Volkswagen ID.3: Next-gen all-electric hatchback with 'likeability' upgrades makes global debut

Volkswagen has started teasing its next wave of new electric cars in earnest, starting with the next-gen ID.3. The marque has now previewed the upcoming hatchback's design in detail, confident that it will be more of a delight to drivers and passengers alike, particularly compared to its original forebear.

The new ID.3 has been unveiled as a vehicle with a design overhaul that may make it appear "confident and friendly from every angle", as well as longer despite its compact form-factor. Volkswagen has also indicated that its interior is to get more comfortable, yet have more presence for its occupants thanks to improved integrated haptics.

It may also get more ID. Buzz-like, especially with its Artvelours Eco finish made of up to 71% recycled materials. The ID.3 is also touted to be "intelligently connected" as standard, with truly automatic plug-and-play charging (no more fiddling with public station UIs to make sure it is drawing power, apparently) and an Electric Vehicle Route Planner to optimize rest-stops based on battery level.

On that note, Volkswagen claims to have given the ID.3 an infotainment overhaul with "many customer wishes...taken into account". To this end, a 5.3-inch display is found behind the steering wheel, to go with the main 12-inch dashboard touchscreen.

Their UI has been unveiled with a greater assurance of OTA updates, and also rated for improved clarity and organization. For example, the charging menu has been moved to the first level of its menus. Finally, the ID.3 will have an heads-up display, albeit as an option.

However, whether these consumer-sourced upgrades make oneday owners happy still remains to be seen: Volkswagen projects that the new ID.3 will available by 2026 at the latest.

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