Volkswagen has officially unveiled the ID.3 GTI on September 16, 2026, bringing back the legendary GTI nameplate to its electric vehicle lineup. The ID.3 GTI is a sportier version of the ID.3, which recently underwent a mid-life update known as the ID.3 Neo. This new variant sits at the top of the ID.3 range, combining ergonomic upgrades from the Neo with enhanced performance and design cues that pay homage to Volkswagen’s storied motorsport heritage. Under the hood, the ID.3 GTI maintains a rear-wheel drive layout, powered by the APP550 motor on the rear axle. However, it significantly outperforms the GTX version it replaces. The 2027 model produces 240 kW (326 hp) and 545 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds with Launch Control, and reach a top speed of 200 km/h (electronically limited). It is powered by a 79 kWh battery, which provides a range of up to 601 km according to the WLTP standard. Fast-charging capabilities allow it to go from 10 to 80% in just 29 minutes using DC charging. The vehicle’s chassis has been tuned for improved handling, with recalibrated steering, a lowered suspension, and adaptive DCC suspension as standard. The front axle has been optimized for sharper cornering. Externally, the ID.3 GTI stands out with design elements like the classic Tornado Red paint, a red strip above the grille, honeycomb air vents, 20-inch "Wörthersee" wheels, red accents on the front bumper, and a glossy black rear diffuser. Inside, the ID.3 GTI features the Neo’s updated interior with a 12.9-inch touchscreen, an illuminated climate control bar, and a physical volume knob on the center console. Additional GTI-specific features include reimagined tartan upholstery, a GTI button on the steering wheel to activate performance mode, and a dedicated "Powermeter" display in the Digital Cockpit. The GTI mode also includes a simulated internal combustion engine sound to evoke the feel of traditional performance cars. The ID.3 GTI is essentially a redesigned version of the ID.3 GTX, rebranded and built on the MEB+ platform used in the recent ID.3 Neo. It is the most powerful GTI in Volkswagen’s history and the first to use rear-wheel drive, a departure from the front-wheel drive layout of the Golf GTI. However, compared to competitors like the MG4 XPower and Tesla Model 3 Performance, the ID.3 GTI’s power output is seen as relatively modest. Volkswagen positions it as a "versatile model" rather than a track-focused car, hinting that a more extreme version like an ID.3 GTI Clubsport or R may be in development. The ID.3 GTI is expected to be priced higher than the Cupra Born VZ, which shares similar specs, and is set to launch in spring 2027.