Electric cars are generally thought to be safe, reliable, and perhaps a little dull. However, Volkswagen may look to change that perception going forward. The company is reportedly developing a performance version of its next ID.2, dubbed the ID.2 R -- and if initial reports are to be believed it may be good for upwards of 400 horsepower, and be a bona fide Golf R successor in the electric age.
For car nerds alike, this isn't just news to be excited about - it's a truly transformative moment in the perception of affordable EVs in the United States - not just efficient but FUN to drive.
A 400-HP Electric Pocket Rocket? Count Us In
Let's breakdown the details. According to reports, Volkswagen is attempting to test out a tri-motor layout, having the capability of:
- One motor in the front
- Two rear motors provided torque-vectoring
- Total output of an estimated 400 hp
It does not just increase acceleration - that layout allows for agility and confidence through corners. The kind of layout you would typically expect from a Porsche Taycan or an Audi RS e-tron GT, and not a mini hatchback.
Just think about the experience of leaving a tight curve with immediate ability to grip, or merging onto the highway and reaching 60-catch 60 in less than 4 seconds -- all without a turbo.
It’s Gunning for the Golf R… and Then Some
Volkswagen is not taking any chances here. VW's long-established high-performance flagship for hatchbacks has long been the Golf R and now the ID.2 R appears to take it further with more.
- More power than the Golf R (328 hp)
- Better handling (independent rear motors)
- Zero emissions (clean and mean)
If VW gets the driving dynamics right, the ID.2 R could be the first EV to win over the hearts of traditional hot hatch enthusiasts in the states.
Yes, the Standard ID.2 is Also Coming
If 400 hp sounds like overkill, you can relax. The regular VW ID.2 is indeed also coming and at a more appealing price point aimed squarely at the budget buyers. The ID.2 is currently being tested (spy shots from the Alps) and looks to have:
- A practical hatchback shape (Polo-esque)
- An affordable price point ($27K-$30K with incentives)
- Real-world EV range for a city or suburban lifestyle
VW has promised that it will be Golf sized for space, but Polo priced; perfect for young drivers, small families, or commuters.
What Makes This Exciting for America
Let's be honest, there are not many fun, small EV's in America right now. Most electric cars here are either crossovers or sedans. The ID.2 R could be:
- Small but fierce — ideal for urban roads
- Affordable speed — fast cars for less than $70K
- Fun to drive — unlike many "numb" EV's
If VW brings this to North America, it could put several stakes in the ground to make EV adoption more appealing for younger buyers who want style and speed with environmental responsibility.
VW ID.2 R (Rumored) Specifications
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Conclusion
Although the rumored ID.2 R from Volkswagen is seemingly just another electric hatchback, it might just be a statement that is saying affordable EV's can be fun, fast, and have emotional value too! With possible power ratings of 400 hp and technology like tri-motor torque vectoring, it will be a legitimate rival and competitor to the Golf R but cleaner and futuristic. While the ID.2 R remains unconfirmed, the hype is real—and if VW can pull off something half as good as the hype suggests, this might be the electric hot hatch America has been waiting for. The EV game about to get exciting.
Source(Image / Thumbnail): carscoops
