Volkswagen expands ID.3 electric offerings, with entry and performance variants

German automaker Volkswagen is expanding the range of its top-selling ID.3 all-electric hatchback with a new entry-level Pure, enhanced Pro, and the more powerful GTX.

While the ID.3 has still yet to launch in Australia, Volkswagen is expanding the EV’s lineup overseas with three new versions designed to diversify the lineup and make it more appealing to more customers.

The new ID.3 GTX is the line’s sporty flagship model, boasting  an output of 210kW and 285 horsepower, maximum torque of 545Nm, and acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 5.9 seconds and combined WLTP range of 604km.

It features a 79kWh lithium-ion battery which can be charged at DC fast charging stations with up to 185kW, meaning the car can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 26 minutes.

An individualised design sets the GTX apart from its siblings, with a GTX-specific front bumper featuring a new independent black air intake in a diamond-style design.

The left and right bumpers are limited by new daytime running lights that together form an X, while the wheels feature black-painted inner surfaces and bright diamond-cut outer surfaces. Available as an option, the 20-inch Skagen GTX wheel rim will also be available completely in black.

Inside, a number of GTX-specific features dominate the styling, including premium sport seats as standard with red topstitching and perforated GTX lettering in the front seat backrests, while red stitching and GTX lettering also feature on the multi-function steering wheel.

The ID.3 Pro receives an upgrade with improved software and infotainment and the option of digitally upgrading the car’s output from 150kW and 203 horsepower to 170kW and 231 horsepower, which will improve acceleration from 0-100km/h to 6.6 seconds.

A 59kWh lithium-ion battery delivers a combined WLTP range of up to 434km, with maximum charging capacity increased from 120kW to 165kW.

Rounding out Volkswagen’s ID.3 lineup is a new entry-level model, the ID.3 Pure, which boasts 125kW and 170 horsepower and a 52kWh lithium-ion battery providing a combined WLTP range of up to 388km and maximum charging capacity of up to 145kW.

All ID.3 models will also come with Volkswagen’s new Wellness app which has been developed to provide increased “well-being” while driving or during breaks, utilising background lighting, sound, and air conditioning to optimise the driving atmosphere.

An optional 480-watt Harmon Kardon sound system will also be available across the ID.3 lineup, offering 12 channels and four preconfigured sound settings which can also be individually adjusted according to personal taste.

A new charging and thermal management function will also be included in all new ID.3 models which makes sure the battery is pre-conditioned ahead of the next DC charging stop, heating the battery to the optimum temperature so that it can be charged with maximum respective output.