Volkswagen has confirmed a major shift in its Volkswagen ID Polo Interior design philosophy with the unveiling of the upcoming ID Polo electric hatchback. Departing from the touch-heavy layouts seen in recent electric vehicles, the German carmaker has brought back physical buttons for key functions, citing direct customer feedback as the driving force behind the move.
The ID Polo will be the first model to adopt Volkswagen’s new “Pure Positive” design language under chief designer Andreas Mindt. The electric hatchback is scheduled to launch in the UK later this year and will serve as the entry point to Volkswagen’s global ID electric vehicle line-up.
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Physical controls return after customer feedback
According to Volkswagen, owners and test customers consistently highlighted the lack of tactile controls as a usability issue in modern EVs. Speaking about the design direction, Andreas Mindt said clear physical buttons provide “stability and trust” while driving, particularly for frequently used functions.
Volkswagen has also confirmed that this approach will not be limited to the ID Polo. All future ID electric models will feature physical buttons for core controls, including climate settings and steering-mounted functions.
This move follows similar announcements from other premium brands. Mercedes-Benz has already confirmed the reintroduction of physical buttons across its line-up, while Ferrari has stated it will reduce over-reliance on touch-only interfaces in future models.
Interior layout: familiar screens, improved usability
The Volkswagen ID Polo Interior cabin layout is largely carried over from the ID 2all concept showcased in 2023. It continues to feature a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 13-inch central touchscreen. However, the biggest change is what sits below the screen.
Volkswagen has removed the touch-sensitive sliders for media volume and climate control that were integrated into earlier ID models. In their place is a dedicated row of physical buttons, restoring a more conventional and intuitive layout.
A rotary dial mounted on the centre console allows drivers and passengers to control volume and switch audio sources without interacting with the touchscreen. The redesigned steering wheel also features multiple physical buttons across both spokes, covering media, driver assistance systems and other frequently used functions.
Retro-inspired display mode adds character
Adding a nostalgic touch, the ID Polo will offer a retro display mode inspired by the classic Volkswagen Golf Mk1. This optional setting transforms the digital instrument cluster into an analogue-style layout with needle graphics for speed and battery charge.
The central touchscreen can also display a simulated cassette tape animation for audio playback, a design element aimed at blending modern EV technology with Volkswagen’s heritage.
Dimensions and practicality
Dimensionally, the electric Polo is slightly larger than its combustion-engine counterpart sold in international markets. It measures 4,053mm in length, 1,816mm in width and 1,530mm in height.
Despite being an EV, Volkswagen has positioned key mechanical components at the front, resulting in a flat floor and improved cabin space. The ID Polo is claimed to offer a 435-litre boot, which is notable for a hatchback in this segment.
Why this matters for buyers
The return of physical buttons addresses growing concerns around driver distraction and usability in modern vehicles. It also aligns with upcoming Euro NCAP safety norms, under which cars lacking physical controls for key functions may struggle to achieve a full five-star rating from 2026 onwards.
While the ID Polo is not yet confirmed for India, Volkswagen’s shift signals a broader industry trend that could influence interior design across both electric and conventional cars sold in the country.
What lies ahead
With the Volkswagen ID Polo Interior, setting the template, Volkswagen’s future EVs are expected to strike a better balance between digital interfaces and tactile controls. For buyers, this change prioritises ease of use without sacrificing modern technology.
The ID Polo’s official market launch later this year will provide the first real-world look at how this revised approach performs outside concept showcases.
Disclaimer: Interior features and specifications mentioned are based on global model details and official statements. Final India-spec versions may differ.
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Raj Prajapati is a senior automobile journalist at AutoIndia24, reporting on car, bike, EV, and auto industry developments in India.
