Facelifted VW ID.3 with updated look and software to start from £37,115
Improved interior and infotainment system address previous customer complaints
The facelifted version of the VW ID.3, which comes with a revived look and updated software, will start from £37,115 in the UK.
It comes following dissatisfaction among some customers because of the outgoing car’s infotainment system and interior build quality, which prompted the firm to update the car a full year ahead of schedule.
While the initial modifications may not be immediately apparent, a closer inspection reveals updated headlights and tail-light clusters with an arch-shaped design that incorporates X-shaped brake lights.
Additionally, cars equipped with Matrix-LED headlights now feature an animation that greets and bids farewell to the driver as they approach and exit the vehicle.
The front bumper is also said to have a more defined appearance.
Substantial changes to the interior meanwhile include a complete transition to animal-free materials, with many using a large amount of recycled materials.
The lower portions of the dashboard have been redesigned too with a new soft surface, and there are fresh door handrests, seat covers, and door trims.
Since the outgoing ID.3 faced significant criticism regarding its digital and driver interfaces, the new version has a smoother, and easier to navigate information system with full support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Navigation has also been improved to schedule charging stops more efficiently for longer trips.
When the updated ID.3 becomes available for purchase in the UK in the coming months, only the 10-inch infotainment screen will be offered, as the car’s layout of the dashboard has not changed for right-hand drive cars which enables space for the 12-inch screen.
VW says cars equipped with the larger screen, which can be found in the recently unveiled ID.7 saloon, will arrive next year.
In terms of specifications, the base Pro model incorporates a 58kWh battery for a WLTP range of 262 miles, while the Pro S, priced at £42,870, has a larger 77kWh battery for a range of 347 miles.
Currently, the ID.3 can only be had with a rear-mounted motor which makes 201bhp and 310Nm of torque, enough to launch the car from 0 to 62mph in 7.3 seconds. Its top speed is 99mph, though there are plans for a faster, more aggressive version next year, called the ID.3 X, which is rumoured to make around 295bhp.