- Volkswagen reveals ID.3 GTX and GTX Performance
- Up to 322 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque
- WLTP-estimated range of 373 miles
Volkswagen has given the GTX treatment to its smallest electric car, the ID.3, creating an all-electric rear-wheel drive hot hatch with up to 322 hp. It follows the ID.7 GTX Tourer that was also revealed this week.
Two variants will be offered – standard and Performance – to provide different power levels. Both have been decked out with sporty accessories and promise high levels of efficiency and an impressive (WLTP-rated) range. As a hot hatch, it should be talented in the dynamics department, and VW promises this as well as a feature-rich interior with the latest technology and safety systems.
More Power Than VW’s Strongest Turbo V6 Engine
The ID.3 GTX receives a rear axle-mounted electric motor that develops 282 hp and 402 lb-ft of torque. A Performance variant bumps power up to 322 horses, making this electric hatch more potent than a Golf R and even most of VW’s turbocharged V6 engines.
Despite these strong power figures, the ID.3 GTX isn’t as quick as expected. The base model reaches 62 mph in six seconds flat, while the Performance version gets there 0.4 seconds sooner. These are early estimates, so we may see more impressive figures later. As a reminder, the Golf GTI and R reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and just over four seconds, respectively.
Still, Volkswagen says the ID.3 GTX delivers blistering acceleration thanks to the immediate response of the electric drive motor. The top speed of the GTX is 111 mph, while the Performance is limited to 124 mph.
Razor-Sharp Handling
Volkswagen has made several revisions to ensure the GTX is more exciting to drive than the regular ID.3. A progressive steering system has been adapted for more precise steering inputs. The front end uses a MacPherson setup, while the rear is a multi-link suspension system that should provide superior comfort, stability, and handling. The GTX receives stiffer stabilizers and model-specific tuning.
The Performance variant receives the DCC adaptive chassis control system as standard, which is operated via the Vehicle Dynamics Manager. Using the latest software, the system better understands how the wheels and vehicle body are moving and can adjust the shock absorbers accordingly. The driver can choose between four drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, or Individual.
Volkswagen can now offer its customers a hot hatch with front-wheel drive (Golf GTI), rear-wheel drive (ID.3 GTX), and all-wheel drive (Golf R).
Battery, Claimed Range, And Efficiency
The GTX models have a new 79 kWh (nett energy content) lithium-ion battery. Based on WLTP estimates, Volkswagen claims the electric hot hatch can travel 373 miles between trips to the charging station, which is impressive. Should the ID.3 GTX arrive in the US (unlikely), we would expect more realistic EPA estimates.
Charging has been made easier than before, thanks to the addition of thermal management functionality that conditions the battery ahead of charging. This means the battery is at the desired temperature when it reaches the charging station, allowing quicker charging and reduced waiting times. There’s also an Electric Vehicle Route Planner, making planning longer trips easier.
When plugged into a DC charging station, the ID.3 GTX can charge at speeds of up to 175 kWh, replenishing the battery pack from 10-80% in about 26 minutes.
Sporty Design Previews Future Electric GTI
The ID.3 GTX receives a unique front bumper with an A-shaped air intake cited beneath the front license placeholder. A diamond-style pattern lends the fascia subtle aggression and is supported by arrow-shaped daytime-running lights. LED matrix headlights are standard, and are connected via a slim LED strip.
Moving along the sides of the vehicle, the biggest difference is the 20-inch Skagen wheels with a diamond-cut finish (black is optional). On the standard GTX, they’re wrapped in 215 tires, while the Performance benefits from wider 235 rubber. At the rear, you’ll find a GTX-specific diffuser with the same diamond pattern. LED taillights form part of the package, including dynamic turn signals and a classy night light design.
Five colors, including the radiant Kings Red Metallic seen here, are available: Moonstone Grey, Grenadilla Black Metallic, Glacier White Metallic, and Scale Silver Metallic. Sporty high-gloss black trim replaces any matte black or chrome exterior embellishments.
Interior Is A Blend Of Sportiness And The Latest Tech
Step inside the ID.3 GTX, and you’ll find supportive sports seats trimmed in a combination of recycled ‘Lurus’ fabric and leatherette. The black seats receive a dash of color thanks to red stitching, piping, and contrast seams. Customers can also opt for the ergoActive seats with power adjustment, integrated headrests, and adjustable thigh support. These receive ArtVelours Eco microfleece upholstery, and detailing in a unique red that is a combination of Tornado Red and Flash Red, early Golf GTI colors. The steering wheel has a red six o’clock marker, stitching, and chromed GTX lettering.
The ID.3 GTX will use a 12.9-inch infotainment system that now offers ChatGPT functionality as part of the onboard IDA voice assistant. An augmented reality head-up display and a Wellness app will be available at extra cost.
Sadly, the ID.3 GTX probably won’t be offered in the United States. In 2027, however, we can expect the ID. GTI concept to come to life as the electric GTI successor.