A MAJOR car brand is set to launch an electric version of one of its most popular models next year – and it’s tipped to be even faster than the current flagship.
Volkswagen is reportedly preparing to unveil an electric GTI hot hatch, based on its ID.3 model, with a launch expected in 2026, according to Motor1.com.
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This comes after the German manufacturer first stepped into the electric hot hatch space last year with the ID.3 GTX.
The new ID.3 GTI will carry the legendary GTI badge, though it won’t have the fuel injectors that gave the original its name.
And unlike traditional GTIs, which have front-wheel drive, this electric version will reportedly be rear-wheel drive.
According to Auto Motor and Sport, the ID.3 GTI will deliver around 335hp, that’s 13hp more than the current GTX model.
VW is also said to be working on major upgrades to the chassis, steering, and suspension to give drivers a more exciting and responsive experience behind the wheel.
Interestingly, the electric GTI wasn’t part of Volkswagen’s original plan.
But with delays to the next-generation electric Golf, now expected near the end of the decade, the carmaker is opting for a second facelift of the ID.3 to extend its life on the market.
This update is set to bring the ID.3’s design and technology closer to the upcoming ID.2 range.
The ID.3 first launched in 2019 and saw a refresh in 2023.
With the latest facelift, expected in 2026, the ID.3 GTI will take centre stage as VW’s new electric performance star.
VW has already shown off the ID. GTI concept, which previews the company’s first electric car to wear the iconic badge.
However, the larger ID.3 GTI now looks likely to beat it to showrooms.
Pricing details are still under wraps, but in Germany, the current ID.3 GTX starts at just over €47,000, while the upcoming ID.2 will launch from around €25,000.
Naturally, the GTI versions will carry a premium.
Several other VW electric models have already received the GTX badge, including the ID.7 saloon, ID.7 Tourer estate, and even the ID.Buzz GTX minivan.
It’s still unclear whether Volkswagen plans to eventually replace GTX with the more recognisable GTI name across its electric range.
There’s also speculation that an electric R-badged model could follow.
And with rumours that VW may redesign the GTI logo to feature a lightning bolt in place of the “I,” the brand’s electric future is certainly shaping up to be electrifying.
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