See all Motoring NewsOver the past number of decades, it only took three little letters to make most car enthusiasts heart skip a beat. The acronym GTI, which originally stood for 'Grand Touring Injection' has become synonymous with hot hatchbacks made by Volkswagen.
For most people it was probably a long time coming, but Volkswagen is now catapulting that GTI DNA into the age of electric mobility with the new ID.GTI Concept.
The world premiere of this electrifying concept vehicle will take place during this year’s IAA Mobility in Munich (5-9 September, 2023) – exactly 48 years after the worldwide debut of the first Golf GTI at the IAA in Frankfurt.
The ID. GTI Concept is based on the ID. 2all which was unveiled in March – a future electric compact car which has generated worldwide attention. Its front-wheel drive, clear design and powerful proportions make it the perfect starting point for a new GTI. Volkswagen Head of Design Andreas Mindt already also had the sporty derivative in mind when he produced the first sketches for the ID. 2all. And just like the ID. 2all, the ID. GTI Concept is more than just a show car – it is the first glimpse of the exciting GTI future because its series development has already been decided.
Speaking ahead of the unveiling of the ID. GTI Concept, Alan Bateson, Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland, welcomed the announcement of the first all-electric GTI. “GTI is probably the most iconic three-letter combination in the automotive lexicon. Dating back to the first Golf GTI from 1976, it has become a byword for sportiness and everyday usability,” he said “Adding a GTI badge to our electric vehicles is a historic moment as well as a statement of intent. Expectations will be sky high because the GTI name is reserved for a select handful of sporty, emotional and engaging vehicles. Thankfully, Andreas Mindt and his design team have done a fantastic job bringing the electric age GTI to life.”