1. Introduction
The Volkswagen ID.3 is an all-electric car produced by the German legacy automaker since 2019. Volkswagen will launch the new facelift ID.3 sometime this year.
Volkswagen ID.3 is the inaugural model to ride on the new MEB platform. It is also the first model under the brand’s ID. series.
2. New Features in 2023
Volkswagen’s all-electric bestseller, the ID.3, is set to receive a major upgrade in 2024. The new model will feature a fresh design, higher-quality materials, and the latest-generation assist systems two and a half years after the current ID.3 launched.
3. Design and Aesthetics:
A. Exterior Design and Style
The new facelift ID.3 will have a refreshed exterior look, with new bumpers featuring optimized air vents and large painted surfaces, giving the front a confident and sporty appearance from all angles. The updated design of the two-part tail lights will also make them shine from within the boot lid for the first time. VW has improved the car’s aerodynamics by enhancing the airflow around the front wheels with an “air curtain.”
B. Interiors and Materials
The new facelift ID.3 will boast an interior that combines contemporary design with sustainable materials. The precise seams in a contrasting color will enhance the feeling of quality.
VW uses Artvelours Eco, a microfiber material, for the door trims and seat covers. This fabric contains 71% recyclate, a secondary raw material obtained by recycling plastic that has previously been disposed of as waste at least once. For context, Artvelours Eco is a new material that looks and feels like conventional material while being durable and animal-free.
C. Build Quality, Fit and Finish
As the 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 is a new model, there are not many reviews available yet, specifically mentioning its build quality. However, some owners on forums have reported a positive experience with the build quality.
D. Ergonomics and Comfort
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 is known for its ergonomic design and comfortable ride. The front seats possess wide bases and are highly adjustable, allowing for easy comfort customization. They were upgraded in the 2024 facelift and are now covered in premium materials, providing support during long drives. The driver’s seat also features lumbar adjustment for added comfort.
E. Cargo Space and Storage
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 boasts a decent cargo capacity of 385 liters (13.6 cubic feet) with the rear seats in an upright position. This is only slightly more than the contemporary Volkswagen Golf has offer. The ID.3’s cargo area is square, which makes it ideal for carrying luggage. Additionally, the rear seats can be folded down to provide up to 1601 liters (56.5 cubic feet) of cargo space.
| Items | 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 |
| Seats | Five |
| Boot volume | 385L |
| Length | 4264mm |
| Width | 1809mm |
| Height | 1564mm |
| Wheelbase | 2770mm |
4. Performance and Driving Dynamics:
A. Powertrain and Battery Specifications
| Volkswagen ID.3 Pro Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S – 4 Seats Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Expected from August 2024 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Performance Expected from August 2024 | |
| Electric Range | 350 km | 455 km | 460 km | 460 km |
| Total Power | 150 kW (204 PS) | 150 kW (204 PS) | 210 kW (286 PS) | 240 kW (326 PS) |
| Total Torque | 310 Nm | 310 Nm | 545 Nm | 545 Nm |
| Drive | Rear | Rear | Rear | Rear |
| Nominal Capacity | 62.0 kWh | 82.0 kWh | 82.0 kWh | 82.0 kWh |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion |
| Number of Cells | 216 | 288 | No Data | No Data |
| Architecture | 400 V | 400 V | 400 V | 400 V |
| Useable Capacity | 58.0 kWh | 77.0 kWh | 79.0 kWh | 79.0 kWh |
| Cathode Material | No Data | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Pack Configuration | 108s2p | 96s3p | No Data | No Data |
| Nominal Voltage | 400 V | 350 V | No Data | No Data |
B. Acceleration and Top Speed
| Volkswagen ID.3 Pro Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S – 4 Seats Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Expected from August 2024 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Performance Expected from August 2024 | |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec | 7.9 sec | 6.0 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 160 km/h | 180 km/h | 200 km/h |
C. Handling and Ride Quality
The Volkswagen ID.3 is quiet and refined on the highway, offering good suspension that absorbs bumps at speed. The lighter Pro version enables a more comfortable ride, particularly on smooth roads. However, the Pro S model with a larger battery is heavier, thudding more on road bumps than the Pro.
D. Braking Performance
The ID.3 offers front disc brakes, significantly improving its stopping power.
E. Regenerative Braking
It also has a regenerative braking system, helping it to slow down and return energy to the battery. In effect, it gains additional driving range.
5. Range, Charging, and Efficiency:
a. EPA-estimated range and real-world range
| Battery Size | WLTP Range |
| 45 kWh battery | up to 330 km (205 mi) |
| 58 kWh battery | up to 420 km (260 mi) |
| 77 kWh battery | up to 550 km (340 mi) |
No available EPA-estimated range data.
B. Charging Options and Infrastructure
Volkswagen ID.3 Pro
Home / Destination
| Charge Port | Type 2 |
| Port Location | Right Side – Rear |
| Charge Power | 11 kW AC |
| Charge Time (0->350 km) | 6h15m |
| Charge Speed | 56 km/h |
Fast Charging
| Fastcharge Port | CCS |
| FC Port Location | Right Side – Rear |
| Fastcharge Power (max) | 120 kW DC |
| Fastcharge Power (10-80%) | 80 kW DC |
| Fastcharge Time (35->280 km) | 32 min |
| Fastcharge Speed | 450 km/h |
| Autocharge Supported | No |
Plug & Charge
| Plug & Charge Supported | Yes |
| Supported Protocol | ISO 15118-2 |
C. Charging times for various charging levels (Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging)
Home and Destination Charging (0 -> 100%): Type 2 (Mennekes – IEC 62196)
| Charging Point | Max. Power | Power | Time | Rate |
| Wall Plug (2.3 kW) | 230V / 1x10A | 2.3 kW | 29h45m | 12 km/h |
| 1-phase 16A (3.7 kW) | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW | 18h30m | 19 km/h |
| 1-phase 32A (7.4 kW) | 230V / 1x32A | 7.4 kW | 9h15m | 38 km/h |
| 3-phase 16A (11 kW) | 400V / 3x16A | 11 kW | 6h15m | 56 km/h |
| 3-phase 32A (22 kW) | 400V / 3x16A | 11 kW † | 6h15m | 56 km/h |
Fast Charging (10 -> 80%): Combined Charging System (CCS Combo 2)
| Charging Point | Max. Power | Avg. Power | Time | Rate |
| CCS (50 kW DC) | 50 kW | 40 kW † | 64 min | 230 km/h |
| CCS (100 kW DC) | 100 kW | 70 kW † | 37 min | 390 km/h |
| CCS (150 kW DC) | 120 kW † | 80 kW † | 32 min | 450 km/h |
D. Energy Consumption and Efficiency
| Volkswagen ID.3 Pro Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S – 4 Seats Available since March 2023 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Expected from August 2024 | Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Performance Expected from August 2024 | |
| EVDB Real Range * | 350 km | 455 km | 460 km | 460 km |
| Vehicle Consumption * | 166 Wh/km | 169 Wh/km | 172 Wh/km | 172 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent * | 1.9 l/100km | 1.9 l/100km | 1.9 l/100km | 1.9 l/100km |
| WLTP Range | 429 km | 559 km | 600 km | 600 km |
| Rated Consumption | 150 Wh/km | 150 Wh/km | No Data | No Data |
| Vehicle Consumption | 135 Wh/km | 138 Wh/km | 132 Wh/km | 132 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km |
| Rated Fuel Equivalent | 1.7 l/100km | 1.8 l/100km | No Data | No Data |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 1.5 l/100km | 1.5 l/100km | 1.5 l/100km | 1.5 l/100km |
6. Infotainment and Connectivity:
A. Dashboard and Instrument Cluster
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 offers a minimalist and driver-centered dashboard design. It features a digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel to display key information like speed, range, navigation, and driver assistance features.
It also has a central touchscreen infotainment system to control climate, audio, and navigation. Depending on the region, available options include a 10-inch and 12.3-inch screen.
B. Infotainment System and Features
The European-spec 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 comes equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Some of the features include:
- Built-in navigation
- Voice control
- Bluetooth connectivity
- HD radio and Satellite radio
- A reversing camera
C. Smartphone Integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing owners to mirror their smartphone’s screen on the car’s touchscreen. I
E. Over-the-Air Software Updates
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 can receive software updates wirelessly through its internet connection, bringing new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
7. Safety and Driver Assistance:
A. Driver Assistance and Safety Systems (ADAS)
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 offers a wide range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that improve driving experience and safety, including the following:
- Front Assist
- Lane Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Travel Assist
- Emergency Assist
- Park Assist
- Side Assist
8. Reliability, Maintenance, and Warranty:
A. Reliability and Build Quality
Volkswagen is a reliable brand that produces quality cars. The 2024 ID.4’s build quality is excellent, with no rattles and a solid feel. The software (version 3.5) has been stable and works as expected.
B. Maintenance and Service Requirements
| At a glance | 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 |
| Service intervals | 12 months/15,000km |
| Servicing costs | $990 (3 years) estimated $1590 (5 years) estimated |
c. Warranty coverage and options
- New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 3 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers), whichever comes first
- High-Voltage Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 kilometers), whichever comes first
d. Insurance costs and considerations
| 2024 Volkswagen ID4 Insurance Rates by Trim Level | ||
| 2024 Volkswagen ID4 Trim Level | Annual Premium | Cost Per Month |
| Standard | $1,590 | $133 |
| Pro | $1,672 | $139 |
| S | $1,678 | $140 |
Source: Insuraviz
e. Resale value and depreciation
The Volkswagen ID.3 is predicted to retain a resale value of 49-54% over three years or 36,000 miles. Among the different variants, the entry-level Pro models have the best depreciation performance, costing approximately £17,000 to own. This figure is average for the class, and interestingly, the Tesla Model 3 loses slightly more value to depreciation than the Volkswagen ID.3.
9. Comparison to Competitors:
a. Compare the reviewed EV to its key competitors
| Renault Megane e-Tech EV60 | Volkswagen ID.3 Pro 58 kWh | |
| Pricing | €42 900 | €46 100 |
| Motor power | 160 kW | 150 kW |
| Number of horses | 218 hp | 204 hp |
| Autonomy | 450 km | 416 km |
| Battery power | 60 kWh | 58 kWh |
| AC wallbox load power | 22 kw | 11 kW |
| AC recharge time | 3h15 min | 6h15 min |
| Fast charge power | 129 kW | 124 kW |
| Fast recharge time | 30 min. | 31 min |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 7.4 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Fuel consumption (WLTP) | 16.1 kWh/100 km | 15.6 kWh/100 km |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h | 160 km/h |
b. Discuss the unique selling points and drawbacks of the reviewed EV compared to its competitors
The Volkswagen ID.3 Pro boasts a slightly higher top speed (160 km/h vs 150 km/h). However, the Renault Megane e-Tech EV60 has a slightly longer driving range (450 km vs. 416 km), faster charging with a 22 kW wall box (3h 15min vs. 6h 15min), and a slightly more powerful motor (160 kW vs. 150 kW).
10. Variants and Pricing
a. List the available trims, options, and pricing
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 is a solid choice for a practical and comfortable electric vehicle model with a decent range. However, research the competition and consider your charging needs before deciding. The ID.3’s infotainment system might feel less advanced compared to some rivals.
11. Conclusion
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 is undoubtedly a good EV model, considering its decent driving range, improved interior, spacious interior, and cargo space.
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 is a great option for those who prioritize comfort, practicality, and affordability regarding EVs. However, suppose a longer driving range, faster charging, or a more thrilling driving experience are important factors for you. In that case, you might want to consider other EVs currently available in the market.
