What is it?
Volkswagen’s ID.3 is already making waves in the market, with the firm’s newest EV impressing thanks to its good build quality, refined driving experience and high-tech interior. Needless to say, Volkswagen isn’t just keeping that refined to one specification which brings us to this range-topping Pro Performance model. Offering additional pace as well as more electric range, the Pro Performance could be a great choice for those EV drivers who want to travel further afield.
What’s new?
As we’ve already seen, the ID.3 brings a whole new way of doing things for Volkswagen. It’s got a fresh face, an innovative interior and a brand new MEB platform that helps to maximise space without going overboard on exterior dimensions. As a tip-top version, the Pro Performance - here in ‘Family’ specification - adds a load of standard equipment, with a wide variety of assistance systems helping to make the ID.3 as connected - and safe - as possible.
What’s under the bonnet?
The ID.3 Pro Performance uses a 150kW electric motor linked to a 58kWh motor. Together, they help to power the ID.3 from 0-60mph in 7.1 seconds before topping out at 99mph. Power is sent to the rear wheels alone, too.
But range is the name of the game here and in that sense, the ID.3 does well. Volkswagen claims it’ll return up to 260 miles between charges, while thanks to 100kW rapid charging, taking it from 0-80 per cent could take as little as half an hour. Connect to a 7.2kW home charger and a full charge will take nine and a half hours - so ideal for overnight stops.
What’s it like to drive?
The ID.3 is pleasantly hassle-free to drive. There’s no key to turn and there’s no need to press a button to start it, either, despite the inclusion of one. Just keep the key in your pocket, jump in and select drive - and you’re away. Gathering speed is quick and seamless thanks to instant power delivery, while a good level of refinement means the ID.3 stays hushed - though the large wheels tend to generate a bit of noise. The steering is light and easy, while there’s more than enough punch to ensure that overtakes can be completed swiftly.
How does it look?
The ID.3’s styling isn’t what you’d call controversial. It’s easy to tell that it’s a Volkswagen - particularly given the large badges at front and rear - but it feels like the ID.3 has been made to look as unobtrusive as possible to allow it to blend into everyday traffic. That’s not to say it’s boring. The gloss black panel on the boot is a cool touch, while the headlights and full-width LED bar at the front look particularly good at night.
What’s it like inside?
The interior of the ID.3 is much like the exterior - clean and fuss-free. There’s an absence of any buttons, which helps to give the car’s interior an uncluttered appearance. You’ve got a nice combination of materials, while the lack of any transmission tunnel ensures that there’s plenty of legroom for those in the back. When it comes to boot space, the ID.3 offers 385 litres - which is more than you get in a Golf, in fact.
What’s the spec like?
The basic on-the-road price of the ID.3 in Pro Performance Family specification is £32,460 after the government’s plug-in car grant has been applied. For that, you get Volkswagen’s Discover Pro Navigation system with a 10-inch screen connected to a six-speaker sound system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included too. Elsewhere, you’ve got 18-inch alloy wheels, Volkswagen’s high-power IQ. Light headlights and LED rear light clusters with their own in-built animations which activate on start-up.
Verdict
We’ve already seen how accomplished the ID.3 is, so this extended range version does add to the appeal. Certainly, those who are fond of travelling a little further will appreciate the added miles that the Pro Performance brings, while the ability to charge at quick speeds helps even more. For those looking to swap over to an EV, the ID.3 will make an excellent place to start.
Why not look at our other Volkswagen ID.3 review - Volkswagen ID.3