Volkswagen is poised to revolutionise the hot hatch segment with the development of an exhilarating new electric vehicle, the VW ID.2 R, set to surpass its upcoming ID.2 GTI in performance and technological innovation. This high-performance model is expected to feature an advanced in-wheel powertrain that promises to outpace many petrol-powered sports cars on both the road and the track.
According to industry sources cited by Autocar, the ID.2 R will employ a hybrid drivetrain consisting of Volkswagen’s established front-mounted e-motor, coupled with a pair of next-generation electric hub motors integrated into the rear wheels. This novel configuration aims to deliver all-wheel drive capabilities, with the compact in-wheel motors providing superior torque vectoring-far beyond the current tech utilised by the company.
One of the key advantages of this setup is that it maintains the vehicle’s interior space and boot capacity, an important consideration for compact hatchbacks. Volkswagen has reportedly engaged a specialist based in the Balkans-an expert in high-output in-wheel motors-to develop and refine this high-performance tech. The focus extends beyond hardware; software development plays a critical role, enabling precise torque distribution and the integration of brake-based yaw control and active torque vectoring to enhance agility and cornering performance.
The ID.2 R is expected to feature a variety of dynamic drive modes that can alter torque balance-from a front-biased setup to a balanced 50:50 split or even a rear-biased drift mode. Such versatility aims to give the vehicle a playful, rally-inspired character, reminiscent of miniature World Rally Championship cars. This approach also enables the model to compete with the upcoming rear-wheel-drive Renault 5 Turbo 3E, which similarly employs in-hub rear motors.
Power output for the ID.2 R is projected to exceed 300kW, significantly surpassing the 213kW expected in the standard ID.2 GTI. The combination of this power, lightweight construction-including potentially a carbon-fibre roof-and performance-focused aerodynamics such as wider arches, side skirts, a front splitter, rear spoiler, and diffuser will likely produce impressive acceleration figures, with a 0-100 km/h sprint reaching well under four seconds. Top speeds might be capped around 200 km/h, emphasising its Sprinting credentials.
Design-wise, the ID.2 R aims to combine aggressive aesthetics with functional enhancements to ensure stability at high speeds. The model’s technological innovations will also be employed in the forthcoming ID.2 SUV, due in 2027, which will feature similar all-wheel-drive capabilities.
While Volkswagen has not yet confirmed exact timings, the ID.2 R is anticipated to launch sometime after the 2026 release of the ID.2 and the 2027 debut of the ID.2 GTI. Most likely, the high-performance ID.2 R will reach Australian markets in 2028, promising an electrified future for hot hatch enthusiasts.
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