Volkswagen’s Debut Electric Hot Hatch: The 322-HP ID.3 GTX

Powerful Rear-Wheel-Drive EV with VW’s Latest Electric Motor

After much anticipation, Volkswagen has made its entrance into the realm of electric hot hatch cars with the ID.3 GTX. This model is closely related to the Cupra Born VZ and offers two different versions: a standard GTX and a high-performance GTX Performance equipped with the most potent electric motor ever created by VW.The debut of the ID.3 GTX marks a significant step for Volkswagen towards electrification, as it combines the brand’s signature sporty design with innovative electric technology. The two variants offer different levels of power, with the GTX Performance boasting the most robust electric motor ever developed by VW.Although the base model provides adequate performance, the GTX Performance takes things up a notch with its electrifying acceleration and top speed. With VW’s extensive experience in motorsports, the car promises an exhilarating driving experience.Aside from its powerful electric motor, the GTX also features a striking design that sets it apart from its gasoline-powered siblings. The sleek lines, contoured body, and distinctive LED lighting give the car a modern and dynamic appearance.Volkswagen has also made sure to equip the ID.3 GTX with the latest cutting-edge technology, such as a digital cockpit and advanced driving assistance systems. These features not only enhance the driving experience but also promote safety on the road

By opting for the standard ID.3 GTX, you’ll receive an electric motor situated on the back axle and a generous measure of 282 horsepower and 402 pound-feet of torque. Optimal performance can be attained by choosing the Performance variant, which boosts the horsepower to 322, while maintaining the same torque. As expected, these enhanced power numbers align perfectly with those of the Cupra Born VZ.

The standard GTX version of the hot hatch with rear-wheel drive can reach 62 miles per hour from a complete stop in six seconds, while the GTX Performance variant shaves off 0.4 seconds with a time of 5.6 seconds. Both models have an electronically limited top speed of 111 mph and 124 mph, respectively. Volkswagen claims that the more robust option serves as an electrifying counterpart to the front-wheel-drive Golf GTI Clubsport.

The two GTX models have a common lithium-ion battery pack with an effective capacity of 79 kilowatt-hours. It has the capability to charge through DC at a swift 175 kilowatts, resulting in a recharge time from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 26 minutes. The ID.3 GTX variants are expected to have a range of 373 miles on a single charge in the combined WLTP cycle. For optimal balance, the battery is situated in the center of the vehicle’s floor.

Similar to its siblings, the ID.3 GTX and ID.5 GTX, Volkswagen has given the ID.3 GTX a boost of excitement with a revamped front bumper featuring a larger air intake and diamond-shaped pattern. Boomerang shaped LEDs have been added as daytime running lights, adding a sleek touch. Moving to the rear, the performance model boasts a diffuser coated in glossy black, complementing the dark mirror caps, side sills, and window frame. The GTX also sports new 20-inch wheels equipped with 215-section tires, while the GTX Performance has wider 235-section rubber.

The inside features many noticeable red highlights. This includes dynamic front seats with built-in headrests that can be adjusted electrically, along with GTX emblems and a sustainable fabric. For all versions of the ID.3, a fresh 12.9-inch screen for infotainment and a separate lever on the steering column for selecting driving modes are present. In a long-awaited change, the volume and AC touch sliders are now illuminated, drawing similarities to the just-released Golf Mk8.5.

As far as we are aware, the ID.3 GTX will not be making its way to the United States. However, in Europe, it is considered to be in the same category as the Cupra Born VZ. While there is no direct competition, a close contender would be the MG4 XPower which boasts two motors, four-wheel drive, and an impressive 429 horsepower. Additionally, other smaller electric vehicles worth noting include the Abarth 500e and the upcoming Alpine A290. Before the year comes to an end, we can also expect to see a John Cooper Works (JCW) edition of the new Mini Cooper 3-Door.

Volkswagen has already hinted at the possibility of the ninth-generation Golf, which will be solely electric, taking over the ID.3 in the future, as there is no room for both models in their lineup. This means that the GTX will become the new GTI, as the German automaker is determined to keep the iconic three letters. In fact, they have even registered a new logo featuring a lightning bolt in place of the “I,” which traditionally stood for injection.

Source: Volkswagen