Volkswagen ID 3: five reasons why we love it…and five why we loathe it

There are plenty of electric cars to choose from in the C-segment hatchback class, from more affordable entry-level options to more premium models with the latest tech and software. The Volkswagen ID 3 is a key player in the EV category and has recently undergone a mid-life update to fend off rivals like the Cupra Born, MG 4 and Kia Niro EV.

The fresh-faced VW ID 3 is the brand’s second best-selling car in the range, behind the combined sales of the ID 4 and ID 5. But what makes the ID 3 shine and are there any features or characteristics that let it down?

We LOVE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

It has an excellent range that puts it well ahead of its closest competitors. The entry-level model can travel up to 266 miles on a charge, but the range-topping Pro S model can do even with a battery, with a claimed range of up to 347 miles. 

That’s better than the technically related Cupra Born (341 miles) and the MG 4 Trophy Extended Range (323 miles). And you can charge the ID 3 at up to speeds of 170kW, which allows for a 5-80% charge in 30 minutes.

We LOATHE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

The infotainment system is pretty poor and suffers from a frustrating amount of lag. Volkswagen planned to bring its new 10.0in Discover Pro Navigation infotainment system to the new facelifted model, but annoyingly this won’t be introduced until next year. 

The system is powered by the firm’s 3.5 software, but it's glitchy and has the same loading issues as the previous model. Over-the-air updates are set to improve things. 

We LOVE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

It’s surprisingly capacious inside and offers the same level of practicality as the Golf. Front space is excellent and there is plenty of room for six-footers, with a good amount of head and leg room.

The same can be said for the rear, too, with enough space for taller passengers to find a comfortable seating position. Head and leg room are less abundant but it's ideal for this type of EV. 

We LOATHE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

It’s pricier than its rivals – and in some cases by a big margin. The Pro S model with the bigger range starts from £42,870 in the UK, which makes it £4475 more than the mid-level Cupra Born with the 77kWh battery. 

The MG 4 Extended Range is also cheaper, costing £6375 less than the Volkswagen. 

We LOVE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

It handles and drives well, especially around town. The throttle response is keen and natural, and at lower speeds the acceleration is immediate and smooth. 

The steering is direct, albeit with a lightness to its feel. Grip levels are good too and when up to higher speeds it cruises along nicely. And thanks to the ID 3’s electric motor being mounted on the rear, it puts its power down better than some of its front-driven rivals. 

We LOATHE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

Interior quality is not up to the standards we have come to expect of the German car giant. The 2023 facelift was a step-forward compared to the original model, but it’s still full of cheap materials. 

The centre console is a particular grip and is clearly made from cheap scratchy plastics. It’s behind its rivals here, and even the Tesla Model 3, which isn’t known for its build quality, feels nicer inside. 

We LOVE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

You get a good amount of equipment as standard which helps to somewhat justify its high price tag. Even the entry-level is well-kitted out, with 18in alloy wheels, electrically heated and folding side mirrors, heated windscreen washer jets, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, wireless phone-charging, adaptive cruise control and dual-zone air conditioning. 

Move up to the Pro S trim and you get a larger 77kWh, 19in alloy wheels and leatherette seats with electric adjustment. Options include the Exterior Pack Plus and a heat pump. 

We LOATHE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

While the driving experience has some positives, the ride can feel busy on more unkempt roads, and while it doesn’t feel uncomfortable, it does move around more in your seat, with a sharper jolt when you drive over potholes.

And while the rear-drive setup affords a greater level of grip out of corners, it's no more fun or dynamic as a normal front-driven hatchback. 

We LOVE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

Alongside its spacious cabin, you also get a good-sized boot. While it’s not as big as the Nissan Leaf’s, the ID 3 still offers up to 385-litres of boot space, which is good enough for a couple of suitcases or a weekly shop. 

Add the inexpensive height-adjustable boot floor, which reduces the load lip and gives you a flat floor if the rear seats are folded down. 

We LOATHE the Volkswagen ID 3 because…

Isolation from road and wind noise could be a little better. The electric motor is nice and quiet, but there's a hint of suspension and road noise.

Wind noise meanwhile is a real gripe, with much of it whistling through the vents in the dash. We’re being picky but it is noticeable.