As the all-new 2026 Volkswagen ID. Polo iches closer to its full unveiling, VW has released new pics of the all-electric hatch’s fresh cabin design that will go on to inspire all future models from the German giant.
The good news is the Volkswagen ID. Polo hosts the return of plenty of proper buttons that provide shortcut functions.
They have been reintroduced following customer feedback and scathing reviews over having to use a touchscreen for all minor functions.
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Already previewed back in 2023 by the ID.2all concept, the new production ID. Polo features a new 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that is blended with a 13-inch landscape-mounted infotainment touchscreen.
Unlike all current VW ID models, the new ID. Polo banishes the irritating slider that was used to control the volume and temperature and lacked illumination in earely cars.
In its place is a more intuitive rotary dial for the volume that can also operate the radio, or switch tracks, plus a row of physical dials that raise or lower the climate control or switch on the hazards.
Other changes include a new flat-bottom (and top) steering wheel that features buttons in place of the haptic touch surfaces,
Helping it offset what’s likely to be a price premium over the likes of the BYD Dolphin and MG4, VW says there’s been liberal use of high-grade materials that include a new fabric-covered dash and a premium finish for the door cards, seats and interior.
All seat and door fabrics are made from plastics derived from recycled plastic bottles.
Ahead of the driver is a new dash that features a delightful retro-mode that delivers graphics modelled on the original Polo or early Mk1 Golf, with analogue dials, an early take on a trip computer and even a display for a tape deck.
The nearby infotainment gets a cleaner, clearer, easier-to-use design, with a navigation that can operate using Google Maps.
Like the original ID.2all concept the new ID. Polo is said to offer levels of space on par with the latest Golf, thanks to its flat floor and lack of combustion engine and transmission.
In the boot there’s 435 litres of luggage space.
When it arrives on sale in Europe later this year, Volkswagen has already revealed the ID. Polo will come with the choice of two batteries and up to four powertrains, including a fast GTI.
Beneath the skin, the ID. Polo hatchbacks will be based on the ID.3’s MEB platform that has been comprehensively re-engineered to be lighter and less complex while delivering significantly improved levels of efficiency.
In Europe a total of four powertrains will be available. Entry versions are powered by a small 37kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery combined with either an 85kW or 99kW e-motor that drives the front wheels.
A larger 52kWh battery is also an option that uses nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry and is combined with either a 155kW e-motor or a 166kW output if you opt for the sportiest GTI.
The range for the bigger power pack is said to be up to 450km, with charging capped at around 130kW using a DC fast charger.
That’s a significant improvement on the lowly 90kW the small battery is charged at.
While cheaper to produce, the VW MEB+ platform introduces yet more autonomous driving aids.
These include VW’s upgraded Travel Assist adaptive cruise control that’s now capable of auto lane changes and traffic light and stop sign recognition.
In Europe, the ID. Polo is priced from €25,000 ($44,000). It commands a €5000 ($8800) price premium over the current combustion version that will go updated and sold alongside the small EV.
The new Volkswagen ID. Polo will be built in Martorell in Spain alongside the Cupra Raval EV that was developed alongside the new VW.
The same platform will also provide the building blocks for the smaller ID.1 hatch, the ID. Cross small SUV and a further two SUVs and two sedans that will be aimed for Chinese buyers.
The arrival of the ID. Polo is just one of six new EVs Volkswagen will launch in 2026 as the brand attempts to play catch-up with its Chinese rivals.
