Volkswagen ID.3 battery hatchback debuts at the IAA 2019

The all-new Volkswagen ID.3 has celebrated its official premiere at the ongoing international motor show in Frankfurt, Germany.

Just as rumored, it ended up with a single electric motor with 204 hp (152 kW) and 310 Nm (229 lb-ft) of torque, electronically capped at 160 km/h (99 mph).

At 4,261 mm (13.98 ft.) long, 1,809 mm (5.94 ft.) wide and 1,552 mm (5.09 ft.) tall with 2,765 mm (9.07 ft.) of wheelbase, the car turns out to be quite compact. On the other hand, at 1,719 kg (3,790 lbs) curb weight, it is actually quite heavy as well.

Crack open the door, and you will be greeted with two large displays, one serving as a dashboard and the other as the infotainment unit. The only hardware controls you can find are those used to raise/lower the windows and toggle the hazard blinkers.

The model will arrive in three battery sizes: 45 kWh (330 km / 205 miles of range), 58 kWh (420 km / 261 mi), and 77 kWh (550 km / 342 mi).

Considering its low center of gravity, perfect axial weight distribution and the rear drive system, the hatchback should prove quite a pleasure to drive.

A special edition called the VW ID.3 1st will be the first to hit the market. Based on the ‘middle-ground’ 58kWh battery version, it will offer a choice from three trim levels and a long list of options on top of that.

The rumors were correct about the pricing, too: the Volkswagen ID.3 will arrive priced under €30,000 in its most basic implementation. Sales will begin in mid-2020.