Think of the ID.3 GTX as Volkswagen’s answer to those who want their electric car to be more than just sensible and efficient. It’s essentially the performance-tuned sibling of the regular ID.3, bringing some extra excitement to VW’s electric hatchback lineup. If you’re browsing for a lively compact EV with a bit of flair, and models like the MG4 XPower or Tesla Model 3 leave you curious but not committed, this one deserves a look.

Performance

The GTX badge isn’t just for show. Volkswagen has given the ID.3 some serious bite. It now features the latest rear-mounted ‘APP550’ motor, dishing out 286hp as standard, or 326hp if you go for the beefier GTX Performance version. That power translates into brisk acceleration, 0–100km/h in just 6.0 or 5.6 seconds depending on the spec, putting it firmly in hot hatch territory.

Handling’s been tightened up too. With revised dampers and progressive steering, the ID.3 GTX feels sharper and more planted, whether you’re navigating twisty roads or just running some errands. The Performance model adds adaptive chassis tech with multiple drive modes to tailor the ride to your mood.

Range and Charging

With a larger 79kWh battery pack, the GTX delivers a claimed range of around 600km, plenty for most Irish commutes or weekend getaways. DC fast charging is also on point, with a max speed of 175kW. And thanks to an intelligent battery pre-conditioning system, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time driving.

Design and Interior

The GTX version gets the sporty makeover you’d expect. A redesigned front bumper, arrowhead LED lights, and sleek 20-inch alloys help it stand out, while red stitching and GTX branding add a touch of performance-inspired style to the cabin.

Inside, the cabin is comfortable, spacious, and well thought out. There’s room for five now, a welcome change from earlier big-battery ID.3 models that had only two rear seats. The boot remains a decent size at 385 litres, and with everything packed under the floor, there’s no compromise on passenger space.

A tech update also brings VW’s IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT integration, letting you control features or find info just by asking. Need a weather update or to adjust the cabin temp? Just speak up.

Cost Considerations

Pricing for the Volkswagen ID.3 GTX in Ireland starts from approximately €43,585, with the higher-spec GTX Performance model nudging closer to €45,585. That’s before grants or incentives, which can help bring the price down for eligible buyers. While it's certainly on the premium end of the scale for a hatchback, you're getting strong performance, a big battery, and a serious tech offering.

Running costs should be low, thanks to its electric nature, and VW's solid reputation helps with long-term peace of mind. Just be aware that optional extras can rack up quickly if you're tempted by upgraded interiors or extra tech.

Verdict

The ID.3 GTX is a welcome evolution in VW’s EV journey. It finally gives the ID.3 some proper character, adding performance and personality to the mix without sacrificing the practicality that made the original appealing. While it’s not the cheapest way to go electric, it’s definitely one of the more engaging. If you’re after a well-rounded electric hatch with punch and polish, this is worth a test drive.