Volkswagen is planning a significant overhaul of its ID.3 and ID.4 electric models, set for release in 2026. These updated versions will feature a completely new design language, reflecting a shift toward a more traditional look, inspired by the ID.2All concept. Although these models will retain the same MEB platform as the current ones, major updates will be made to their design, technology, and interiors. This “reskin” will be part of Volkswagen’s broader strategy to refine its electric vehicle lineup and return to design elements that align more closely with the brand’s heritage.
According to Kai Grünitz, VW’s development boss, the new design will mark a departure from the existing ID models, with a return to a “two-box silhouette” and simpler design features that reflect Volkswagen’s roots. This redesign is led by Andy Mindt, Volkswagen’s design head, whose first major project is the production version of the ID.2All. The company aims to enhance the overall sense of solidity in the new cars, something that had been somewhat lacking in the initial ID models.
In addition to the design changes, Volkswagen plans to improve battery performance and reduce costs, which should benefit customers by enhancing the overall value of the ID.3 and ID.4. New features, including updated driver assistance systems, will also be introduced. The company is positioning these improvements as part of a larger strategy to make their electric cars more attractive to a broader customer base, with a focus on better performance and affordability.
Another major change for the updated ID.3 and ID.4 will be the interior, which will be redesigned with a focus on better quality and more intuitive interfaces. One notable shift will be the return of physical buttons on the dashboard and center console, inspired by the ID.2All concept. This marks a departure from the more minimalist, touchscreen-focused interiors of previous ID models, responding to customer feedback for more tactile controls.
While the MEB platform will continue to underpin these new models, it will be improved to offer better performance, though it will retain some key elements like the rear-drive layout and multi-link rear suspension. The more affordable MEB Entry models will feature simpler rear suspension systems and front-mounted motors. The launch of the updated ID.3 and ID.4 in 2026 aligns with Volkswagen’s typical seven-year product cycle, but it doesn’t mark the end of the MEB platform. The development of the SSP platform, which will eventually replace MEB, continues, with the first models using this new platform expected to arrive in 2027.