New Volkswagen ID.3 GTX: the electric hot hatch era takes off

• Performance-focused ID.3
• Up to 322bhp
• Unique sporty styling

Fancy a hot hatchback but think petrol is just too old-fashioned? Enter the new Volkswagen ID.3 GTX. As the sporty variant of the regular ID.3, the ID.3 GTX is the German marque’s first foray into the world of electric hot hatchbacks, adopting the new badge that first appeared on the ID.4 and ID.5 GTX performance SUVs.

Volkswagen is no stranger to the world of hot hatchbacks. The original Golf GTI from 1976 practically founded the genre, while the Golf GTD later added a diesel engine to the sporty formula. The Golf GTE introduced electrification with its hybrid system, but the new ID.3 GTX represents the first pure electric hatchback from the brand to get the performance treatment.

Volkswagen will be hoping the ID.3 GTX can replicate the success of its previous GT models in the electric age. As it stands, rivals are few and far between; the Abarth 500e and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N exist as its closest competitors, but both differ in terms of size and speed. The Cupra Born doesn’t get as much power – at least, not until the sporty VZ model arrives.

What do I need to know about the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX?

As the ID.3 GTX is first and foremost a performance car, let’s break down the important numbers. Unsurprisingly, horsepower is increased over the standard ID.3; regular GTX models get a 282bhp motor, while even sportier GTX ‘Performance’ models get 322bhp. For reference, the regular ID.3 and the latest Golf GTI make do with 201bhp and 261bhp respectively.

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Acceleration has improved as a result, with 0-62mph now accomplished in as little as 5.6 seconds for the GTX Performance. The regular GTX isn’t far behind, completing the same sprint in six seconds flat. Both models get a range of chassis tweaks to improve handling, while the GTX Performance benefits from Volkswagen’s DCC Adaptive Chassis Control, enabling the driver to soften or stiffen the suspension on the move.

Power is supplied by a 79kWh battery – the same unit found in the ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs, as well as the ID.7. Volkswagen claims a range of up to 373 miles could be possible, although this is yet to be officially WLTP tested. It’s compatible with charging speeds of up to 175kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge to be completed in around 26 minutes.

What does the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX look like?

In the same vein as the Golf GTI, the ID.3 GTX takes the regular car and adds a few minor styling enhancements to compliment its sportier performance. The front bumper is new, with a pair of angular daytime running lights – a styling trait that Volkswagen plans to use across all IDX models.

Elsewhere you’ll find new side skirts and a rear diffuser, both finished in gloss black paint. The 20-inch alloy wheels are new, too, and can be optioned in black to match those new styling elements. Buyers can choose between red, black, grey, white or silver for the rest of the bodywork.

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The interior is largely unchanged from the regular ID.3 save for the bucket seats, unique upholstery, red contrasting stitching and ‘GTX’ lettering on the backrests.

How much does the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX cost and when can I order one?

Volkswagen has not revealed UK pricing or availability information yet, but the GTX will sit at the top of the ID3 hierarchy when it arrives this year, so expect a price increase over the current range-topper.

Read our top 10 list of the best hot hatchbacks to see what the ID.3 GTX is up against…