Could the VW ID.3 be your first EV or the only used EV you could consider buying?
Since its launch, Volkswagen’s ID3 has established itself in the real world, maturing beyond its star-studded debut. Billed as the “Golf for an EV world,” the ID.3 set out to bring a familiar sense to a battery-powered platform. Now, several years into its lifecycle, what have we learned about the ID.3 and should you buy one?
Driving Dynamics ID3 Review: Balanced, Yet Reserved
The Golf has always struck a harmonious balance between everyday usability and driver engagement. The ID.3 stepped away from the VW playbook with its rear-mounted electric motor and rear-wheel-drive layout. Becoming a car that handles with a composure that feels purposeful, rather than playful. It benefits from a low center of gravity thanks to the underfloor battery pack maing it stable in the corners that you want to push a bit harder in, although it can only mask its weight over the Golf so far.
The VW ID3 prioritises smooth, predictable handling over outright engagement, and that OK, most Golf buyers probably want something that performs best when used for everyday driving, rather than spirited backroad blasting. For spirited drivers, the ID.3’s steering might feel a touch too filtered. The initial kick of instant torque softens after the first few drives, so its better suited to making progress across a start stop city route than a flowing country lane. The new GTX is VW's attempt to bring a car to the enthusiast audience. The car is a big step towareds the connected feeling of a hot hatch like the Golf GTI, but it probably won't overshadow the new MK8.5 Golf GTI for now. However those that miss the fast diesels on their company car list may find the GTX the car they've been missing.
VW ID3 Trim and Interior: Minimalist, But Not Premium
We'll have to wait for Audi to move into this segment to what a premium or luxury cabin will become in the EV age, but the ID3 does a good job of giving us what we need. Those that are tech obsessed and desire a clean look to every surface will feel at home in the ID.3. Over the years, Volkswagen has expanded the ID.3’s trim lineup, adding variations that cater to different needs. The Life trim, at the entry level, covers essentials with a 10-inch infotainment display, adaptive cruise control, and LED headlights. Move up to Family, and you get dual-zone climate control and a panoramic sunroof, while the Max trim features extras like a head-up display and adaptive dampers for a more refined experience.
While the ID.3 is well-equipped, its interior feels somewhat basic, especially for Golf owners accustomed to higher trim finishes. The minimalist approach brings a spacious and modern feel, but the hard plastics in the cabin and the touch-sensitive controls have drawn mixed reviews from owners. The touch sliders for climate and volume, in particular, can feel cumbersome and frustrating to use while driving.
The ID.3 as a Used Buy: A Worthy Option?
The ID.3 has established itself in the used car market, and early ownership experiences offer a clearer picture of its strengths and weaknesses. Battery performance has held up well, and Volkswagen’s eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty provides peace of mind for used buyers. Software issues that affected early models have largely been ironed out through updates, so newer or updated examples are generally stable and reliable.
However, the ID.3’s interior trim and tech could be a sticking point, especially for those moving from a Golf. Lower trims can feel sparse, and higher trims often come at a premium on the used market, reducing the cost advantage of buying used. Those transitioning from a well-equipped Golf might want to aim for a higher ID.3 trim to avoid disappointment.
The Verdict: Is It a Golf Replacement?
After a few years on the road, the ID.3 has proven itself as a capable, practical electric vehicle. But Golf owners may find the driving experience and cabin quality lack some of the character they’re used to. However, some will find this change welcome and the electric car experience might be enough to excite Golf owners out of what they know and into an EV.
However, for those who relish the sharpness of a GTI or even the tactile comfort of a well-trimmed Golf, the ID.3 may feel like a different animal. The GTX models higher price and compromised drive in the exact areas the GTI excels will probably remain a barrier for now though.
For the VW enthusiast, the first rear-wheel drive hatchback and a car that will become a milestone moment for the brand in its history should mean there is less reasons to say no and more reasons to say yes to the ID.3.
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