Volkswagen reveals first ID model

Volkswagen pulled the cover off the car set to lead its expanding range of electric vehicles – and what some argue is the most important model for the brand since the Beetle.

The ID.3 is the first in the ID range of electric vehicles. Rather that a ICE car adapted to electric, it is a fully-electrified model, with a unique format and layout.

At production launch it will have three battery options; a 45kWh model capable of 330km on the WLTP scale – and priced in Europe at around $50,000. Bigger options will include a 58kWh model with a 420km range, and a 77kWh batter gives a massive 550km range.

The ID can take a DC charge of up to 100kW.

The motor is housed under the rear of the car, like the Beetle driving the rear wheels, and products 150kW, with maximum torque of 310Nm. The car will have a 160km/h top speed.

Volkswagen claims interior space is class leading, due to the wheel at each corner stance and long wheel base.

All controls – including those on the electrically adjustable multifunction steering wheel – are operated using touch functions featuring touch-sensitive buttons. Only the electric windows and hazard warning lights are still operated using tactile switches.

Volkswagen opened preorders for the first models on sale – called the 1st – in May. While the European model range is not confirmed for NZ, it does give us an indication of what to expect.

The basic version of the ID.3 1st includes a navigation system, a DAB+ digital radio, seat heating and steering wheel heating, armrests at the front, a Mode 2 charging cable and 18-inch light-alloy wheels.

The ID.3 1st Plus additionally features a rear view camera system, ACC Adaptive Cruise Control and the Kessy Advanced keyless access locking and starting system.

The vehicle interior of the ID.3 1st Plus also includes design seats, a centre console with two USB-C connections and ambient lighting. Forming part of the exterior equipment scope are tinted windows, the exterior Style package in silver, matrix LED headlights, matrix side lights, brake lights, turn indicators and tail light clusters as well as 19-inch light-alloy wheels.

The top-of-the-range version, the ID.3 1st Max, also includes an augmented reality (AR) head-up display, the Beats sound system, a large panorama sliding/tilting glass roof as well as 20-inch light-alloy wheels. This equipment scope is supplemented by a lane keeping system with Emergency Assist, a lane change system, telephony featuring contactless high-voltage battery charging and comfort seats.