New electric Volkswagen ID.3 GTI hot hatch revealed
Volkswagen has unveiled the ID.3 GTI, replacing the ID.3 GTX Performance as the flagship version of its electric family hatchback.
The new model brings Volkswagen’s renowned GTI branding to the ID.3 for the first time, following the smaller ID. Polo GTI that was unveiled earlier this year.
Underneath, the ID.3 GTI isn’t dramatically more powerful than the GTX Performance it replaces. Both produce 326hp, but Volkswagen has given the new model revised chassis settings, a dedicated GTI driving mode and Launch Control, alongside the wider upgrades introduced with the new ID.3 Neo range.
It will sit alongside the smaller 226hp ID. Polo GTI, which is expected to reach the market first, as Volkswagen expands the GTI badge beyond its traditional petrol-powered models.
Familiar performance, new GTI setup
The ID.3 GTI uses a single electric motor mounted at the rear, producing 326hp. Those figures are identical to the outgoing ID.3 GTX Performance, as is the 124mph electronically-limited top speed. The GTI completes the 0-62mph sprint in 5.6 seconds, one tenth quicker than its predecessor.
The bigger differences are found in the chassis and software. Adaptive DCC sports suspension and progressive steering are standard, accompanied by a new dedicated GTI driving mode and Launch Control.
Selecting GTI mode sharpens the response of the motor, steering and suspension and changes the display graphics and ambient lighting. Volkswagen has also added an artificial combustion engine sound.
Up to 373 miles of range
The ID.3 GTI uses the same-size 79kWh usable battery as the outgoing GTX Performance and offers up to a reported 373 miles of range – effectively unchanged from its predecessor.
DC rapid charging peaks at 183kW, with Volkswagen quoting around 29 minutes for a 10% to 80% charge.
The ID.3 GTI also introduces vehicle-to-load capability, allowing electrical equipment to be powered from the battery using an optional adapter plugged into the car’s charging port.
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