Ahead of its anticipated arrival in Australia, the Volkswagen ID.3 electric hatchback has undergone another significant update, introducing enhancements to both its interior technology and powertrain. The latest iteration of the Volkswagen ID.3 brings a host of improvements, including an updated infotainment system and a more potent electric motor for the Pro S variant, promising greater range, increased power, and faster charging capabilities.
Building on previous updates revealed in 2023, which focused on exterior refinements and expanded driver-assist features, Volkswagen continues to refine its electric offerings as it prepares to introduce its first MEB-based electric vehicles (EVs) to the Australian market.
Central to the latest update is the introduction of an advanced 12.9-inch touchscreen display featuring an upgraded menu structure, providing users with a more intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Furthermore, Volkswagen has introduced its latest IDA voice assistant, integrated with ChatGPT technology, enabling seamless control over various vehicle systems and access to general knowledge databases like Wikipedia.
For added comfort and convenience, the updated ID.3 incorporates a Wellness App that optimizes ambient lighting, sound settings, and air-conditioning to enhance passenger well-being during journeys or breaks, offering a range of customizable modes to suit individual preferences.
Inside, customers can opt for a premium 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system and a simplified multi-function steering wheel, further enhancing the driving experience. Beneath the surface, the ID.3 Pro S variant receives an upgraded electric motor, now delivering 170kW of power as standard in the German market, with the option to increase output from 150kW to 170kW post-purchase via a new function-on-demand feature.
Volkswagen claims impressive performance figures for the ID.3 Pro S, including a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.1 seconds and an extended range of 559km on the WLTP test cycle. Additionally, the Pro S model benefits from advanced charging and thermal management capabilities, enabling pre-conditioning of the battery before charging stops and facilitating up to 175kW of DC charging.
Furthermore, the updated ID.3 introduces an enhanced Electric Vehicle Route Planner, allowing for automatic battery pre-conditioning and the planning of routes with up to 10 charging stops via a smartphone app or web portal.
Safety remains a top priority, with the ID.3 retaining its suite of advanced driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, ensuring a safe and secure driving experience for all occupants.
