Have you considered going electric for your next vehicle purchase? As more automakers expand their EV model ranges, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Volkswagen aims to lead the way into the electric era with their ID.3 – a stylish and tech-filled compact hatchback designed from the ground up to deliver affordable zero-emissions transportation to the masses.
After reading this guide outlining seven great reasons to choose an ID.3, you‘ll likely have this exciting new EV at the top of your shopping list!
Overview
The ID.3 combines stunning design, impressive driving range, excellent efficiency, ample passenger and cargo room, advanced technology, fun-to-drive performance versions, and strong value – all in a tidy, practical hatchback form. Built on VW‘s flexible MEB electric-only architecture, the ID.3 sets new standards in blending cutting-edge features, sustainability, and attractive pricing starting under €37,000. Let‘s explore why the ID.3 deserves a spot on your driveway.
Reason 1: Eye-Catching, Futuristic Styling
eVehicles often get tagged with frumpy or nerdy looks, but one glance at the ID.3 will change your perceptions. The smoothly contoured exterior exudes speed and athleticism even while parked still, thanks to flowing lines, a long wheelbase, big wheels pushed to the corners, and short front and rear overhangs. The honeycomb front grille improves aerodynamic slipperiness by closing automatically when speeds rise. Flush door handles, cameras instead of mirrors, and edge-to-edge rear tail lamps reinforce the sleek, next-generation theme.
Inside, a clean, uncluttered layout focused on either a 10” or 12” central touchscreen puts the ID.3 on par with premium vehicles. Volkswagen’s designers expertly blended sustainability, digitalization, comfort and style throughout the ID.3. Industry reviewers praise both the emotional exterior and minimalist, tech-savvy interior ambiance of this electric pioneer.
Reason 2: Engaging Dynamics and Handling
Many affordable economy EVs sacrifice driver engagement in the name of maximizing efficiency. Not so with the eager and nimble ID.3! Rear-wheel drive architecture, battery packs mounted low in the floor, and almost perfect front/rear weight balance gift the ID.3 with responsive, enthusiastic handling. Light yet accurate steering combines with the torsionally stiff chassis for an athletic and tossable feel encouraging you to explore its capabilities. Independent publications confirm the ID.3 attacks winding roads with verve while remaining stable and predictable near the limit.
While the 201 hp ID.3 Pro S model accelerates from 0-60 mph in a segment competitive 7.9 seconds, straight line thrills take a back seat to flowing down a serpentine lane where the ID.3 shines brightest. Adding to the fun, the low rolling resistance tires even offer enough grip for enthusiastic corner-carving.
Reason 3: Outstanding Efficiency and Range
Squeezing maximum driving distance from each battery charge proves critical for mass adoption of electric vehicles. The ID.3 sets new targets by delivering up to 341 miles (550 km) from its top-spec 77 kWh battery, tested using the European WLTP protocol. The “Pure” base model travels over 200 miles per charge, while mid-level “Pro” models achieve 260-320 miles depending on battery size and drive configuration.
For comparison, these ranges handily surpass current competitors like the Nissan Leaf Plus (215 miles), Kia Niro EV (239 miles), and VW’s own e-Golf (201 miles). The Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus posts 250 miles. Only much larger luxury-class EVs like Tesla’s Model S and Jaguar I-Pace travel farther on a full battery.
Day-to-day energy consumption also leads the field at under 16 kWh per 60 miles or approx. 3.5 miles/kWh. Smart slow-speed driving stretches each charge even more. ID.3 models spec’d with heat pumps maximize winter range too. With this extreme range and frugality, ID.3 owners can cover most weekly trips with home charging alone.
Reason 4: Roomy, Flexible Interior Space
The ID.3’s bespoke MEB platform gifts it unmatched interior room within its tidy hatchback footprint. Clever packaging stretches the wheelbase while minimizing overhangs to yield a remarkably airy, lounge-like environment. Five adults fit comfortably with acres of rear legroom in particular. The ID.3 closely matches the interior measurements of much larger vehicles like Volkswagen’s own Passat sedan.
Numerous cubbies and storage bins plus door pockets and cupholders keep personal items close. Behind the rear bench, the 13 cubic foot trunk handles bulkier items like strollers or golf bags. Folding the 60/40 split seats expands space for home improvement hauls or that road trip up the coast. It’s easier to live sustainably when an eco-friendly vehicle offers such everyday practicality and flexibility.
Reason 5: Premium Tech Features and Upgrades
As Volkswagen‘s first dedicated electric model, the ID.3 debuts multiple technologies new to the brand’s portfolio. The Discover Pro touchscreen headlines by combining navigation, natural voice control, and wireless smartphone integration into one powerful yet intuitive 10” display. Its satellite navigation adapts planned routes to maximize range and factors public charging stations into trip planning.
An augmented reality head-up display projects key data like speed and navigation commands directly into your view of the road ahead. A dozen speakers and subwoofer from audio leader Beats transform the ID.3 into a concert hall for tunes. Many advanced driving assistance systems like collision warning, blind spot monitoring, emergency braking, lane centering aid, and self-parking make every trip easier. With one of the market’s most comprehensive technology suites, the ID.3 sets new benchmarks for affordable electric mobility.
Reason 6: Sporty ID.3 GTX Performance Model
While the standard ID.3 lineup meets most commuting and family transportation duties, Volkswagen injects extra excitement with the first ID.3 GTX hot hatch. Taking inspiration from performance icons like the Golf R and ID.4 GTX, the addition of a front motor gives the special GTX edition nearly 300 hp and AWD grip. This transforms the friendly runabout into a legitimate hot hatch rocketing to 60 mph in under 6.5 seconds – right on par with the 275 hp Hyundai Veloster N or 300 hp Ford Focus RS.
Beyond just straight-line speed, the GTX receives a sports-tuned suspension dropping ride height 0.6 inches, uprated damping, a small steering wheel, and 20” wheels. Audible sounds programmed into the exterior speakers highlight the GTX’s specialness. With its bespoke styling elements inside and out, the first ever EV hot hatch from Volkswagen promises sustainability without sacrificing driver engagement.
Reason 7: Strong Value Proposition
The ID.3 sets a new price-to-performance benchmark by packing impressive EV range, tech, luxury, and road manners into such an affordable package. While final transaction prices vary slightly across European countries, MSRP for the entry-level Pure Performance model starts around €37,000. Even the flagship Pro S model with 260+ miles of range costs less than €45,000. Comparable internal combustion engine vehicles with similar cabins, performance, and features command much higher prices.
Reviewers praise the value equation of the ID.3 against both fossil fuel and EV rivals. As gas prices continue rising amidst inflation and supply issues, the ID.3’s low operating costs and sustainable mobility become even more attractive. For budget-focused buyers without desire for the greater performance and operating costs of premium brands, Volkswagen’s first dedicated electric vehicle makes a timely and sensible choice.
Alternatives in the North American Market
Since Volkswagen has no announced plans currently to offer the ID.3 in North America, buyers have three alternatives delivering similar dimensions and capabilities:
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Tesla Model 3 – The category sales leader promises superior acceleration, technology, range, and access to Tesla’s vast Supercharger network. Higher $43,000+ pricing matches extra performance and luxury accoutrements.
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Kia Niro EV – Kia’s practical small crossover morphs into a 239-mile EV that starts around $40,000. Less performance balanced by good passenger and cargo space plus lower MSRP.
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Hyundai IONIQ 5 – Retro-futuristic styling inside and out caps this 2023 North American Car of the Year finalist. Up to 303 miles range and 800V fast charging amp up the appeal.
||Entry Price (USD)|Range (mi)|0-60 mph (sec)|Cargo Capacity (cu ft)|
|-|-|-|-|-|
|Volkswagen ID.3 Pure|$36,000|205|8.5|13.6|
|Tesla Model 3 RWD|$43,000|272|5.8|15.0|
|Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE|$44,000|220|8.5|18.5|
|Kia Niro EV EX|$40,000|239|7.8|18.5|
With emotive styling, ample interior room, long EV driving range, sharp handling reflexes, and reasonable pricing, the ID.3 makes a winning case as the electric mobility solution for mainstream buyers. Combining forward-looking design with Volkswagen’s manufacturing excellence, the well-rounded ID.3 deserves a test drive from anyone considering leaving fossil-fueled vehicles behind for good. Act quickly though as supply constraints and rising demand could limit availability of the most popular configurations.
I hope this detailed analysis gave you a clearer picture of the ID.3’s compelling blend of sustainability, comfort, technology, and real world usability. What aspects of Volkswagen’s first dedicated electric resonated most with your driving needs? Let me know if you have any other questions!
