Only two and a half years after its debut, Volkswagen has taken a thorough look at its “hero car” of e-mobility, the ID.3. The revision addresses various points of criticism, above all the material quality in the interior. But things have changed on the outside too, and the electronics have been further improved.
There are no official photos yet, but the sketches already reveal a few things: the front apron has become wider and sportier, vertical air inlets flow through bring aerodynamic improvements. The bonnet, which was previously partially black, is now painted the same color as the vehicle and is grooved lengthwise.
This looks less puristic, but much sportier and visually stretches the front end, and the lettering that has migrated from the front side panel to the front door also contributes to this impression. The range of wheel rims is rearranged, and at the rear the light strips in the tailgate are no longer designed as reflectors, but as part of the tail light. The color scheme also changes.
Significantly more serious are the changes in the interior, which some critics felt was not high enough. Now the inner door paneling and the top of the dashboard are made of soft material, the premium center console with cup holders, which previously had to be paid for, is now standard, and there are artificial leather applications with decorative stitching.
The steering wheel, previously covered with leather, has been refined and is now made of imitation leather – VW calls this “animal-free”. The color range is becoming darker and more conventional – and unfortunately the unusual variant with contrasting elements in “safrano orange” is no longer available.
With the facelift, a larger 12-inch screen will find its way into the ID.3, and in the future there will also be functions that are already available at the time of purchase and that the customer can book later. VW is already announcing that in mid-2024 infotainment and telematics will be revised again, then with illuminated volume control and even better operating logic. The steering wheel should then also receive a new generation of buttons.
There are hardly any changes in the equipment packages and the drive. Prices start at 43,995 euros for the entry-level model Life and range up to 56,500 euros for the top model Tour with a large battery. The end of the road has not yet been reached. VW may be able to offer a more cost-effective version with a smaller battery. At the other end of the spectrum, there will certainly be an ID.3 GTX with a more powerful rear engine. An ID.3 R with additional front-wheel drive is even conceivable; the platform would give it.
The lifted ID.3 will not be shown until spring 2023. However, anyone who orders one today will already receive the improved model – and not before the fourth quarter of 2023, although the compact car will be in an additional third plant from 2023, namely in the VW main plant Wolfsburg, is to be built. More pleasing, higher quality, less unusual: the ID.3 is well prepared for the growing competition. (aum/jm)