Can an electric version of the GTI be more thrilling to drive than its combustion-powered predecessors? Volkswagen certainly thinks so. CEO Thomas Schäfer believes that the upcoming electric GTI, rumored to be based on the ID. GTI Concept, will have a better chassis and suspension than any GTI in history, making it even more exciting to experience and drive.
While skepticism is healthy when it comes to automakers’ claims, it’s important to consider that electric vehicles, especially performance EVs, are still in their relatively early stages. People have always been quick to dismiss new technologies that deviate from familiar formulas, such as arguments between front- and rear-wheel drive or manual versus dual-clutch transmissions. However, progress doesn’t have to be boring, and VW is confident that their first EV hot hatch will prove to be anything but.
The GTI has always been known for its deft approach to performance, focusing on excellent handling and chassis feel rather than brute force. Even without the standout VR6 engine in many generations, the GTI’s perceived performance remained strong. Volkswagen aims to carry on this legacy by creating an EV with outstanding feel and handling, drawing inspiration from classics like the Mk1 and Mk5 GTIs. According to VW’s R&D boss, Kai Grünitz, the goal is to deliver an agile steering feel and a smooth driving experience through curves. The EV GTI will be fast but also smooth, allowing drivers to feel the road with the damper settings.
To achieve this, VW has made the ID. GTI smaller than recent versions of the GTI and has paid careful attention to the EV’s weight. Optimizing the weight distribution to account for the electric drivetrain will contribute to the overall driving experience. By focusing on these key areas, VW believes they have set a solid foundation for the electric GTI to be even more exciting to drive than its predecessors.
While it’s hard to say for certain without experiencing the car firsthand, Volkswagen’s commitment to creating an electric GTI that surpasses the driving experience of its combustion-powered counterparts is certainly promising. As technology continues to advance, EVs are becoming increasingly capable, challenging the notion that they can’t be as thrilling as traditional internal combustion engines. Only time will tell if the electric GTI lives up to the hype, but VW’s dedication to delivering an exhilarating driving experience should not be underestimated.
So, what do you think? Can an EV GTI truly be more exciting to drive? We’ll have to wait and see. In the meantime, if you have any tips or insights, feel free to send them to tips@thedrive.com.