VW's R&D center in Braunschweig, Germany, this model would carry the legacy of VW's track-ready Golf Clubsport models into the electric era. First shown in concept form in September 2023, the ID GTI is expected to be shown in production-ready form in 2026, with sales starting in 2027. Like its gasoline Golf GTI predecessor, the ID GTI will be a sportier version of a compact hatchback, in this case the production version of VW's ID 2all concept, which was powered by a single electric motor producing 223 hp. Autocar is forecasting 282 hp for the Clubsport, with the standard ID GTI likely somewhere in between in output. Like other ID 2 models, the Clubsport will have front-wheel drive. But a mechanical limited-slip differential will ensure better grip, while also enabling torque vectoring between the front wheels. An anonymous VW insider with knowledge of the project told Autocar that the Clubsport will employ this "fully mechanical system" rather than the software-controlled, brake-based torque vectoring used in many other cars. Related: 5 Reasons The Latest Golf GTI Is A Future Icon A mechanical limited-slip diff will give the ID 2 GTI Clubsport a more analog feel, as will the variable torque delivery and simulated gearshift functions VW is also reportedly considering for it. Together, these functions will replicate the stepped response of a manual transmission while eliminating the jerkiness under hard acceleration that can sometimes accompany manual shifts, according to the report. This would make for quite the transformation of the basic ID 2 hatch, will use a new derivative of the MEB platform from current VW EVs like the ID.4 and Called MEB Entry, this architecture will help the base ID 2 achieve a base price below 25,000 euros (about $29,000 at current exchange rates). The GTI and Clubsport versions will be pricier-assuming they make it to the U.S. at all (VW hasn't confirmed anything yet)-with the Clubsport likely being a limited edition in line with previous Clubsport models. VW launched the first Golf GTI Clubsport in 2016 to mark the GTI's 40th anniversary, quickly following that up with a Clubsport S version that set a Nürburgring lap record for front-wheel drive production cars. A Clubsport version of the current Mark VIII GTI was unveiled in 2024 with 296 hp, a significant bump from the 241 hp of the current U.S.-spec GTI, but it remains a Europe-only affair. Clubsport may not be the only iconic hot-hatch badge VW is applying to the upcoming ID 2. Another Autocar report from just last week hints at an ID R that, like the internal-combustion Golf R, will have all-wheel drive. But in this case, that will come courtesy of in-wheel motors producing around 400 hp. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Miami Herald
19-06-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Future VW Golf R EV Could Use Radical In-Wheel Motors
Volkswagen is said to be working on a hot version of the ID 2 small hatchback, likely to be known as the ID 2 R. While VW doesn't sell a hatchback smaller than the Golf in the United States, the ID 2 R could pave the way for the future all-electric Golf R, and VW seems to have come up with a clever way of integrating electric motors. These plans were revealed by Autocar, with its sources suggesting the ID 2 R will use electric hub motors situated in the rear wheels. As we'll see, this layout has multiple benefits. VW is already expected to debut the electric in 2026, but the new ID 2 R will be a lot more advanced. In addition to the front-mounted electric motor in the GTI, the R model will get independently controlled motors within the rear wheels, dramatically increasing performance and enabling all-wheel drive, which has traditionally been associated with the Golf R. By not going the more conventional dual-motor route, VW will be able to save weight and reduce the impact on trunk space, both important considerations in a compact car. Whereas the ID 2 GTI will make around 286 horsepower, a more likely output in the three-motor ID 2 R will be about 400 hp. This, together with the torque vectoring made possible by the hub motors, should make for a shockingly quick and agile hot hatch. Even more performance could be extracted from the larger Golf R EV with the same setup. While hub motors have many advantages, they can also increase unsprung mass - the weight of the components not supported by the suspension - which can negatively impact handling and grip. On the upside, the ID 2 R's tech has the potential to filter through to other small VWs with all-wheel drive. It would also allow cars with FWD, RWD, and AWD to be more easily built on the same platform, reducing costs and complexity. For now, the Golf R will soldier on as a potent ICE hatchback with its 328-hp turbo engine, snappy dual-clutch transmission, and dependable AWD system. But the potential of an electric successor looks bright - don't expect it to arrive much earlier than 2029 or 2030, though, especially with multiple brands backtracking on their EV plans. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Auto Express
11-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Volkswagen Polo Edition 50 celebrates, well guess…
Volkswagen has revealed a new Polo Edition 50 to celebrate the popular supermini's half century of existence. Priced from £26,350, it'll be available in what VW calls limited numbers in the UK, with sales kicking off later this month. Unique to the Polo Edition 50 is the Crystal Blue paintwork, further enhanced by 17-inch alloy wheels and unique Edition 50 badges. Uprated LED front and rear lights are also standard fit, helping give the whole car an almost luxurious feel above and beyond the usual found in the supermini class. Advertisement - Article continues below Inside, VW has fitted more Edition 50 badges, plus a gloss black dashboard insert and privacy glass on the rear windows. Equipment has also been upgraded with a panoramic glass roof, dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera and keyless access and starting. Under the bonnet is a single 89bhp three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine option, matched to a five-speed manual transmission. There's no sign of a dual-clutch option, or more powerful powertrains, leading to an unusual combination of a very high equipment list paired with one of the lower-specification engines. Yet while it might be easy to sign this special edition off as a rather thin effort in celebrating 50 years of an iconic model like the Polo, VW has much bigger plans later in the year when its all-electric ID.2, or arrives as the lynchpin for the brand's entire future line up. While the Polo isn't going anywhere quite yet, it'll be the new ID.2 which represents VW's actual celebration of offering an affordable model to buyers wanting the Volkswagen experience, just as the first Polo did 50 years ago. Only now, it won't have a combustion engine. Now you can buy a car through our network of top dealers around the UK. Search for the latest deals…
Scottish Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Major car maker to release range of ‘mind-blowing' performance models including reimagined fan favourite hot hatchback
"We have driven a few prototypes that we have built on the new set-up, and it is mind-blowing" Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) VOLKSWAGEN'S fan-favourite GTI performance range is set to continue into its all-electric future. In fact, the German giant promises it will be better than ever, with multiple model lines confirmed by CEO Thomas Schafer - who claims these new machines will be "mind-blowing" to drive. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Volkswagen's iconic GTI range is set to electrify the roads before the end of the decade Credit: Volkswagen AG 3 The ninth-generation all-electric Golf GTI promises excitement and innovation, blending sustainability with the unmistakable GTI spirit Credit: Volkswagen AG 3 Celebrating 50 years of Golf legacy, Volkswagen prepares to redefine hot hatchbacks once again Credit: Getty According to Autocar, the GTI range will go electric in 2026, starting with the ID-named GTI concept – a souped-up iteration of the ID 2 supermini. Naturally, a GTI version of the forthcoming all-electric ninth-generation Golf will also arrive by the end of the decade, marking the beginning of 'a whole group of GTI" models set to roll out in subsequent years. Work is reportedly already under way on the development of the first electric GTI models, with particular attention being paid to ensuring they are just as fun to drive as their predecessors. Schafer said: "First of all, can you make an electric Golf exciting? Absolutely. "We have driven a few prototypes that we have built on the new set-up, and it is mind-blowing." He added that the brand's priority is to engineer its electric GTI range in a way that makes its hot hatchbacks feel distinct from the standard models. Schafer said: "What about the sound? What about the total feel? The handling and so on can be done.' However, with the current petrol-powered car set to remain on sale for several more years, the production version of the electric Golf GTI will not appear in showrooms for some time. Schafer added: "We have time now, as the Golf is running very well into the end of this decade, and at the end of the decade, we'll bring an electric Golf." He also claimed the electric GTI will be "a monster car", adding: "I'm very happy with the progress. The world's most famous hatchback turned 50 in 2024 – key reasons why it's still going strong and loved by millions 'It's cool, and you can make it exciting. It has to be exciting, and it has to be authentic.' No date has been given for when VW plans to unveil the final version of the ID 2 GTI, although the standard car is due to launch in early 2026. Earlier this year, we revealed how the most noticeable change to the ninth-gen Golf would be its nameplate - with it set to be called the ID Golf. VW's ID range, which currently includes several models, is how the brand separates its lineup of fully electric vehicles - all developed as part of their commitment to sustainable mobility and reducing carbon emissions. The "ID" stands for Intelligent Design, Identity, and Idea, which reflects the German marque's vision for the future. Last year, the Golf celebrated its 50th year and we were lucky to rub shoulders with the Mk1 Golf Owners Club at the NEC Classic Motor Show in Birmingham.
The Sun
25-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Major car maker to release range of ‘mind-blowing' performance models including reimagined fan favourite hot hatchback
VOLKSWAGEN'S fan-favourite GTI performance range is set to continue into its all-electric future. In fact, the German giant promises it will be better than ever, with multiple model lines confirmed by CEO Thomas Schafer - who claims these new machines will be "mind-blowing" to drive. 3 3 3 According to Autocar, the GTI range will go electric in 2026, starting with the ID-named GTI concept – a souped-up iteration of the ID 2 supermini. Naturally, a GTI version of the forthcoming all-electric ninth-generation Golf will also arrive by the end of the decade, marking the beginning of 'a whole group of GTI" models set to roll out in subsequent years. Work is reportedly already under way on the development of the first electric GTI models, with particular attention being paid to ensuring they are just as fun to drive as their predecessors. Schafer said: "First of all, can you make an electric Golf exciting? Absolutely. "We have driven a few prototypes that we have built on the new set-up, and it is mind-blowing." He added that the brand's priority is to engineer its electric GTI range in a way that makes its hot hatchbacks feel distinct from the standard models. Schafer said: "What about the sound? What about the total feel? The handling and so on can be done.' However, with the current petrol-powered car set to remain on sale for several more years, the production version of the electric Golf GTI will not appear in showrooms for some time. Schafer added: "We have time now, as the Golf is running very well into the end of this decade, and at the end of the decade, we'll bring an electric Golf." He also claimed the electric GTI will be "a monster car", adding: "I'm very happy with the progress. The world's most famous hatchback turned 50 in 2024 – key reasons why it's still going strong and loved by millions 'It's cool, and you can make it exciting. It has to be exciting, and it has to be authentic.' No date has been given for when VW plans to unveil the final version of the ID 2 GTI, although the standard car is due to launch in early 2026. Earlier this year, we revealed how the most noticeable change to the ninth-gen Golf would be its nameplate - with it set to be called the ID Golf. VW's ID range, which currently includes several models, is how the brand separates its lineup of fully electric vehicles - all developed as part of their commitment to sustainable mobility and reducing carbon emissions. The "ID" stands for Intelligent Design, Identity, and Idea, which reflects the German marque's vision for the future. Last year, the Golf celebrated its 50th year and we were lucky to rub shoulders with the Mk1 Golf Owners Club at the NEC Classic Motor Show in Birmingham.
