Volkswagen ID.3 Review 2022 | Drive, Specs & Pricing - Carwow

Following in the footsteps of the Beetle and Golf, the ID3 is the family car of the future - or at least, that’s what Volkswagen would have you believe. It looks smart, it’s spacious inside and it’s comfortable to drive, but alternative electric cars are cheaper to buy - and come with slicker infotainment systems.

It’s a bit like having Alexa announce that dinner’s ready, as opposed to texting everyone or yelling up the stairs. A classic family move, but for a new age.

Though it’s not the only future-proof family hatchback on sale, as it faces some compelling alternatives in the Renault Megane E-Tech and MG4, as well as SUV options such as the Skoda Elroq or the Kia EV3.

Volkswagen ID3: electric range, battery and charging data

Range: 261-369 milesEfficiency: 4.1-4.3 miles per kWhBattery size: 52kWh/ 58kWh / 77kWh / 79kWhMax charge speed: 120kW / 170kW / 185kWCharge time AC: 9hrs 30mins, 0-100%, 7kW / 12hrs 40mins, 0-100%, 7kWCharge time DC: 35mins, 5-80%, 120kW / 30mins, 5-80%, 170kWCharge port location: Right rearPower outputs: 170hp / 204hp / 326hp

The ID3 is a sleek car, if slightly understated compared to its alternatives. There’s a distinct futuristic vibe to its smooth, aero-optimised silhouette and minimalist front-and-rear ends. All models come with LED lights front and rear, while the two-tone paint finishes and fancy wheel options give some models a bit more edge to their styling.

The interior also looks futuristic, thanks to the slimmed-down dashboard and centre console, with a massive 12.9-inch infotainment display floating on top, plus a small driver’s display behind on the steering column. The lack of physical switchgear is annoying, as you’re forced to use the infotainment screen for every setting change.

While the shortcut touch bar for the heater controls is clearly laid out, it’s frustrating to use on the move, and the rest of the system isn’t clear to navigate.

Nonetheless, the ID3’s tall roofline and funky shape mean it’s spacious inside, with plenty of room for adults to get comfortable all round. You also get a 385-litre boot, which isn’t as big as some alternatives but still well sized - and a usefully square shape, too.