Volkswagen Golf R continues to thrive in the electric era.

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【Summary】Volkswagen confirms that the Golf name and high-performance R models will continue in the electric era, with a possible electric Golf R in 2028. The Golf will be based on the new Scalable Systems Platform (SSP). The GTI version of the electric Golf is likely, but the R version will only be available with the SSP platform. This means the end of the GTX models. The future of the ID brand is uncertain, with the possibility of the ID badge disappearing. The ID.

FutureCar Staff Sep 05, 2023 4:22 PM PT

Volkswagen Golf R continues to thrive in the electric era.

Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schafer has confirmed that the Golf name and high-performance R models will continue to exist in Volkswagen's electric era. He stated that an all-electric Golf R could be a possibility in 2028, utilizing the new Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) architecture developed by the Volkswagen Group. Schafer also mentioned that the Golf, Tiguan, and GTI names are definitely being carried into the future, while other names are being considered on a case-by-case basis.

Schafer revealed that the next all-new Golf, following the revised Golf Mk 8.5 in 2024, will be based on the SSP platform, expected to be available in 2028. When asked about the possibility of an R version of the 2028 Golf, Schafer explained that the R model requires the four-wheel drive, which can be better achieved with the SSP platform rather than the upcoming MEB+ platform. He also mentioned that the recently launched GTX models will likely be merged in the long run.

The future of the ID brand is also uncertain. Schafer stated that the ID.3, which recently received a facelift, will likely be replaced by the new Golf EV in 2028. He mentioned that the ID name was necessary to differentiate from ICE vehicles but may not be needed in the future. However, the decision to drop the ID name completely or use individual names is still unclear.

Schafer hinted that the ID.3 name could continue with a different body shape, but it is not yet decided. He also mentioned the debates surrounding the Golf name in relation to the ID. GTI Concept, which was showcased at the Munich Motor Show. The GTI concept, based on the upcoming small ID.2 electric car, is larger than a Polo but not exactly a Golf. Therefore, it will not be called Golf or Polo.

Overall, Volkswagen plans to continue the Golf name and high-performance R models in the electric era, with an all-electric Golf R being a possibility in 2028. The company is also considering the future of the ID brand and the naming of its electric models.