Volkswagen presented a teaser photo of its next-generation Golf compact hatch earlier this week to staff at the sprawling plant in the automaker's hometown of Wolfsburg, Germany, where the car is expected to enter production around 2028. The photo shows the electric version, tipped to be called the ID. Golf; gas and hybrid versions are planned too, however.VolkswagenThe single teaser photo, since released to the public by Germany's IG Metall trade union, only shows a shadowy silhouette of the car, and a stylized one at that. However, it does provide some clues, namely that the Mk9 Golf looks set to return to the more bluff design of earlier generations, particularly at the rear, which could be aimed at improving aerodynamic efficiency – crucial for EV range. It also appears that the wheel arches will be more pronounced, similar to those on the Mk4. Potentially Separate Platforms For Electric, ICE Versions Volkswagen Volkswagen has already confirmed that the electric Golf will use the automaker's highly modular SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) vehicle architecture, designed to streamline battery cells and software systems across the automaker's brands. VW has said the platform, in its various forms, will eventually underpin around 80% of the EVs across the automaker's portfolio.The SSP platform was originally due to spawn its first model this year, the much-hyped Project Trinity technological flagship. However, that model was put on the shelf a couple of years ago due to software development delays and a need to focus on more profitable models. Those delays ended up pushing the SSP platform's rollout to 2028, along with a deal brokered with Rivian in late 2024 to help develop the zonal electronic architecture for the platform. The system reduces the numerous control modules found in most modern cars by grouping functions together, helping cut wiring and simplify software integration.VolkswagenThe SSP platform has been developed purely for electric powertrains, with the option for a gas range extender. VW originally planned for the Golf to become a fully electric vehicle, but the slowing adoption rate for EVs has since persuaded the automaker to also offer gas and hybrid options, particularly for sporty variants like the Golf GTI and Golf R. These are expected to use a heavily updated version of the MQB modular platform that debuted last decade in the Mk7 Golf. First Comes The ID. Polo Volkswagen Before we get a new Golf, VW will launch a new generation of the subcompact Polo hatchback, a model that, like previous generations, will probably prove too small for US tastes. It is due later this year as the ID. Polo, and will include a sporty ID. Polo GTI version. Unlike the Golf, a gas-powered version of the new Polo isn’t planned, though the current Polo is expected to remain on sale, possibly with some updates.An even smaller EV, the so-called ID.1 (or possibly ID. up!), is also planned for 2027 as the successor to the former e-up! minicar. Both that model and the ID. Polo will use an updated version of VW’s current MEB dedicated EV platform.VolkswagenThe upcoming ID. Polo likely offers a first glimpse of the design direction for the ID. Golf, as both cars are expected to follow a similar language overseen by VW’s new design director, Andreas Mindt, who also designed the Mk7 Golf. That philosophy should extend to the interior as well, with VW planning a return to physical controls for frequently used functions after criticism of the touchscreen and haptic sliders in recent models like the current Golf and Tiguan. The new, more tactile interior has already been previewed for the ID. Polo.Sources: Volkswagen