Volkswagen’s compact ID 2 takes shape

Volkswagen has confirmed that its ID 2 compact car remains on course for 2025 delivery. It promises to be as roomy as a Golf for around Polo money. Stated range is 450km (for the top variant) while it has 166kW of power, just below that of a Golf GTI.

The interior of the ID 2all concept sees the return of physical buttons, a forerunner for future VW interiors. Evidently customers complained about the touchscreen-heavy controls of Golf VIII and ID.3. Much of the infotainment screen will be controlled by a central rotating iDrive-like device. The new interior has a row of physical backlit buttons for the climate control. 

VW is looking to phase out hard plastics, glue, leather and chrome too. So almost every surface in the ID 2all is soft to the touch, mixing Alcantara and other fabrics as part of a sustainability push. Some wood and metal trim is used sparingly.

The design chief, Andreas Mindt, told Autocar UK that design work was now finished and he reckons it looks even better than the concept ID.2all version.

The price is anticipated to be around the 25,000 Euro mark (just over 20,000 pounds UK). It will debut later this year with sales beginning in 2025. 

The ID 2 will be the first model to use the MEB Entry FWD platform. The move to front-wheel drive is all about maximising cabin and luggage space.

A GTI variant is due to follow in 2026, taking cues from the ID GTI concept of 2023. Before that, however, a crossover model, the ID 2X, will be released in 2025.

The ID 2all concept measures 4050mm long, so is shorter than the Polo. However, its 2600mm wheelbase is significantly longer, meaning more interior space. It features a 490L boot, with 1330 litres of capacity after split folding.

The ID 2all showcases a new design language that will feature on all of the firm’s future EVs. Volkswagen boss, Thomas Schäfer, said the designs will “make Volkswagen a genuine love brand”.

ID 2 incorporates Polo and Golf cues, with more traditional styling than the ID 3. The C-pillar design, for example, reminds of that in the Mk1 Golf. A new front end suggests the car is smiling.

Two battery sizes will be offered – 38kWh and 56kWh – each of which uses different cell technology, the base model employing lithium-ion-phosphate. The 450km range is for the 56kWh unit.

A 10-80 per cent charge will take around 20 minutes for the 58kWh battery pack. Top speed is 160km/h while 0-100 takes under 7.0sec.

Spec levels will be high, despite a low overall cost. Included are adaptive cruise, self parking, LED matrix headlights, massaging electric seats and a panoramic sunroof.

Production will take place in Spain, alongside the closely related Cupra and Skoda models.