But is this the case? The mid-size all-electric hatchback from Volkswagen, It differs aesthetically and functionally from its thermal sibling. Having had the VW ID.3 Pro Performance at our disposal for a week, we identify the elements that differentiate it, as well as the similarities.
The philosophy of sustainability
Volkswagen unveiled a range of ID.Series electric prototypes at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The first fruit of the massive project is the futuristic ID.3 which was unveiled in 2019 in Frankfurt and is based on the advanced MEB platform. In March 2023 the German company stepped in with a subtle refresh. Both the ID.3 and the entire ID.Series electric range encompass the modern philosophy of sustainability.
Eccentric and futuristic
The car features an innovative, futuristic design in a 1.5 volume body that straddles the line between MVP and Hatcback, making it instantly recognisable and differentiating it from anything else on the road.
The front is oval, featuring a "cute, smiling face". In place of the grille, a thin horizontal LED strip joins the beautiful and modern matrix LED lights, showing that it has travelled from the future, while the chunky bumper leaves a note of dynamism.
The profile is in stark contrast to the front set. Straight lines, sharp edges, and muscular surfaces make up a modern and easily recognisable silhouette. The high body height contributes to increased practicality. But the most distinctive feature is the large and vertical glass surfaces!
The rear is the most distinctive part of the car, the laminated exterior fifth door in black integrates the slim horizontal lights with Led graphics, forming a beautiful visual effect. The bumper has a low loading threshold, emphasizing practicality, and the large roof spoiler completes the look of a car that wishes to become the symbol of transition for the VW Group!
Seminar... space management
The exterior design of the car is reminiscent of an egg. This detail is of great importance for the interior of the car, as the designers were able to make the most of the available space.
In particular, foam and sustainable and recyclable materials with good tactile feel have been used as the base, such as the steering wheel made of "vegan" leather and the door panels with the seats have been made of "Artvelour" microfibre material made of 71% recycled plastic waste. Their assembly is in keeping with VW's name and reputation, leaving a beautiful feel.
Centre stage in the dashboard is the advanced multimedia system compatible with Android Auto and Apple AirPlay supported by the standard 12-inch screen on all versions. Also of interest is the Minimal 5.3-inch instrument panel on the column of the handsome steering wheel, with all the necessary information for the driver in continuous time.
The dashboard and cabin are characterised by simple and clean lines, without being challenging, in order not to tire the driver and passengers. This makes the environment pleasant and welcoming.
Plenty of space in the front and rear, with clever compartments and functional - practical solutions. The designers even made the most of every millimetre inside the cabin. The flat floor plays an important role both at the front and rear.
Comfort is also at a top level with ideal lumbar support, as the seats are airplane-style and enjoyable, even on long journeys. We should note here that for the front passengers there is also a massage function, making driving... a pleasure!
Ergonomically, the driver has all the necessary switches and functions at eye level, so they don't have to take their eyes off the road.
The luggage volume is 385 lt and expands to 1,267 lt with the rear seats folded down, creating a flat cargo area.
Power to the rear axle
Under the bonnet is an advanced electric motor producing 204 hp and 310 Nm of torque, efficient enough for the average driver, sending power to the rear axle. It is combined with LG's 58 kWh battery pack, which gives a combined range of 427 kilometres according to WLTP standards.
Genuine Volkswagen
Its eccentric appearance and the bodywork reminiscent of an all-rounder may do it a disservice, because they don't reveal its driving qualities, nor do they raise expectations about its road behaviour. However, it is imperative to move from theory to practice to experience it in every possible condition and see if it confirms or surprises us.
In the city has as its ally the compact dimensions. Agile and nervous, it accelerates lightning fast, making the necessary game maneuvers. ID.3 is the "ecological" ally in the daily life of the urban fabric!
In the mountain and rural network will pleasantly surprise driver and passengers alike, as it contradicts early expectations, while proving that it is a genuine VW with a similar driving behaviour. The handling is top notch. The car grips the road very well with the soft suspension focusing on comfort without neglecting safety. The sturdy MEB chassis plays a key role in all this. It doesn't claim laurels in the context of driving pleasure, yet it is a pleasure as a ride car.
On the motorway the car leaves no doubt about its German origins. Top-quality ride quality with ideal sound insulation, it moves comfortably even at high speeds.
General in road handling is reminiscent of the Volkswagen thermals. It doesn't excite, but it does create a feeling of safety. It's essentially an electric ride-on car. With three driving profiles, ECO, Normal and Sport. The driver is subtly aware of rear-wheel drive, in all conditions, creating a pleasant feeling. Since the ECO and Normal modes are a bit "cold", the driving option in Sport is a one-way street! The average combined consumption is 14 kWh.
In terms of full electricity recovery, this takes about 2.5 hours on a 20 kW fast charger with CCS output.
For ecologically conscious family members
The VW ID.3 is a car that eco-conscious family members who have embraced the energy transition and consider the acquisition of an electric car a one-way street will consider buying. They want plenty of space and drive mainly in urban areas!
High price... but with an extra offer
High is the acquisition price with the VW ID.3 Pro Performance with 58 kWh battery starts at 41.200,00 € the amount after the subsidy of the "go electric" program combined with the additional benefit of 5,000 euros offered by the Greek dealership, then the price is reduced to 29,900 euros, valid for registrations until 31/5/2024.
Technical Characteristics
| AMAXOMA | |
| Press | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| EPIDOSIS | |
| Fuel type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h |
| ELECTRIC MOTOR | |
| Power | 204 hp |
| Torque | 310 Nm |
| Electric motor model/code | EBJ |
| Electric motor position | Transverse |
| Type of electric motor | Modern |
| BATTERY | |
| Gross battery capacity | 62 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 58 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery position | Under the floor |
| Electric range (WLTP) | 426 km |
| Average energy consumption (WLTP) | 15.3-16.0 kWh/100 km |
| HEIGHT AND WEIGHT | |
| Weight | 1,815 kg |
| Minimum volume of luggage space | 385 lt |
| Maximum volume of luggage space | 1,267 lt |
| DIMENSIONS | |
| Length | 4261 mm |
| Width | 1809 mm |
| Height | 1562 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.263 |
| ARCHITECTURE | |
| Movement | On the rear axle |
| Number of ratios and type of gearbox | 1 speed / automatic gearbox |
| Front suspension | Independent McPherson type , Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Auxiliary systems | ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) |
| Type of address | Management chukrania (with teeth) |
| Management System | Electric Steering Wheel |
| Wheels | 215/55 R18 |
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