2024 Volkswagen ID.3 upgraded again ahead of Oz debut

More than four years since it was launched in Europe, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.3 has received another upgrade ahead of the battery-electric hatchback’s launch in Australia later this year.

The second update in little more than 12 months, the latest revisions for the VW ID.3 include more power, faster charging, a new augmented reality head-up display, a ‘wellness’ app and a more powerful sound system.

Set to follow the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs that are due around mid-year, the ID.3’s latest tweaks aim to keep the battery-electric hatchback relevant in the fast-paced EV market.

The headline news is a boost to 170kW for the electric motor (+20kW), although confusingly in some markets that figure is wound back down to 150kW, with owners offered the chance to pay extra for an over-the-air (OTA) power upgrade.

With the extra oomph, the Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S can now launch from 0-100km in a claimed 7.1 seconds – 0.8sec quicker than before.

Efficiency has also improved, with the new electric motor combining with a 77kWh battery to now cover up to 559km on the WLTP test cycle (+13km).

The battery introduces a preconditioning function that sees it reach optimum temperature before charging. This allows it to now be charged at up to 175kW, with the preconditioning slashing charging times in colder climates.

Inside, the updated ID.3 features a larger 12.9-inch touch-screen that’s said to incorporate a more intuitive menu and a ChatGPT AI-powered onboard assistant, plus illuminated touch sliders.

The gear-lever has also been relocated as part of the update to a separate steering column switch that mimics the more Volkswagen ID.7.

Other improvements include a new head-up display that introduces augmented reality for clearer navigation instructions, a ‘wellness’ app that adjusts the lighting, sound and air-conditioning for Fresh Up, Calm Down and Power Break functions, and the option of a more powerful 480-watt Harman Kardon sound system.

Driver assist safety systems also now include exit warning, an updated optional park assist plus and upgraded semi-autonomous cruise control.

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