Volkswagen ID.3 Hatchback

The most recent vehicle to be on the TYSONCOOPER fleet was the VW ID.3. I have worked in the automotive sector for in excess of 20 years and I have never been amazed by such a vehicle in the past. The ID.3 is spacious and comfortable with captain’s style chairs in the front that are normally reserved for more luxurious vehicle such as Range Rovers. The dashboard is split into two main areas: a smaller drivers display but with a clear digital speedo which is always present. Next to this you can choose either trip information/navigation/cruise control. The main central display takes a little to get used to, but once you have navigated around it, it’s quite simple to find the usual apps such as navigation phone or the widely used Android Auto or Apple car play. Both are wireless where as many manufactures are still using cables.

For the size of vehicle, the cabin space is spacious for four adults, the vision from the front is very good with slim pillars and glass quarter light. This gives a very good view from the driving position as many cars these days to meet the strict safety standards the pillars have been getting bulkier and obstructing views.

On entering the cabin, there is no need to find a stop start button. There is one located on the steering column if you really do need to find it. The drive selector is hidden behind the steering wheel by the side of the display. One of my colleagues did spend a few minutes scratching his head trying to locate drive much to our amusement. With a simple twist forward, you select drive, and a twist backwards puts it into reverse. When you are ready to park just press park on this control, and you are ready to exit the vehicle with nothing further to do. Very simple and functional. 

What was a pleasant surprise is the adaptive cruise control. This is response intelligent and very addictive to use. The system uses a mixture of sensors, GPS location and navigation systems to keep you safe. As you approach a bend or roundabout the system will reduce the speed to enable you to navigate without touching the brakes. As with all these systems, they are a driver aid and occasionally, it did get it wrong, to which you can step in and take control.

The vehicle handles well, and like many electric vehicles, has plenty of power and acceleration to get you away from a junction in fast moving traffic. As electric vehicles don’t have gears, the drive is very smooth and refined. At motorway speed it’s a lovely, quiet place to be with only the normal wind and tyre noise present. This is noticeable but not intrusive as many people think that electric cars are completely silent.

It is a spacious comfortable car, the interior is functional, clean and simple, but you can’t describe it as luxurious, however if you want luxury, you will probably be looking at another brand.

For an easy going, practical family hatch the ID3 will be at the top of your list to consider.

For members of BASC, Fram Farmers, ICEAW, RICS, and other professional organisations, there are some great offers on this Volkswagen and many others – for details and more information call us on 01473 372020 or fill in our on-line contact form to arrange a call back at a time convenient for you.