Volkswagen has unveiled the keenly anticipated ID 3 facelift hatchback, brought to market earlier than planned in reaction to well-publicised issues with the electric family hatchback’s software and interior quality. The facelifted VW ID 3, then, takes a major step forward with its software packages and quality of materials used along with some revisions to exterior design as well.

1. Outgoing versions of ID 3 suffered from quality issues
2. Minor cosmetic enhancements bring it up to date
3. Now available in two variants: Pro and Pro S

Volkswagen ID 3: was plagued by major issues

The problems that have plagued the ID 3 – concerning usage of the safety features and touch-sensitive icons, in addition to charging issues and range discrepancies – were so significant that they are widely rumoured to have been the reason for Herbert Diess stepping down as Volkswagen CEO last year. 

Software development delays led to early examples of the ID 3 using basic versions of the ID operating system, but this proved, according to company insiders, to be an “absolute disaster”. Volkswagen has since been trying to rectify the wide-ranging issues. As such, the updates were brought in just three-and-a-half years since the ID 3 was revealed at the last Frankfurt motor show.

Volkswagen ID 3 facelift: upgraded tech, features

Most notably, the ID 3 now features the latest generation of Volkswagen’s ID software package, with revised menus that are intended to reduce complexity and engender a smoother user experience.

It is displayed on a 12.0-inch central touchscreen, in place of the 10.0-inch unit fitted before. The optional cloud-based speech-recognition system has been upgraded to provide it with faster reaction times, while the head-up display now supports augmented reality functions first seen on the Volkswagen ID 4.

Higher-grade materials, such as better-quality plastic with revised graining on the lower section of the dashboard, make their way inside as well. Higher-specified models also receive new materials for the upper part of the dashboard.

Volkswagen ID 3 facelift: minor cosmetic updates

The ID 3’s exterior has been given a refresh, too, aimed at increasing the appeal of the hatchback. Among these is a reprofiled front bumper with vertical air ducts as well as a reshaped bonnet, the latter being an all-new pressing that does away with the black panel below the windscreen to give the ID 3 an elongated appearance and a slightly improved drag coefficient. The tail-light designs are all-new as well, including distinctive X-shaped daytime-running lights and refreshed scrolling indicators.

Volkswagen ID 3 facelift: powertrain details

The ID 3 is still based on the MEB platform and retains the same rear-mounted motor and batteries as before. However, in a bid to streamline production, the line-up has been reduced, with Pro and Pro S being the only specifications on offer.

With 207hp and 309Nm of torque outputs identical on both variants, the Pro and Pro S cars deliver 0-100kph times of 7.3 seconds and 7.7 seconds, respectively. The former features a 58kWh battery, giving it a range of 426km, and the latter a 77kWh pack for 545km. In line with changes made to the larger ID 4, Volkswagen has increased the ID 3’s maximum DC rapid-charging rate from 125kW to 170kW. 

Volkswagen says there are plans for a successor to the previous price-leading ID 3 Pure with a 150hp electric motor and a 45kWh battery, but it won’t form part of the initial facelifted line-up.