Volkswagen has unveiled the ID.3 and it’s their first model in their new generation of pure electric vehicles for the masses. According to the carmaker, the ID.3 is a compact all-rounder that offers the manoeuvrability of a small car with the interior space of a mid-range vehicle.
The zero-emission vehicle uses the Modular Electrive Drive Matrix (MEB) platform that has a long wheelbase and short overhangs to create a spacious interior dubbed the Open Space. On the inside, it uses newly designed display elements and controls making it intuitive for the driver. Apart from the display in the cockpit, the centre also features a 10″ touch display that’s angled towards the driver. In terms of overall dimensions, the ID.3 is slightly longer and wider than the VW Golf by a few mm but it’s 70mm taller. On the inside, you’ll sit 17mm higher due to the lithium-ion batteries placed under the seats.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is offered with three battery options – 45kWh that has a range of up to 330km, a 58kWh version with up to 420km of range and the largest 77kWh option with up to 550km of range. The provided range figures are based on WLTP tests. Using a 100kW fast charger, the ID.3 can be charged with 290 km of range in just 30 minutes.
The base model has an electric motor that has an output of 148bhp and if you want more power, there’s a higher 201bhp option. The ID.3 is rear-wheel drive and both motor options have the same max torque of 310Nm.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is priced from under 30,000 EUR (about RM138,129) and the special ID.3 1st editions are priced from under 40,000 EUR (about RM184,172) with a 201bhp electric motor and a 58kWh battery.
There are three ID.3 1st edition options to choose from. The basic model features a navigation system, a DAB+ digital radio, seat heating, steering wheel heating, armrests for the front, a Mode 2 charging cable and 18″ light-alloy wheels.
For the ID.3 1st Plus model, it gets an additional rearview camera, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control and the Kessy Advanced keyless access locking and starting system. The car also comes with design seats, a centre console with two USB-C connections, ambient lighting plus additional extras for the exterior which include matrix LED headlights, matrix sidelights, brake lights, turn indicators and tail light clusters along with 19″ light-alloy wheels.
The top of the line ID.3 1st max gets extra augmented reality (AR) head-up display, Beats sound system, large panorama sliding/tilting glass roof and 20″ light-alloy wheels. There are also additional safety features such as a lane-keeping system with Emergency Assist, lane change system, wireless charger for your phone and comfort seats.
