Volkswagen brings back physical interior controls with the ID Polo.

Volkswagen has taken the wraps off the interior of the new upcoming electric Polo, which is coming back with physical buttons, something which is very unique in EVs. 

The company revealed the interiors of the hatchback way ahead its launch in the UK this year. Defined as the ID Polo, it is the brand’s first car to be underpinned by new Pure Positive design language specifically crafted by Andreas Mindt, as he knows the importance of physical buttons based on consumer feedback. 

He also added further and said, “The use of physical buttons provides improved practicality and trust.” Other upcoming vehicles in the electric ID portfolio will also be equipped with physical buttons, as confirmed by the manufacturer. 

Many companies have reintroduced physical buttons and one of them is Mercedes Benz as they are planning to bring back physical buttons across their lineup. 

Ferrari is also thinking of striking a perfect balance between digital controls and physical buttons. According to 2026 Euro NCAP crash tests, lack of physical buttons for key functionalities will not receive a full five-star rating under the 2026 Euro NCAP crash tests. 

Volkswagen ID Polo EV Interior

The company provided a glimpse of interiors at the 2023 VW ID 2all concept, where the production car’s cabin has retained the original interiors, with a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display and a 13-inch touchscreen which remains unchanged. 

However, the central screen doesn’t come with the longer slider-type controls for media volumes or climate. These are further attached to a row of tactile buttons, making a more traditional layout. 

There is also an addition of a centre-console rotary dial, which can be easily reachable for both driver as well as passenger, as both can adjust the level of volume and change tracks or radio stations. The new steering wheel houses numerous physical buttons present on each of the two spokes, which includes driver assistance and media functionality. 

1980s Golf Mk1-styled Retro Mode for the Screens

The new Polo Electric offers customisable displays with a retro mode which was earlier standard on a Golf Mk1. This will include analogue driver’s display themes (including number and needle graphics for speedometer and Battery SOC) and iconic tape deck animation for the touchscreen. 

Dimensions: The upcoming ID Polo EV measures 4,053 mm long 1,813 mm wide and 1,530 mm tall as the EV counterpart will be visually larger than its ICE variant sold globally. 

The EV version will also get a flat floor which will further improve the interior space with the EV motor and other crucial mechanicals attached to the front. According to VW, the new car will have a substantial 435-litres of boot space.