Volkswagen is making ready to release a 282bhp scorching model of the ID 3 that may function an electrical identical to the Golfing GTI.

The electrical scorching hatchback builds on plans first aired by way of Volkswagen with the disclosing of the smaller ID GTI thought on the Munich motor display in September final yr, with distinctive external styling touches, an upgraded inner and a revised drivetrain providing considerably extra energy and torque than current ID 3 fashions. 

Noticed right here in prototype shape present process chilly climate trying out, the impending range-topping ID 3 has two-wheel force, like each and every Volkswagen that has worn the hallowed GTI badge over the last 5 many years. 

Alternatively, as a substitute of being front-wheel force, this newest wearing type can have rear-wheel force, consistent with each and every different ID 3. 

Even if Volkswagen’s earlier control to start with hinted at a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive GTX model of the ID 3 at its release in 2019, present CEO Thomas Schäfer has due to this fact denied that the company harbours plans for one of these type. 

That is partially owing to the price of re-engineering this model of the MEB platform to just accept a front-mounted electrical motor – as is imaginable in better MEB-based EVs. 

Autocar understands that the GTX identify might be used for the new ID 3, despite the fact that it’s been prior to now reserved for four-wheel-drive EVs. 

Technical main points stay scarce forward of the ID 3 GTX’s deliberate creation in 2024. Alternatively, the brand new EV is anticipated to characteristic Volkswagen’s considerably extra robust APP550 motor rather than the ID 3’s current APP310 unit.

As deployed within the new ID 7 saloon and extended-wheelbase ID Buzz, the brand new APP550 motor options revised cooling measures, new windings and a extra environment friendly inverter, amongst different key adjustments. In its preliminary shape, it delivers 282bhp and 402lb toes of torque – an 81bhp and 173lb toes build up at the maximum robust ID 3 type on sale lately, the Professional S.