All-new Volkswagen ID. Polo detailed: BYD Dolphin and MG4 fighter’s EV powertrains confirmed
Fresh details of the all-new 2026 Volkswagen ID. Polo have been released ahead of the small all-electric hatchback’s debut in 2026.
VW has now confirmed the BYD Dolphin and MG4 fighter is set to come with the choice of two batteries and four powertrains, including a fast GTI.
The other big news is the VW ID. Polo rides on the car giant’s latest upgraded MEB+ architecture that has been tailored for the brand’s most affordable electric cars.
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When it arrives, all ID. Polo hatchbacks will be based on the ID.3’s MEB platform that has been comprehensively re-engineered to be lighter and less complex while delivering significantly improved levels of efficiency.
In Europe a total of four powertrains will be available. Entry versions powered by a small 37kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) that is combined with either an 85kW or 99kW e-motor that drives the front wheels.
A larger 52kWh battery is also an option that uses nickel manganese cobalt chemistry and is combined with either a 155kW e-motor or a 166kW output if you opt for the sportiest GTI.
The range for the bigger power pack is said to be up to 450km, with charging capped at around 130kW using a DC fast charger.
That’s a significant improvement on the measly 90kW the small battery is charged at.
In the flesh, the ID. Polo is 4053mm long, 27mm shorter than the current petrol-powered hatch.
However, the new VW EV is 1816mm wide (+65mm), and stands 1530mm tall (+80mm), with a stretched 2600mm wheelbase for the benefit of occupants.
There’s even a much larger boot (435L v 351L).
While cheaper to produce, the VW MEB+ platform introduces yet more autonomous driving aids.
These includes the VW’s upgraded Travel Assist adaptive cruise control that’s now capable of auto lane changes and traffic light and stop sign recognition.
In Europe, the ID. Polo is priced from €25,000 ($44,000). It commands a €5000 ($8800) price premium over the current combustion version that will go updated and sold alongside the small EV.
The new Volkswagen ID. Polo will be built in Martorell in Spain alongside the Cupra Raval EV that was developed alongside the new VW.
Later on, the same platform will provide the building block for the smaller ID.1 hatch, the ID. Cross small SUV and a further two SUVs and two sedans that will all be aimed for Chinese buyers.
All up, the German brand is launching six new EVs in 2026 alone.
