Volkswagen’s ID.3 GTI arrives on 50th anniversary of iconic hot-hatchdpa internationalDPAThu, September 17, 2026 at 11:48 AM UTCAdd us on GoogleSix months after the ID.3's facelift, VW is once again placing a sports model at the top of its electric range. However, rather than being marketed as the GTX as before, the compact powerhouse will be offered as the GTI, the manufacturer has announced. Ingo Barenschee/Volkswagen/dpaVolkswagen has produced its most powerful GTI to date with a new model based on the electric iD.3.Fully named ID.3 GTI, it brings a rear-wheel-drive layout for the first time with a single motor producing 322 bhp and 545 Nm of torque. In all, it enables a 0-100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds, making it quicker than the current petrol-powered Golf GTI.Volkswagen claims that despite the performance, the ID.3 GTI will still return a range of up to 601 km, while a 10 to 80% charge can be completed in just under half an hour.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe ID.3 GTI also arrives on the 50th anniversary of the launch of the original Golf GTI, marking a new age for Volkswagen's iconic three-letter moniker.A new dedicated GTI driving mode – accessed via a physical button the steering wheel – unlocks the full potential of the ID.3's electric motor while sharpening the throttle and stiffening the suspension for a more involving driving experience. Volkswagen says that thai mode will be accompanied by a sound generator which recreates the noise of a petrol engine, too.On the outside, the GTI is differentiated from the standard ID.3 through its widened bumpers, vertical LED daytime running lights and classic red flash in the front grille. The front headlights are connected by a light strip with an illuminated Volkswagen logo in the middle. All versions get 20-inch alloy wheels, too, and are called 'Worthersee' after the famous GTI meet in Austria.Further pricing and specification details for the ID.3 GTI are expected to be announced shortly. VW has not yet revealed prices, but according to official statements, they aim to remain "under €50,000". To date, the most expensive model in the range is the ID.3 Neo with 170 kW/231 PS, priced at €47,595 in Europe.