Hot ID 3 channels spirit of Golf GTI

VW's first electric hot hatch will be a 282bhp rear-wheel-drive ID 3, due later this year

- GREG KABLE

Volkswagen is preparing to launch a 282bhp hot version of the ID 3 that will serve as an electric equivalent to the Golf GTI.

The electric hot hatchback builds on plans first aired by Volkswagen with the unveiling of the smaller ID GTI concept at the Munich motor show in September last year, with unique exterior styling touches, an upgraded interior and a revised drivetrain offering significantly more power and torque than existing ID 3 models.

Seen here in prototype form undergoing cold weather testing, the upcoming range-topping ID 3 has two-wheel drive, like every Volkswagen that has worn the hallowed GTI badge over the past five decades.

However, instead of being front-wheel drive, this latest sporting model will have rear-wheel drive, in line with every other ID 3.