Volkswagen’s New Naming Strategy: Meet the ID. Polo

Volkswagen Introduces New Naming Strategy: The ID. Polo Marks a Fresh Era

Volkswagen is preparing to reshape the way customers connect with its cars. The German automaker has announced a bold new naming strategy that will carry some of its most iconic model names into the all-electric future.

The concept car known as the ID. 2all will officially enter production in 2026 as the ID. Polo, reviving one of Volkswagen’s best-loved nameplates in a fully electric form. The move signals the start of a wider plan to merge familiarity with innovation, making the transition to electric mobility more seamless for buyers.

Why Names Still Matter

Volkswagen’s CEO, Thomas Schäfer, explained the thinking behind the strategy:

“Our model names are firmly anchored in people’s minds. They stand for a strong brand and embody characteristics such as quality, timeless design and technologies for all. That’s why we’re moving our well-known names into the future. The ID. Polo is just the beginning.”

By keeping names like Polo and GTI alive, Volkswagen aims to preserve the emotional connection drivers already have with its vehicles. The ID. Polo, for instance, will celebrate the Polo’s 50th anniversary, reminding customers that while the car is electric, its heritage of reliability and accessibility continues.

Enter the ID. Polo GTI

Alongside the standard ID. Polo, Volkswagen will also launch the ID. Polo GTI, bringing the beloved hot-hatch spirit into the electric age. Due in 2026, this performance-oriented EV promises thrilling dynamics, everyday usability, and plenty of driving pleasure.

Martin Sander, Volkswagen’s Head of Sales, Marketing, and Aftersales, emphasized the power of naming:

“A model like the Polo shows just how powerful a name can be: it stands for reliability, personality and history. That’s precisely why we are again giving our ID. models names that arouse emotions and are anchored in people’s everyday lives.”

Expanding the ID. Family

The shift doesn’t stop with the Polo. Volkswagen also confirmed plans for a new ID. Cross, a compact electric SUV based on the ID. CROSS Concept. Expected to launch by the end of 2026, it will serve as the EV counterpart to the popular T-Cross, offering practicality with zero emissions.

With models like the ID. Polo and ID. Cross, Volkswagen is doubling down on affordability, everyday usability, and customer-focused design. Buyers can expect higher-quality interiors, more intuitive controls, and a mix of digital and physical buttons — a clear response to feedback from current owners.

The Bigger Picture

Since 2018, Volkswagen’s ID. family has grown rapidly, with models like the ID.3, ID.4, and the flagship ID.7 making strong impressions in Europe. The new naming strategy builds on this success, helping customers navigate the lineup while keeping the DNA of beloved models alive.

For many, the ID. Polo represents more than just a new electric car. It’s a symbol of continuity — the assurance that while mobility is changing, Volkswagen’s commitment to reliability, design, and everyday accessibility remains the same.

As electric mobility gains momentum in the UAE, the introduction of familiar names like the Polo and GTI into Volkswagen’s ID. family could make EV adoption even easier. For those searching for quality used cars in Dubai, including Volkswagen models, visit Auto Trader UAE to explore a wide selection and find the right car for your lifestyle.