VW Golf 9 will allegedly be all-electric, R and GTI models will live on

The VW Golf mk9 is set to be a fully electric vehicle, continuing the legacy of Volkswagen's highly popular Golf series. The next-generation Golf will be the brand's inaugural model built on its new SSP platform, replacing the eighth-generation combustion-engine hatchback.

Though the ID.3 is currently considered the electric counterpart to the Golf, it appears that it will be succeeded by the all-electric ninth-generation Golf, marking the gradual retirement of the MEB electric platform. The SSP platform, which represents VW's next phase in electric-only platforms, has the potential to elevate the Golf 9 into one of the most tech-savvy hatchbacks in the mainstream market.

Originally delayed due to software-related setbacks, the SSP platform is slated to initially debut in higher-end Audi and Porsche models. According to Autocar, this platform won't be integrated into the Golf 9 and other VW-branded vehicles until around 2028.

Equipped with an 800v architecture and newly developed VW batteries, vehicles based on the SSP platform can achieve a 10 to 80 percent charge in approximately 12 minutes. The platform is also being engineered with autonomous driving and other connected technologies in mind.

One key aspect for prospective buyers is that the SSP platform is being developed with affordability as a priority. Consequently, the price tag for the all-electric Golf 9 is expected to be more in line with its eighth-generation predecessor than with the electric ID.3.

The SSP platform has an added perk: it's also being developed for use in Porsche and Audi vehicles, implying enhanced speed capabilities. Thomas Schäfer, the head of VW brand, indicated that VW's future will be fully electric and will continue to feature GTI and R models. 

“You need models that are exciting. R has always been our exciting place. We’ve spent a lot of time and money to get that brand, and we’re not going to give that up,” Schäfer told Autocar. “But we’re only going to call it R if it’s an R in terms of performance, in terms of all-wheel-drive.”

The GTX label is expected to be discontinued as the iconic GTI and R badges make their way into the electric realm. Like their combustion-engine predecessors, GTI is expected to be used for two-wheel-drive variants, while the R badge will be associated with all-wheel-drive configurations.

Source: Autocar