Volkswagen ID.3 gets its Gen.2 update

The all-electric Volkswagen ID.3 hatchback is officially in its second generation now, although the scope of changes frankly makes it look like a mild facelift.

There is a new front bumper with large air intakes and no more perforation that used to be a signature design trait of the ID lineup. The hood sports concave areas, and the overall appearance is a tad sportier. The headlights boast new LED patterns, and new options were added to the available finishes and wheel designs.

The interior layout stays unchanged, but Volkswagen claims it made numerous small improvements based on customer feedback. The door panels are new, for example, and the armrests larger than before. There are new upholstery options as well, notably including a fabric called Artvelours Eco, which consists of 71% recycled material. The name of the model now sits on the air vents in the middle.

Like before, the screens measure 5.3 and 12 inches across, but the infotainment system gains access to new features and benefits from a more ergonomic UI. The driver gets more assists, notably including a self-parking system that can memorize and reproduce certain routes.

Things stay stock under the hood. The only electric motor available makes 204 PS (201 hp / 150 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) lasts 7.3 seconds, and the top speed is capped at 160 km/h (99 mph). Two traction batteries rated at 58 and 77 kWh yield 426 and 546 km (265 and 340 miles) of range, respectively.

Later on, the modernized ID.3 may go on sale in cheaper versions equipped with smaller battery packs, but there are no details yet.

The sales will begin in late 2023.