2023 Volkswagen ID.3 test drive

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【Summary】The 2023 Volkswagen ID.3 has received a mid-life refresh, with minor exterior changes and improvements to the interior quality. The electric car offers a practical size, good battery economy, and a range of up to 347 miles. However, the interior tech, including the user interface, still has some flaws. The ID.3 is a comfortable and enjoyable car to drive, but it is considered relatively expensive compared to its competitors.

FutureCar Staff Aug 22, 2023 9:44 AM PT

Volkswagen's electric revolution began with the ID.3, the company's first purely electric model. It has become a top seller in the UK, following in the footsteps of its predecessors, the Beetle and the Golf. The ID.3 is designed for the mass market, offering an affordable and practical option.

The 2023 VW ID.3 doesn't bring major changes, but it does improve the interior quality and finishes. It offers a good range and faster charging, making it a popular choice. However, some may find it expensive for what it offers. Pros of the ID.3 include its great looks, practical size for city driving, and good battery economy. Cons include minimal changes from the previous model and a slightly fiddly interior tech.

The new ID.3 is a facelift rather than a complete redesign. Changes to the exterior include sportier details, improved aerodynamics, and cleaner lines. The interior has seen upgrades in terms of soft-touch finishes and stitching, but it still features a lot of hard plastics. The ID.3 offers ample space, thanks to the skateboard design of its MEB platform, and comfortable seating. The visibility is good, and the car is easy to handle in urban areas.

The infotainment system of the ID.3 has been improved but still falls short of expectations. It features a smaller driver display and a central touchscreen display. The user interface can be fiddly to use, and VW's voice assistant is not as useful as other options. The system does offer a heads-up display, which can be helpful for navigation.

The ID.3 comes with two battery options, offering a range of up to 347 miles. It features a single motor driving the rear wheels and offers a nippy driving experience. The new model also supports faster charging, up to 170kW. The ID.3 is efficient and comfortable to drive, especially on well-surfaced twisting roads.

Overall, the VW ID.3 is an important car for Volkswagen in its quest to dominate the electric vehicle market. While it may not bring groundbreaking changes, it offers a familiar and enjoyable driving experience with improved interior quality and faster charging capabilities. However, the rising price may make it less attractive compared to other options in the market.