2023 Volkswagen ID.3: A Drive to Remember

author: FutureCar Staff    

Volkswagen's electric revolution began with the introduction of the ID.3, the first purely electric model from the company. This model has become a top seller in the UK, representing the third generation of Volkswagen vehicles following the Beetle and the Golf. The ID.3 is designed to be affordable and practical, catering to the mass market.

The new version of the VW ID.3, released in 2023, features some updates to the interior and improvements in quality. While it offers a good range and faster charging, it is considered expensive for what it offers. Pros of the ID.3 include its attractive design, practical size for city driving, and good battery economy. However, there are few changes from the previous model, and the interior tech can still be a bit difficult to navigate.

In terms of exterior changes, the new ID.3 has a sportier nose with improved airflow and cooling features. The removal of the black bar under the windscreen gives the front of the car a more appealing appearance. The model badging and decals have been removed from the side of the car, resulting in cleaner lines. Overall, the ID.3 maintains its sleek aesthetic while introducing some minor updates.

The interior of the ID.3 has seen improvements in quality, with more soft-touch finishes and stitching. However, the car still features a significant amount of hard plastic in the center console and door panels. The doors now have softer materials for increased comfort, but there are still glossy plastic inlays in areas prone to fingerprints. The ID.3 offers plenty of space, thanks to the battery placement in the floor, and has a roomy rear and a decent amount of boot space.

The ID.3's infotainment system includes a 10-inch display and a smaller driver display. The user interface has been improved, but it still falls short compared to smartphone-based systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system requires multiple clicks to navigate, and the buttons under the display are not frequently used. The ID.3 also features a heads-up display, which provides useful information without the need to look away from the road.

There are two battery options for the ID.3: a smaller 58kWh battery and a larger 77kWh battery. The larger battery offers a range of 347 miles and delivers a nippy driving experience. The new model also supports faster charging, up to 170kW. The ID.3 is comfortable to drive, especially on well-surfaced twisting roads, and is efficient for urban driving. The price of the ID.3 has increased, making it relatively expensive compared to similar models on the market.

In conclusion, the VW ID.3 is an important car for Volkswagen in its quest to dominate the electric vehicle segment. While the new model offers some improvements, it retains the same overall driving experience. The introduction of a heads-up display and faster charging rate are attractive features, but the rising price may make it less competitive compared to other options.

FutureCar Staff