Volkswagen Golf R continues as flagship in the electric era

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【Summary】Volkswagen will continue the Golf name and high-performance R models in the electric era, potentially releasing an all-electric Golf R in 2028. The Golf will be built on the new Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) architecture, with the next-generation Golf expected to debut in 2028. The GTI and R versions will likely be available, with the R version requiring the SSP platform for its four-wheel drive capability. The ID brand may also undergo changes, with the ID.

FutureCar Staff Sep 05, 2023 6:16 AM PT

Volkswagen Golf R continues as flagship in the electric era

Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schafer has confirmed that the Golf name and high-performance R models will continue to be a part of Volkswagen's electric era. He mentioned that an all-electric Golf R could be a possibility in 2028, utilizing the advanced SSP architecture of the Volkswagen Group. Schafer also stated that the iconic names of Golf, Tiguan, and GTI are definite and will be carried into the future.

According to Schafer, the Golf will likely be placed directly on the Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). After a revised Golf Mk 8.5 in 2024, the next all-new Golf is expected to be on the new platform, which is estimated to be available in 2028. Schafer also mentioned the possibility of an R version of the 2028 Golf, as the R models require four-wheel drive and the SSP platform can provide the necessary capabilities.

The introduction of the SSP platform would mean the end of the recently launched GTX models, as they were just an interim solution for the battery electric vehicles. Schafer stated that the ID brand's name could also come under threat when the ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) line-ups merge by 2033. However, the ID.3 model is expected to be replaced by the new Golf EV in 2028.

Schafer hinted that the ID.3 name could still be used for a different model in the future. He also mentioned that the debate over the Golf name extended to the ID. GTI Concept, which was revealed at the Munich Motor Show. Schafer explained that the GTI Concept, based on the forthcoming small ID.2 electric car, couldn't be called Golf because it didn't fully resemble a Golf in terms of shape and size. Similarly, it couldn't be called Polo because it was larger and had a higher price point than the Polo model.

In conclusion, Volkswagen plans to continue the Golf name and high-performance R models in their electric era. The Golf will likely be placed on the Scalable Systems Platform, and an all-electric Golf R could be introduced in 2028. The future of the ID brand's name is uncertain, but the ID.3 model is expected to be replaced by the new Golf EV. The GTI Concept, based on the ID.2 electric car, couldn't be called Golf or Polo due to its unique characteristics.