Volkswagen unveils a new cockpit generation, with the all-new ID. Polo
The new holistic design approach, shaped especially by customer feedback, will define the cockpits of upcoming ID. models. Features include new clarity and quality, and intuitive controls with familiar VW operating patterns adopted and further developed. At the same time, a new software generation brings fresh functions to the ID. Polo. The charm of the 1980s is now present in the vehicle thanks to the retro display: with a single button press, the digital instrument displays transform into screen views reminiscent of the first Golf.
Kai Grünitz, Volkswagen Brand Board Member for Technical Development, says:
“Our new interior architecture, starting with the all-new ID. Polo, elevates the customer experience to a new level: with clean lines, high-quality materials, and an intuitive operating environment with physical buttons and newly structured screens. In addition, from the ID. Polo onwards, our next software generation will deliver noticeably more comfort and functions for our customers. This includes, for example, the third generation of Travel Assist, which will soon recognise red traffic lights and stop signs, as well as comfortable one-pedal-driving.”
Positive atmosphere and high-quality standards. Volkswagen has long delivered quality and comfort standards in the small and compact car classes that are aligned with a higher vehicle class. With the all-new ID. Polo, Volkswagen continues this approach in conjunction with the new ‘Pure Positive’ design language. The cross-class impression is reflected in details such as fabric-covered surfaces on the dashboard and door inserts. The pleasant feel of all surfaces, buttons, controls and handles creates an inviting and friendly atmosphere. Furthermore, Volkswagen’s new cockpit landscape focuses on even more intuitive operation. Key elements include:
- Displays with clear information and tidy menu structures
- More buttons for direct functions
- A multi-function steering wheel with clear button controls
- Adoption of familiar VW operating patterns
Volkswagen Chief Designer Andreas Mindt says: “The all-new ID. Polo is an affordable friend for everyday life. Just as the Polo always was, but now electric.” Mindt continues: “We have created an interior that feels like a friend from the very first contact. Clear physical buttons provide stability and trust, warm materials make it appealing, and charming details such as the new retro views of the instruments show the typical Volkswagen wink. All this makes the ID. Polo a compact car with a big heart – ‘Pure Positive’ in its purest form.”
ID. Polo with clear horizontal orientation of cockpit architecture. Two large displays, arranged along a single line of sight, define the new cockpit architecture. These include the digital cockpit behind the steering wheel, with a screen diagonal of 26 cm (10.25 inches), and the 33-cm (almost 13-inch) touchscreen of the infotainment system, which stands out in its segment due to its size and features. The graphics are high-resolution and precise, and the central display is easily accessible for the front passenger as well. Separate buttons for climate functions and the hazard warning lights are integrated into a strip below the infotainment screen. The multi-function steering wheel is also completely new, featuring clearly structured button fields. Positioned between the smartphone tray and the cup holders is a rotary controller for audio operation, easily accessible for both driver and passenger, allowing volume adjustment as well as track and station selection. The ID.Light has been significantly further developed: this interactive and intuitive light strip now extends not only across the width of the instrument panel at the base of the windscreen, but also into the front doors for the first time.
Retro display – a playful wink. Special, unexpected details designed to create an emotional connection are summarised by the design team under the term ‘Secret Sauce’. In the ID. Polo, this tangible extra is embodied by the retro display: with just one press of a button on the steering wheel or via the infotainment system, the digital cockpit displays transform into classic views from the Golf I of the 1980s.
¹ Near-production concept. The model is not yet available for sale.