Volkswagen is continuing its push into electric performance with the debut of the ID.3 GTI, a new electric hot hatch that aims to carry the iconic GTI spirit into the EV era. While it may not be a leap forward in raw power over its predecessor, the ID.3 GTX, the ID.3 GTI promises a refined and engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.

Under the hood – or rather, powering the rear wheels – the ID.3 GTI boasts an impressive 326 PS (321 hp/240 kW) and delivers a substantial 545 Nm (402 lb-ft) of torque. This output positions it as the most powerful VW GTI to date, matching the punchiness of the outgoing ID.3 GTX and slightly edging out the Golf GTI Edition 50, which produces 325 PS (320 hp/239 kW) and can hit 100 kph (62 mph) in a brisk 5.3 seconds.

However, for those expecting a speed increase, the ID.3 GTI mirrors the performance of the ID.3 GTX. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kph (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 200 kph (124 mph). Powering this electric performance is a 79 kWh battery pack. Volkswagen states that this battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 29 minutes, with support for charging speeds up to 183 kW.

Range remains a strong suit for the new ID.3 GTI, with an estimated 601 km (373 miles) achievable on a full charge. This represents a modest improvement of 10 km (6 miles) over the previous model. To enhance the performance feel, Volkswagen has included Launch Control, and the DCC sports chassis is designed to deliver a “new, pure, and dynamic GTI experience.”

Visually, the ID.3 GTI introduces subtle yet significant styling tweaks. Unlike the GTX, which featured contrasting black elements on the roof, spoiler, and tailgate, the GTI sports these areas in the same color as the rest of the body. The car is offered in a palette of black, red, white, silver, and gray, and comes standard with 20-inch wheels. The distinctive GTX badging on the front fenders has been replaced with the classic GTI emblem, which also appears on the tailgate.

Inside, the cabin retains a familiar layout but emphasizes user-friendliness with an increase in physical controls compared to the GTX. Drivers will appreciate the tactile buttons on the multi-function steering wheel and a dedicated volume knob. The digital cockpit now features a larger 10.25-inch display, complemented by a 12.9-inch infotainment screen. The controversial touch slider below the main display has been removed in favor of more conventional controls.

A new “GTI” driving mode is accessible via a button on the steering wheel. Activating this mode turns the instrument dials red and enhances the sporty appearance of the digital cockpit. Volkswagen has also incorporated simulated engine noise to evoke the traditional GTI driving sensation, a feature that mirrors the Golf GTI.

Pre-sales for the Volkswagen ID.3 GTI are slated to begin in early 2027, with market-specific pricing and detailed specifications to be announced closer to the launch. While the ID.3 GTI will not be available in the United States, its crossover counterpart, the ID.4, is currently offered starting at an MSRP of $45,095. It will be interesting to see if future electric VW models, including potential successors to the ID.4 GTX, adopt the GTI nomenclature.