The powertrain in the Volkswagen ID. GTI has been kept fairly simple, with a single electric motor directing power to the front wheels. Although no outputs were given, other models in the VW Group stable, such as the Cupra Tavascan and Raval, produce between 226 and 282 horsepower from the same platform. That gives the ID. GTI the potential to be more powerful than the Golf GTI (241 hp), and with the instant power delivery of an electric motor, 0-60 mph times of below six seconds don’t seem out of reach.
Like the existing GTI hatch, the ID. GTI uses an electronically controlled front-axle differential lock. This traction control system makes the most of the FWD configuration and should allow the GTI to put its power down cleanly. Compared to gas models, the Vehicles Dynamics Manager of this EV integrates the powertrain into the control system more than before. It all means that drivers will have more control over the various GTI driving profiles, selectable via the new GTI Experience Control system.
Almost everything – the drive system, running gear, sound, steering, and shift points – can be adjusted. Those shift points can even mirror the shift points seen in past gas-powered GTIs, although this sounds like VW’s engineers got a bit too overcome by nostalgia. We may have to eat our words if it all translates to a throwback driving experience, though.
VW claims the ID. GTI will be well-suited to track days thanks to its low center of gravity, which is made possible by the placement of the battery in the floor, and the EV’s light weight.