Neues Sportabzeichen: Der VW ID.3 wird als GTI zum Elektrosportler

Just half a year after VW's ID.3 facelift, the company is again introducing a sportier model in its electric lineup. Instead of the previous GTX, the compact power package is now marketed as a GTI, the manufacturer announced. Exact pricing has not been disclosed yet, but officials have stated they aim to keep the prices "under 50,000 euros."

The most expensive ID.3 Neo, priced at 170 kW/231 PS, is currently listed at 47,595 euros. The switch to the GTI label is emphasized by the traditional GTI insignia, ranging from the fiery red color to the grey checkerboard seat covers. More importantly, the developers have tailored the technology for the electronically regulated suspension, programming a more aggressive setting and recalibrating the steering.

The most significant change, however, is the engine: the ID.3 is now the strongest series model to bear the GTI logo, with 240 kW/326 PS. This makes the five-door accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and limits it to 200 km/h before electronically clipping the power. The range is expected to be around 600 kilometers. VW doesn't give the driver many breaks: the bottom of the GTI houses the 79 kWh battery of the series, promising a standard range of 601 kilometers.

Even then, the driving times have been shorter since the facelift. Finally, VW has increased the maximum charging power to 183 kW.