It’s widely known that VW is pursuing electric powertrain development with ambition and aggression. When it was launched in 2019, a lot of pressure was placed on the ID.3. As the first application of Volkswagen’s MEB platform, there was always going to be, but pair that with the engineering burden of being the first model in the ID. series and that weight of expectation was compounded.
Two and a half years later, the second-generation version of the ID.3 was refreshed with new features including upgraded software, the latest driver assistance features, more connectivity, VW’s Plug and Charge app for simpler charging, as well as updates to exterior design elements. It is still offered with the same two powertrain options.
That means the 2023 ID.3 is still equipped with the very same battery technology as the predecessor: a 58kWh battery in the Pro model – which is what APTI had on test – and 77kWh in the Pro S. A 204ps (150kW) rear-axle-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor produces 426km of WLTP battery range, or 546km in the Pro, and 310Nm of torque. That’s mated to a direct drive single-speed gearbox.
When plugged into a 170kW charger, the 58kWh battery pack in the Pro variant will hit 80% capacity in 35 minutes, and in 30 minutes with a charging power up to 170kWh.
Over APTI’s time with the car, range figures were respectable, on average 3.5m/kWh. It’s easy to conserve miles on shorter journeys, and unless one is particularly heavy-footed on highways, the range doesn’t drop quicker than it should – so there’s real mileage to be had in the ‘less is more’ approach. As such, that old issue of range anxiety that still plagues so many other EVs isn’t a problem.
VW’s underlying EV technology isn’t bad at all. Apart from the regenerative braking being a little on the modest side for APTI’s liking, the powertrain in the ID.3 is wonderfully refined. Power delivery is incredibly smooth. NVH generated by the motors and road is minimal.
While it works well, in APTI’s opinion, the package overall lacks sparkle – that ‘special something’. The software still has a lot of kinks that need ironing out, which cannot be overlooked in today’s technology-rich vehicle market. Even though it is impressive on some fronts, those seeking a practical electric all-rounder might well look elsewhere for want of a hatchback with a bit more pizzazz.
