The ID 3 hasn't had the most auspicious start in life. Volkswagen's first dedicated electric model was delayed at launch due to problems with its software and lack of over-the-air (OTA) update capability, it has been roundly criticised for its lacklustre interior quality and charging niggles, and it has come under fire from a number of cheaper but better-equipped rivals.
But now, three-and-a-half years after its introduction, the rear-wheel-drive MPV-style hatchback has received a new lease of life with a mid-term facelift that aims to rectify its early weaknesses and further drive sales.
Among the changes is a light reworking of the exterior. It arguably gives the ID 3 a more cohesive appearance without many of the black plastic elements of the original model.
It's inside, though, where the model gains even more important updates. They include a new-look dashboard with a synthetic leather covering on the Pro S model, driven here, as well as higher-grade plastics and upholstery in other places.
There's now a standard 12.0in infotainment display in place of the previous 10.0in unit. It receives the latest software package and with it a new digital menu structure, higher resolution, faster response and more seamless operation. However, to our dismay, Volkswagen hasn’t added illumination to the sliders used to control the volume and climate.
The result is a more pleasing driving environment with higher perceived quality and, despite apparent similarities with the earlier ID 3, more intuitive and easier-to-command controls than before.
The front seats are rather flat and lack side support. However, the high seating position makes for excellent vision. A flat floor also provides above-class-average accommodation, most notably rear seat leg room. Boot capacity remains at a Golf-beating 385 litres, although the ID 3 has a much high loading lip and floor than its combustion-engined stablemate.
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How a car looks seems to have gone out the window with EV cars, they just look like a box, large interior space with basic controls which should get you to and from your destinations with minimum fuss, sorry but they just don't look appealing and to me that more than half the point of owning a car.
A Model 3, Taycan, 500e, Q4, iX, e-cx4, i-pace, look like boxes. Emmm
So the ID3 feels most at home around town, yet its unsettled over high frequency bumps at lower speeds, conditions which you'll probably find mostly .... around town. Interesting.