Volkswagen ID.3 Neo: well listened to feedback
Volkswagen ID.3 a sales success
After 630,000 units produced in more than five years, 24,000 of them for the Dutch market, Volkswagen is changing its name to ID.3 Neo. The model follows the so-called Pure Positive design language. With this, designer Andreas Mindt and his team focus on the familiar design elements of previous models, and connect this to more recent electric cars from the brand, such as the ID. Polo and the ID. Cross.
The car was modified in several ways. The ID.3 Neo features a modified front end and a different light design with narrower headlights, a continuous light bar and an illuminated brand logo. The version with IQ.LIGHT LED depends on the version selected. The horizontal lines in the bumper emphasize the visual width. Seen from the side, the body-colored accents provide a different optical length compared to the previous model. The rear is also now painted in body color instead of black.
Interior thoroughly modified
While the exterior is an evolution, the interior has been redesigned in several areas. The wheelbase has remained unchanged from the previous iteration. The layout of the cockpit and center console has been changed based on user feedback, focusing on controls and haptics. Soft materials and a horizontal layout have been used. The steering wheel includes physical, illuminated push buttons and an illuminated logo, while the buttons on the center console have also been ergonomically modified. Also, four separate buttons for window controls have again been placed in the driver’s door.
The digital instrument cluster (Digital Cockpit) has been replaced by a 10.25-inch screen. This offers several display options, including a screen layout that references the instrument panel of the first-generation Golf. The Innovision infotainment system features an integrated app store for functions focused on audio, video, charging and parking. The tablet-style central touchscreen follows the design line of other recent models from the brand. The ID.3 Neo uses a current software version. The VW Connect package is included for ten years. This now includes items that were previously part of VW Connect Plus, such as voice assistant IDA with ChatGPT integration, navigation software, the Digital Key, charging services and several remote functions.
Powertrains Volkswagen ID.3 Neo
The manufacturer is positioning the ID.3 Neo as a model that should make electric driving accessible to a broad target group, including people considering electric cars for the first time. The model utilizes the MEB+ architecture, which aims for more efficient consumption and a corresponding range for longer trips.
The car can be ordered with three different engine outputs: 125 kW (170 hp), 140 kW (190 hp) and 170 kW (231 hp). In addition, three battery packages are available. The 50 kWh package offers a WLTP range of 416 kilometers, the 58 kWh package comes to 492 kilometers and the 79 kWh version achieves 629 kilometers. Charging via fast charger is possible up to 105 kW for the smaller battery packs (50 and 58 kWh) and up to 183 kW for the 79 kWh package. Charging time from 10 to 80 percent is 26 to 29 minutes.
The vehicle is equipped for making long trips. The available technology supports the driver in this. For example, the route planner takes current traffic data into account when scheduling charging sessions. Optional ergoActive front seats with a massage function are available, as well as a head-up display with augmented reality. This display can also show navigation instructions from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Furthermore, adaptive suspension control is available at extra cost.
Driving assistance systems
The ID.3 Neo has several driving assistance systems, some of which are newly installed. Connected Travel Assist uses data from other vehicles and can respond to traffic lights, allowing the car to automatically stop at red lights. One-pedal-drive is now standard equipment, allowing the driver to brake by releasing the power pedal. The car also supports vehicle-to-load and a digital car key. Vehicle-to-load allows the vehicle to provide power to external devices via an adapter, which can be used for charging electric bikes. The digital key allows unlocking and starting the car with a smartphone or smartwatch.
Various versions
At market launch, the ID.3 Neo is available in three trims: Trend, Life and Style. The Trend version includes voice assistant with ChatGPT, App Connect Wireless for smartphone integration, Keyless Start, adaptive cruise control, automatic air conditioning and parking sensors all around. The Life trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control, a rearview camera and a proactive occupant safety system. The Style version features IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, illuminated logos on the front and rear and on the steering wheel, and Dynamic Light Assist control. In addition, this version has an alarm system, ambient lighting in thirty colors, ID. Light and sport seats with integrated headrests.
Presale
At the end of April, pre-sales will start and the exact equipment details, specifications and starting prices will be communicated. The car comes with 5 years of maintenance and an 8-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty on the battery pack. Production of the car will take place at the German plants in Zwickau and Emden.