German legacy automaker Volkswagen is reportedly gearing up to bring the ID.3 GTX hot electric vehicle with 281 horsepower in rear-wheel-drive configuration to the market this year.
According to UK-based news platform AutoCar, the new sporty model version will be an “electric Golf GTI alternative.”
Background
Volkswagen initially disclosed plans for the new electric hot hatchback during the smaller ID GTI concept reveal at the IAA Mobility Show in September 2023. It featured distinct exterior designs and upgraded interior features.
It also showed off an improved drivetrain for more power and torque compared to the currently available ID.3 variants.
Interestingly, the prior leadership announced plans in 2019 to equip the new version with a dual motor and enable a four-wheel-drive setup. However, the current Chief Executive, Thomas Schäfer, previously renounced that plan due to the company’s cost-cutting efforts.
What’s currently known about the ID.3 GTX’s technical specs?
Volkswagen has yet to reveal more details about the new model version’s technical details.
As of now, the report suggests that it would feature the company’s more powerful APP550 motor rather than the ID. 3’s current APP310 unit. The new motor can apparently enable 281 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque.
It indicates an 80 hp and 174 lb-ft increase from the currently most potent ID.3 Pro S variant. In addition, it features improved cooling capabilities, new windings, and a more efficient inverter.
Other notable features
The Volkswagen ID 3 GTX will feature a distinctly adjusted chassis, enabling the following changes:
- improved gearing for the steering
- stronger springs and dampers
- lowered ride height, etc.
In addition, it will also come with recalibrated stability and traction control systems. Furthermore, it will feature an upgraded driving mode controller.
As usual, it will also employ a single-speed reduction gearing and a potential 77 kWh li-ion battery for 311+ miles of WLTP-rated driving range.
Interestingly, it may lack the iconic GTI badge. Nonetheless, it will highly likely include the badges’ legacy design elements, such as deeper bumpers, honeycomb inserts, new sills, and distinctive wheel configurations.
On the other hand, Auto Evolution reported that the Golf will have a new-gen revamp with an entirely new platform that can deliver up to 1,700 horsepower. It will only apparently come with an all-electric version, potentially hitting the market before 2028.
