Volkswagen has officially revealed the interior of the all-new ID. Polo, ahead of the small electric car’s debut later this year. This new cabin setup is bringing back physical buttons, premium materials, and simpler controls in response to criticism of earlier Volkswagen ID models.
According to Volkswagen, the interior has been “systematically optimised based on customer feedback”, addressing complaints aimed at models like the Volkswagen ID.3.
Volkswagen ID. Polo pricing and availability
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In Europe, the pricing of the Volkswagen ID. Polo is expected to start at around €25,000 (approx. A$44,000), roughly €5,000 more than the petrol Polo. Volkswagen has confirmed the petrol-powered Polo will continue alongside the ID. Polo for the foreseeable future.
Physical buttons return after customer feedback
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One of the biggest changes inside the Volkswagen ID. Polo is the move away from capacitive touch controls as fitted in previous ID. models. This transition was already underway with updated combustion engine models, following extensive criticism from buyers and industry experts. Volkswagen says the cabin of the ID. Polo previews the new look for all future ID. models with a focus on intuitive operation.
Key tactile controls include:
- New two-spoke, squared-off steering wheel design
- Up to 11 physical buttons per spoke
- Separate controls for cruise control, volume, and driver assistance
- Dedicated buttons for instrument display, voice control, steering wheel heating, and track skipping
Volkswagen says the layout improves usability while driving and restores confidence in everyday controls.
Climate controls get dedicated physical switches
Despite being touchscreen-based, the Volkswagen ID. Polo avoids burying climate controls deep in menus.
Cabin control layout includes:
- Climate display integrated into the infotainment screen
- Physical switches below the air vents for:
- Temperature
- Fan speed
- Air conditioning
- Air recirculation
- Front and rear demisters
A rotary volume dial sits between the wireless phone charger and cupholders for quick audio control.
Large displays with retro digital themes
The Volkswagen ID. Polo features a new cockpit layout that combines modern screens with nostalgic design elements. It features sleek floating displays – a 10.25-inch screen for the digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch display for the central infotainment touchscreen.
Retro-themed display
- As a special treat in the ID. Polo, Volkswagen offers retro-styled views for both the digital cluster and infotainment system as inspired by the original Volkswagen Golf. Key highlights include:
Digital versions of the classic instrument dials, with power-usage replacing the tachometer. - Classic odometer readout moved to the central display.
- Media playback gets a cassette-theme
These optional retro views can be activated via the steering controls or the touchscreen menus.
Fabric dashboard and premium cabin materials
Volkswagen is reclaiming its reputation for high-quality interiors, even in smaller cars.
Interior material highlights:
- Fabric-covered dashboard and door cards
- Soft-touch knee rests and lower dash panels
- Black mesh fabric on the upper dashboard
- Light grey fabric seats in the revealed model
Volkswagen says this new look reflects its ‘Pure Positive’ design language, aimed at creating a warm and welcoming cabin.
New technology and comfort features
The Volkswagen ID. Polo debuts Volkswagen’s next-generation software, introducing new comfort and driver-assistance features.
Technology upgrades include:
- One-pedal driving
- Advanced parking assistance
- Optional new-generation Travel Assist
- Traffic light and stop sign recognition
- Expanded ID.Light system across the dash and into the doors
Volkswagen ID. Polo platform, size and performance
The Volkswagen ID. Polo is built on Volkswagen’s front-wheel-drive MEB+ platform and measures 4053mm in length, similar to the petrol-powered Volkswagen ID. Polo.
Key specifications include the following:
| Battery option | Entry battery | Larger battery |
| Battery capacity | 37kWh | 52kWh |
| Motor output | 85kW or 99kW | 155kW standard / 166kW GTI |
| DC fast charging | Up to 90kW | Up to 130kW |
Key takeaways for buyers
Put simply, with the Volkswagen ID. Polo, the brand is getting back to basics, which is good news for buyers. Physical buttons are back, controls make sense again, and you no longer need to dig through menus to change the temperature and volume.
For everyday drivers, the choice of battery and motor options means the Volkswagen ID. Polo can suit different needs, from easy city commuting to something a bit quicker and more fun. The softer materials and retro touches also help it feel less like a gadget and more like a car you’ll actually enjoy spending time in.
Overall, the Volkswagen ID. Polo looks set to be an electric hatch that’s easier to live with, more familiar to drive, and far less frustrating than some earlier EVs. But the big question – is it too late to the party? Or can premium experiences with long-standing monikers overcome the sheer value-for-money packages offered from Chinese EVs? Guess we’ll have to wait and see the sales figures.
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