Those waiting for a breakthrough on usable range before jumping into EV ownership probably won’t jump too hard at the Volkswagen ID 3, but it does represent progress.
Our test car, with the mid- range 58kWh battery, returned real- world touring-test energy economy of 3.4mpkWh so would put a whisker under 200 miles between charges at a UK-typical 60-70mph cruise. If the 77kWh version got within 10% of the same efficiency, you could expect just under 250 miles at motorway speed, rising no doubt to nearer 300 at a slower cruise. Not bad – especially considering the chilly temperatures in which we tested the car.
Many car makers are pruning their trim levels but VW seems to have other ideas. The ID 3 range opens in £31,670 Life spec, then progresses through Business, Family, Tech and Max before culminating in the £42,290 Tour, for which you’re still cheekily expected to pay an extra £219 for a 230V charging cable.
In fairness, equipment levels are high across the board – even for the basic ID 3 Life – and you can subtract the government-funded £2500 from those list prices for all sub-£35,000 versions.
The aim is clearly to offer as broad a spread of forms an ID 3 can take as possible, and thus cannily cater to both those considering a sub-£30,000 Nissan Leaf and those who like the look of the entry-level Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, as well as everybody in between. However, the ID 3 seems better value at the foot of the range, where LED headlights, heated seats (and steering wheel), adaptive cruise control and the 10.0in infotainment system are all standard.
