Volkswagen ID.3 Neo receives major upgrades

The Volkswagen ID.3 Neo has received a significant upgrade, enhancing its efficiency and charging capabilities. This marks the third facelift for the model, which was first introduced in 2019 and is nearing the end of its product lifecycle. The updates include revised styling, a new driving position, and improved powertrains, with a new 58 kWh version featuring a 140 kW (190 hp) electric motor and 350 Nm of torque.

Enhanced range and efficiency

The Volkswagen ID.3 Neo 58 kWh has a WLTP range of 478 km, with an energy consumption of 14.4 kWh/100 km (12.1 kWh/100 km net). Its performance varies depending on driving conditions, with a mixed range of 14.6 kWh/100 km covering 400 km and a long-distance range of 19.5 kWh/100 km covering 300 km. These figures highlight the car’s efficiency across different driving scenarios.

Improved charging performance

The charging performance of the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo is notable, with a 10-80% charge achievable in 22 minutes. Although the new version has a maximum power of 105 kW and a charging time of 26 minutes, it can still reach a fast charging peak of 127 kW, maintaining this power level up to nearly 55% of the charge. This allows the battery to charge faster than previous versions, with a 10-80% charge in 22 minutes and a full charge in 38 minutes.

Efficiency and charging conditions

On a full charge, the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo is as efficient as the latest BMW iX3 in terms of average power. It can accept maximum charging power as soon as the battery temperature reaches around 20 °C. However, the actual charging time may vary depending on the initial battery temperature. For example, with a battery starting at 18 °C, the car achieved a peak of over 120 kW but then the performance dropped, requiring more than 25 minutes for a 10-80% charge.

Cost of charging and travel efficiency

The cost of charging the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo varies depending on the type of charging station. Fast charging stations deliver around 43.8 kWh for a 10-80% charge, while AC charging on public stations at 11 kW provides 45.3 kWh. The direct usage cost is 9.5 €/100 km for DC charging and 3.3 €/100 km for AC home charging. On the highway, the cost can reach up to 12.6 €/100 km, but with an operator subscription, it can be reduced to 8.2 €/100 km.

Travel time and efficiency

The travel time for a 500 km journey with the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo is 4 hours and 53 minutes, with a total immobilization time of 25 minutes for two charges. This performance places it in the upper segment of the market, with values similar to the Skoda Elroq 85 and significantly better than the Tesla Model Y Standard. The compact model also offers a 200 km range boost in just 15 minutes of charging.

Value for money and segment position

The Volkswagen ID.3 Neo is more than just a facelift, offering significant improvements in technology, charging speed, and efficiency. The 58 kWh version starts at 40,500 € and goes up to 42,700 € for the high-end Style version. The 5,400 € surcharge for the 79 kWh version appears unjustified, as the 58 kWh model performs well enough to be a strong contender in the electric car segment.