Video Summary
- The ID.3 was Volkswagen’s first high-volume EV production car, arriving in late 2019.- The car utilizes VW’s MEB platform, which is unique to electric car drivetrains.
- Early models are badged “First Edition.” A base model, called Pure or Pure Performance, appeared in 2021.
- There are Pro models with larger battery packs that provide better range. Higher driving range trim variants are named “Pro”, “Pro Performance”, and “Pro S”.
- A GTX performance trim has been introduced, which features a more powerful drivetrain. These can be viewed as the electric GTI’s.
- The ID.3 received a facelift in 2023 to bring it in line with other ID specification vehicles.
- Base Pure models are limited to 7.2 kW charge. Pro models allow 11 kW charge if the location has three-phase power or a higher power limit.
- With a 7.2 kW charge, it will take 7.5 hours to fully charge a base specification Pure model with a 45 kWh battery. A larger ID.3 Pro battery (62 kWh) would take 9 hours on the same charger, or six hours if using an 11 kW charger.
- Fast charge speeds are limited to 50 kW until 2021, when 50 kW becomes the standard speed for Pure models. From 2021 onwards, a maximum of 110 kW is possible, depending on the home market. GTX models can charge at 175 kW.
- The ID.3 got a full 5-star rating at Euro NCAP. North America and Australia have not yet been tested.
- Range discrepancy is a common fault with used cars, due to the notable shifts in available range experienced on the go.
- There may be battery drain when parked, especially with the 12v battery.
- Recalls in 2021 involved a missing steering gear part; in 2022 there was a recall for inspection of the high-voltage battery packs; and in 2023, the front passenger airbag bolts not being tightened.
- Panels sometimes have pinching or are not fitted to VW standards on certain cars.
- The Pure Performance provides 110kW / 148bhp and 45kWh for a range of 217 miles. Pro models have 107kW and 58kWh (264 miles), and the Pro S have 150kW and 77kWh for 341 miles. The GTX and GTX performance models have ranges of 369 miles but high powers.
- Owners generally see 2% battery degradation a year, though 3% is considered high.
- VW offers five trim options, but all models have rear-wheel drive.
- Owners had two types of service experiences: competent dealers that resolve all issues, or long waits and unknowledgeable dealerships.
