Volkswagen ID.3 performance, top speed & motor

The Volkswagen ID.3 weighs around 1,700kg, so it’s quite a lot heavier than an equivalent petrol or diesel family hatchback. Thanks to well designed suspension and powerful motors, though, it does a good job of handling that extra bulk. Over bumpy country roads, the ID.3 is comfortable, even on large 19-inch wheels. Around town, where the potholes are bigger and the speeds are lower, it should still be smooth enough to keep anyone happy.

Volkswagen ID.3 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration

The 201bhp electric motor of the Pro Performance and Pro S drivetrains sees the ID.3 go from 0-62mph in under eight seconds. Most of that rush is in the initial sprint from 0-30mph, where the car feels eager and smooth. The less powerful Pure Performance and Pro drivetrains put out 148 and 143bhp respectively for 8.9 and 9.6-second 0-62mph times.

In all cases, acceleration starts to trail off as you get up to higher speeds, which is just the nature of electric motors, as they provide all their power from the start, rather than building up like combustion engines do. The top speed of all models is limited to 99mph as a result, but that’s irrelevant to UK drivers.

Handling

The Volkswagen ID.3 is good to drive, and a tight turning circle means it’s easy to park and move around city streets. The cabin is nice and quiet around town as well, with little road noise and that near-silent electric motor contributing to the serenity.

This isn't the most exciting car to drive, however, despite being a rear-wheel-drive model with over 200bhp in range-topping form. Instead, it’s solid, safe and easy to handle, rather than having any sporty pretensions. Still, the punchy performance means that there’s some fun to be had from behind the wheel. It leans in corners more than a Golf would, but it’s just as grippy and agile overall.