Volkswagen’s ID.3 GTI arrives on 50th anniversary of iconic hot-hatch

Volkswagen has produced its most powerful GTI to date with a new model based on the electric iD.3.

Fully named ID.3 GTI, it brings a rear-wheel-drive layout for the first time with a single motor producing 322bhp and 545Nm of torque. In all, it enables a 0-60mph time of 5.3 seconds, making it quicker than the current petrol-powered Golf GTI.

Volkswagen claims that despite the performance, the ID.3 GTI will still return a range of up to 373 miles, while a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be completed in just under half an hour.

The ID.3 GTI also arrives on the 50th anniversary of the launch of the original Golf GTI, marking a new age for Volkswagen’s iconic three-letter moniker.

A new dedicated GTI driving mode – accessed via a physical button the steering wheel – unlocks the full potential of the ID.3’s electric motor while sharpening the throttle and stiffening the suspension for a more involving driving experience. Volkswagen says that thai mode will be accompanied by a sound generator which recreates the noise of a petrol engine, too.

On the outside, the GTI is differentiated from the standard ID.3 through its widened bumpers, vertical LED daytime running lights and classic red flash in the front grille. The front headlights are connected by a light strip with an illuminated Volkswagen logo in the middle. All versions get 20-inch alloy wheels, too, and are called ‘Worthersee’ after the famous GTI meet in Austria.

Further pricing and specification details for the ID.3 GTI are expected to be announced shortly.