Volkswagen ID.3 Video Review

The ID.3 is the long-awaited first taster of Volkswagen's new electric identity but does it live up to its high expectations? 

Highlights

Funky design

Spacious interior

Impressive range

85%

Overall rating

Infotainment could be better

Interior not as good as a Golf

Larger ID.4 is tempting

Interior Gallery

Space & Practicality

Rating

It's quite a substantial car in the metal. They've managed to create more boot space than what you get in a Golf (albeit very slightly at 385 litres Vs the Golf's 380). It feels a bit more spacious inside thanks to plenty of glass and a wonderfully clutter-free cabin. There's room for three in the back quite comfortably and the flat floor means a little extra legroom for the middle seat passenger.

Equipment and Safety

Rating

Trim levels are vast to say the least (seven different versions available on our last count) so there really is something for everyone. Standard equipment level is as generous as you would expect with highlights including adaptive cruise control, a speed limiter, some nice safety kit including lane keep assist and driver alert, voice control, parking sensors, and built-in SatNav. 

Performance & Running Costs

Rating

The WLTP range is 400km, which translates to around 320 - 350km in real life, depending greatly on driving conditions and driving style. Energy consumption seems consistent for the most part, with a slightly faster range depletion on a steep climb or at motorway speeds. The drive itself is hugely enjoyable with an instant burst of constantly available power (equivalent to about 204hp) and a nicely balanced set-up for a very 'normal' feeling drive. 

Reliability & Residuals

Rating

Too early to comment on but build quality feels solid and guarantees are reassuring. 

Facts & Figures

Car Tested: Volkwagen ID.3 1st

Car Tested Price: €33,715 (inc. grants)

Starting Price

€32,770

Fuel Economy

WLTP range: 400km

0 - 100kms

7.3s

Power

204hp

Emissions

0g/km

Tax

€120

Seats

5

Isofix

2 points

Bootspace

385l

NCAP safety rating

5 stars

About the author

About The Author image for Sinead McCann
Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives