2023 Volkswagen ID.3 takes the wheel

author: FutureCar Staff    

Volkswagen's electric revolution began with the introduction of the ID.3, the company's first fully electric model. Replacing the e-Golf, the ID.3 has become a top seller in the UK. The name "ID.3" represents the third generation of Volkswagen vehicles, following the Beetle and the Golf.

The ID.3 is designed to be a mass-market car, affordable yet practical. While this size of car is popular in Europe, it may not be as common in North America where larger vehicles are preferred. The ID.3 is built on Volkswagen Group's MEB platform and is the first model in this new lineup to receive a mid-life refresh.

The updated ID.3 (2023) doesn't bring major changes, but it does improve the interior quality and finishes. It continues to be a popular choice due to its range and faster charging capabilities, although some may find it expensive for what it offers. The pros of the ID.3 include its great appearance, practical size ideal for city driving, and good battery economy. On the other hand, the cons include limited changes from the previous model and a slightly fiddly interior tech.

The previous version of the ID.3 was launched in 2020 with a radical redesign both inside and out. The new ID.3, however, is more of a facelift rather than a complete overhaul. There are some noticeable exterior changes, such as sportier openings for airflow and the removal of the black bar under the windscreen, resulting in a sleeker and more appealing front design. The model badging and decals have also been removed, giving the car cleaner lines overall.

The interior of the ID.3 has received a quality boost. Volkswagen has focused on improving the finishes and increasing the amount of soft-touch materials. However, the overall layout remains the same, with some areas still featuring harder plastics. The ID.3 offers plenty of space, thanks to the battery being placed in the floor, allowing for a roomy interior and ample rear legroom. The car also features 385 liters of boot space.

The ID.3's infotainment system has seen improvements, but it still falls short compared to smartphone-based systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The user interface can be a bit clunky, requiring multiple clicks to navigate. The smaller driver display and the placement of the drive selector behind the steering wheel may not be to everyone's liking. However, the addition of a heads-up display provides useful information without taking your eyes off the road.

The ID.3 offers two battery options: a smaller 58kWh battery and a larger 77kWh battery. The larger battery provides a range of 347 miles according to VW's figures. The ID.3 is equipped with a single motor driving the rear wheels, delivering a 0-62mph time of 7.2 seconds. The car feels nippy and responsive, especially in the 0-30mph range. The new model also supports faster charging, with a charging rate of up to 170kW.

Overall, the VW ID.3 is a significant car for Volkswagen as it aims to dominate the mass-market electric vehicle segment. While the new model doesn't bring major changes, it offers a familiar and enjoyable driving experience, with improved interior quality and faster charging. However, the rising price may make some potential buyers consider other options in the market.

FutureCar Staff