Volkswagen announces host of revisions to ID.3 with new Neo

Volkswagen has brought a range of upgrades to its ID.3 electric hatchback with a new Neo model.

Building on the existing ID.3, the Neo has a series of changes designed to make it more efficient and more intuitive to use.

On the outside, the ID.3 has been given a distinctive new look with a refreshed front end incorporating a broader full-width LED light bar and sharp headlights, similar in design to those used on the upcoming ID.Cross and ID. Polo models.

The rear end design is more similar to that of the previous ID.3, though the lights have been given a smoked effect.

The Neo gains revised electric motors over the iD.3, too. From launch, there will be a trio of motor options alongside three different battery sizes. Outputs range from 168bhp to 228bhp, while Volkswagen claims a headline range of up to 391 miles in big-battery cars. There’s a top charging speed of up to 183kW in 79kWh battery cars, too, or 105kW in those with a smaller 50 and 58kWh battery models.

For the first time, the ID.3’s on-board energy supply can be used to power external devices, with up to 3.6kW available.

The steering wheel has been completely redesigned with more intuitive controls, while a 10.25-inch digital cockpit sits alongside a 12.9-inch infotainment display to handle media functions.

Volkswagen has also ditched several touch-sensitive controls, such as those for the heating, in favour of more intuitive physical buttons and dials. The driver’s door also features a separate switch for each window, whereas the original ID.3 used just two with a toggle switch to change between front and rear window control.

Volkswagen has yet to reveal full pricing for the ID.3 Neo, but it’s expected that this will be announced soon.