The SUV world is about to change. Volkswagen is introducing new compact electric models under fresh names, promising to make electric driving more accessible to everyone.
The evolution of EVs: SUVs are next in line
Electric cars initially started as sedans, followed by hatch models, and now SUVs and trucks are powered by full electric powertrains. Many brands are shifting their focus to electric vehicles to ensure they remain established in the market once sales of rechargeable cars surpass traditional combustion vehicles. Volvo, Toyota, Ford, Volkswagen, Fiat, and Lexus are among the top brands that offer top-tier EVs on sale.
Now, a particular company is pioneering a new trend in car manufacturing in Europe. Although it will be launched in most countries, some may be left out of the sales route. VW is creating new versions of old, famous cars and turning them into EVs. They will be fully electric and accessible, as the company is promising that these EVs will be accessible to everyone, and their names follow the minimalist tendencies around the industry.
German automaker will do things differently: No new names for now
Volkswagen will not rename all its EVs immediately. Instead, each model will be given a new name when it enters a new generation and becomes an EV, while the gasoline-powered versions will keep their current names. The first to receive the new treatment will be a European model, originally planned as the ID.2all. It is now set to launch as the ID. Polo in 2026.
The compact Polo is one of Volkswagen’s most popular models in certain markets, though it’s not sold in Canada or the U.S., and it’s still available with traditional engines. For vehicles that offer both powertrains like this one, the Polo will remain gasoline-powered, while the ID. Polo will be fully electric. Volkswagen says this approach “brings together the electric and combustion-engine worlds,” making it easier for customers to navigate their options.
The GTI lineup will also be affected: Check the models
Electrification will also reach the GTI lineup, with the second car under the new naming scheme being the ID. Polo GTI, also expected in 2026. Both models made their debut at the IAA Mobility show in Munich, alongside the ID. Cross Concept. The production ID. Cross, inspired by the concept, will hit European showrooms at the end of 2026 as the all-electric version of the T-Cross, which is not available in North America.
Volkswagen promises that these smaller EVs will make electric driving more affordable. They will also come with upgraded cabins featuring soft materials and a smart mix of digital and physical controls, including more buttons and knobs.
Company not fully invested in EVs: Old-school features are coming back instead
VW is also not going all the way into the tendencies, and it will work on launching cars with buttons instead of touchscreens that can be controlled with only a few taps on the screen. While the technology continues to evolve and manufacturers will have to pay more attention to the details since visceral part of the noise and the burning gasoline smell will come to an end, as many automakers believe it will, some prefer to double down on their ICE projects and leave the EV for the future.
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