Volkswagen ID.3 Neo: the latest updates

A refreshed Volkswagen ID.3 is getting closer to its official debut. Volkswagen unveiled the first electric model in the ID family back in 2019, and it is now preparing a substantial update that focuses on styling and technology.

In a move that mirrors the scale of these changes, the name is also being revised: it will become the ID.3 Neo. While Volkswagen has already confirmed it will move away from purely alphanumeric naming - something we have already seen with models such as the ID. Polo and the ID. Cross - the ID.3 keeps the number that has always identified it.

The Neo designation (“new”) is not entirely new to Volkswagen. The brand has chosen to revive the internal name used for the ID.3 during its development programme.

What do we know so far?

Volkswagen has released a set of sketches (shown in the gallery above) that reveal the full scope of the visual changes.

Exterior revisions for the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo

At the front, the ID.3 Neo adopts new headlamp units and redesigned bumpers, more in line with what has been seen on the ID. Polo and ID. Cross prototypes. Around the back, the tailgate will now be finished in the same colour as the bodywork, alongside subtle tweaks to the rear lights. In side profile, there appear to be no changes apart from newly styled alloy wheels.

Interior changes: physical buttons return

Inside, Volkswagen has already confirmed a key update: all future models in the ID. family will bring back physical buttons on the steering wheel, partially replacing the touch controls that have attracted criticism from users.

Latest software and driver-assistance upgrades

The Volkswagen ID.3 Neo is also expected to add new technology features thanks to the introduction of the latest-generation software. Travel Assist, for example, will be able to detect traffic lights, and the car will also gain One Pedal Driving, allowing both acceleration and braking to be managed using only the accelerator pedal.

Volkswagen has also announced further new features across the ID. range, including the Innovision infotainment system and the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, which can power external devices with up to 3.6 kW. As an option, ID models will also offer a digital key, enabling the car to be unlocked and started via a smartphone or smartwatch.

“Volkswagen’s new electric models in the small and compact vehicle segments - ID. Polo, ID. Polo GTI and ID. Cross - will also be launched on the market soon with these innovations,” said Kai Grünitz, a member of Volkswagen’s Board of Management responsible for Technical Development.

When will it arrive?

The Volkswagen ID.3 Neo will be unveiled globally in mid-April. Final specifications have not yet been confirmed - so it remains unclear whether there will be changes to motors and batteries - and pricing has not been announced either.

Software rollout: ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 first

As for the new-generation software, the first models set to receive it will be the ID. 4, ID. 5 and ID. 7, which will soon be available to order.

Entry-level ID.4 and ID.5: new motor and LFP battery

The ID.4 and ID.5 will also gain, in their entry versions, a new electric motor (APP 350) producing 140 kW (190 cv) and a new 58 kWh LFP battery. This is expected to deliver an increase in range of 40 km in the ID.4 compared with the current model. For now, launch dates for individual markets have not been confirmed.