By Otsile Kadiege

Volkswagen is reshaping the future of mobility – not only with new electric models but also with a bold naming strategy that bridges the brand’s legendary past with its electric future. From 2026, beloved model names such as Polo and GTI will become part of the ID. family, making electric mobility more personal, relatable, and accessible to everyday drivers.

A new naming strategy

Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer explains the move:

“Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”

This means that while combustion-powered models will keep their traditional names, new generations of ID. vehicles will proudly wear familiar badges like Polo, GTI, and T-Cross – now electrified.

ID. Polo – 50 years in the making

Launching in 2026 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Polo, the all-new ID. Polo promises to democratize electric mobility the same way the original Polo once made innovation, safety, and reliability accessible to millions.

Volkswagen says the ID. Polo will combine quality, safety, and everyday practicality with advanced electric technology – making it a natural evolution of a nameplate that has shaped countless memories for drivers worldwide.

ID. Polo GTI – electrified driving fun

For enthusiasts, the good news doesn’t stop there. Also coming in 2026 is the ID. Polo GTI, bringing one of VW’s most iconic performance badges into the electric era.

Martin Sander, VW’s Board Member for Sales, Marketing, and Aftersales, says:

“We are bringing one of our strongest brands, the GTI, into the electric world. The ID. Polo GTI will offer outstanding dynamics and plenty of driving pleasure.”

Expect the same GTI spirit – sharp handling, sporty looks, and everyday usability – now with instant electric torque.

ID. Cross – the electric T-Cross

On 7 September, ahead of IAA MOBILITY Munich (8–14 September), Volkswagen will also pull the covers off the ID. CROSS Concept – a compact electric SUV set to launch as the ID. Cross by the end of 2026. Positioned as the EV sibling to the T-Cross, it promises affordability, family-friendly practicality, and the latest digital features.

More affordable, more intuitive, more premium

With these new models, Volkswagen is addressing customer feedback more closely than ever. Expect improved cabin quality with soft-touch materials, a balanced mix of digital and physical controls (yes, buttons are back!), and a more intuitive operating concept.

This evolution also makes electric mobility more affordable – opening the door to younger buyers and families who want to switch to EVs without sacrificing quality or brand familiarity.

From ID.3 to ID.7 – and beyond

The ID. family began in 2018 with the ID.3 and has since grown to include the ID.4, ID.5, and range-topping ID.7, which currently leads the German and European EV markets. With the introduction of the ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI, and ID. Cross, Volkswagen is completing the puzzle by bringing smaller, more accessible cars into the lineup