Volkswagen Unveils ID.3 GTI EV, Slated for European Launch in Spring 2027

On September 16, Volkswagen unveiled the ID.3 GTI. This model is a renamed version of the ID.3 GTX following its discontinuation and subsequent mid-cycle refresh; the standard refreshed variant is named the ID.3 Neo. This marks the first time Volkswagen has applied the GTI badge to a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Previously, the first electric model to carry the GTI suffix was the front-wheel-drive ID. Polo GTI. The ID.3 GTI continues to use the MEB+ platform, with the electric motor mounted on the rear axle. It delivers a maximum output of 322 horsepower—matching the ID.3 GTX and one horsepower more than the Golf GTI 50th Anniversary Edition—and peak torque of 545 N·m. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h. The drive motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery with a net capacity of 79 kWh. Under the WLTP test cycle, it offers a range of 601 kilometers on a single charge—10 kilometers more than the ID.3 GTX. Using a 183 kW DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes. Exterior highlights include red accents, gloss-black trim elements, and vertical LED daytime running lights on the front fascia. The sides feature GTI side badges and 20-inch wheels fitted with 225-section tires, with optional 235-section tires available. The rear end sports GTI badging and black plastic trim. Inside, physical buttons on the steering wheel, a dedicated volume knob, and separate rear window switchgear have returned. The driver display has been upgraded to a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, while the infotainment screen measures 12.9 inches. Physical controls remain on the center console, replacing the touch-sensitive slider previously located beneath the screen. The cabin also features front sport seats and red interior accents. A new dedicated GTI driving mode has been added, which activates launch control and plays simulated engine sounds. Volkswagen plans to continue selling the combustion-engine Golf GTI. The ID.3 GTI will go on sale in European markets in spring 2027.