Volkswagen Introduces the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer
For Volkswagen fans, the initials “GTI” carry significant historical weight, tracing back nearly five decades to the debut of the original Golf GTI at the 1975 Frankfurt auto show. However, with the rise of electric vehicles, enthusiasts must acclimate to a new designation. Enter the ID.3 GTX, Volkswagen’s premier electric hot hatch, and the ID.7 GTX Tourer, a sporty electric wagon. Regrettably, neither model will debut in the United States.
While Volkswagen previously unveiled GTX variants of the ID.4 crossover and ID.5 coupe SUV for the European market in 2021, featuring the dual-motor powertrain found in all-wheel-drive ID.4s available in America, the ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer mark the first truly sporty electric offerings from Volkswagen, distinguished by their striking hatchback and wagon body styles.
The ID.3 GTX is presented in two versions. The standard variant boasts 282 horsepower, while the Performance model ramps up to 322 horsepower. The GTX variants surpass the power output of the traditional gas-powered GTI on the base model and exceed that of the Golf R in the electric performance edition. Both GTX iterations deliver 402 pound-feet of torque and operate on rear-wheel drive. Volkswagen indicates that the standard GTX accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 6.0 seconds, while the Performance variant accomplishes the same feat in 5.6 seconds. The top speed for both electric models is capped at 111 and 124 mph, respectively. A 79.0-kWh battery is positioned in the center of the floor for optimal weight distribution. The ID.3 GTX can be charged at up to 175 kW, with the battery replenishing from 10 to 80 percent in as little as 26 minutes when connected to a DC fast charger. Volkswagen estimates a range of approximately 373 miles on Europe’s WLTP test cycle, which tends to be more optimistic.
Externally, the GTX model is distinguished from standard ID.3s by a redesigned front bumper featuring a black air intake and boomerang-shaped running lights. Gloss black accents adorn the new rear diffuser and other exterior trim, while 20-inch wheels add a touch of flair. The base GTX has 215-section-width tires, while the Performance variant features 235-section-width tires. Inside, the GTX receives sport seats with red stitching extending to the steering wheel. The launch of the GTX coincides with the introduction of an upgraded infotainment system via a 12.9-inch touchscreen.
Meanwhile, the VW ID.7 GTX Tourer boasts a slightly more robust powertrain, with dual motors delivering 335 horsepower to all four wheels. The permanent synchronous motor on the rear axle mirrors the 282-hp unit found in the ID.3 GTX, while the front axle utilizes an asynchronous motor producing 108 horsepower. The vehicle’s top speed is limited to 112 mph, with no acceleration figures provided. The ID.7 GTX Tourer features an 86.0-kWh battery capable of charging up to 200 kW, with an expected charging time of 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes. While specific range figures have yet to be disclosed, the increased power and addition of all-wheel drive will likely reduce the range below the normal ID.7 Tourer’s 426-mile WLTP figure despite the larger battery capacity.
The ID.7 GTX Tourer shares a similar bumper design with the ID.3 GTX, with identical 20-inch wheels and gloss black trim. Inside, the vehicle receives similar enhancements, including more heavily bolstered front seats with heating and red piping. Red stitching accents the dashboard, doors, and steering wheel. Sales of the VW ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer will commence in Europe this year (2024), though enthusiasts in the United States will have to appreciate these sporty EVs from a distance. Volkswagen has not indicated plans to introduce the compact ID.3 to the American market. While the U.S. will inherit the sedan variant of the ID.7 soon, sadly, the wagon will not accompany it.
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Photo Source/Copyright: Volkswagen Newsroom