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Volkswagen has unveiled the interior for its upcoming ID. Polo, marking a shift in the brand’s electric vehicle design strategy.
The redesign follows feedback regarding the digital interfaces used in previous ID. models. The manufacturer has confirmed the reintroduction of physical buttons and tactile controls for key functions.
Two high-resolution displays are positioned along a horizontal line of sight to provide vehicle data and media information.
A 10.25-inchdigital instrument cluster is located directly behind the steering wheel.
The infotainment system features a 13-inch touchscreen, currently the largest in the compact segment.
Physical buttons for climate control and hazard lights are integrated into a dedicated strip below the central screen.
The steering wheel has been redesigned with structured physical button fields instead of touch-sensitive panels.
A rotary controller is positioned on the centre console between the cup holders. This dial allows the driver and front passenger to adjust audio volume and select media tracks.
A "retro display" mode allows the digital instruments to show graphics inspired by the 1980s Golf. This feature is activated via a button on the steering wheel or through the infotainment menu.
The interactive ID.Light strip now extends across the dashboard and into the front door trims.
The vehicle will debut a new software generation that introduces updated driver assistance features. The third generation of Travel Assist is designed to recognise red traffic lights and stop signs. The system also supports one-pedal driving and advanced parking assistants.
This interior architecture is intended to serve as the blueprint for all future ID. models.
The ID. Polo is built on the MEB+ platform and offers two battery sizes: 37kWh and 54kWh. The 54kWh battery pack is expected to provide a driving range of approximately 450km.
DC fast-charging of up to 130kW allows for a 10–80 per cent top-up in 23 minutes.
The vehicle measures 4,053 mm in length, which is a similar footprint to the current petrol-powered Polo.
A performance-focused GTI variant is confirmed for 2026, featuring a 169kW front-wheel-drive powertrain.
Details regarding an Australian launch for the ID. Polo are not known at this time.
FAQ
Does the ID. Polo have physical buttons?
Yes, Volkswagen has moved away from haptic sliders in favour of physical buttons on the steering wheel, a dedicated climate control strip, and a rotary volume dial on the centre console.
How large are the screens in the new cockpit?
The ID. Polo features a 26.0 cm (10.25-inch) digital driver display and a large 33 cm (13-inch) central infotainment touchscreen.
What is the "Retro Display" mode?
It is a software feature that transforms the digital instrument cluster into a visual layout that mimics the analogue gauges of the 1980s Volkswagen Golf I.
What is the driving range of the ID. Polo?
While official figures depend on final testing, the larger 54kWh battery is expected to offer a driving range of up to 450km.
What new safety tech is included?
The ID. Polo debuts the third generation of Travel Assist, which is capable of recognising stop signs and red traffic lights to assist the driver.
Will there be a performance version?
Yes, a GTI variant has been confirmed for a 2026 release, expected to produce approximately 169kW through a front-wheel-drive system.
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