Volkswagen ID.3 Electric Taxi Review 2024
Agile and energetic, the Volkswagen ID.3 is an all-electric hatchback that’s sure to transform how you drive.
Models available from The Taxi Centre
| Powertrain | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Dimensions | 4,264mm L x 1,809mm W x 1,564mm H | 4,264mm L x 1,809mm W x 1,564mm H | 4,264mm L x 1,809mm W x 1,564mm H |
| Boot space | 385 litres | 385 litres | 385 litres |
| Economy/miles per pound (mpp) |
Electric motors, home charging – 12.1 – 13.2mpp Electric motors, public charging – 6.5 – 7.1mpp |
Electric motors, home charging – 12.1 – 13.2mpp Electric motors, public charging – 6.5 – 7.1mpp |
Electric motors, home charging – 12.1 – 13.2mpp Electric motors, public charging – 6.5 – 7.1mpp |
Design: Exterior and interior
Born of the first electric Volkswagen series - the ID. family - the ID.3 is a compact yet stylish electric hatchback. It may look small on the outside, though the interior is spacious and cleverly designed.
Inside, high-quality materials add a touch of luxury and ambience – from the dashboard and door trims to the seats. These are sustainably sourced from recycled PET bottles and more - showing a commitment to eco-friendly design.
Optional features include electric seats with a massage function for an extra special touch. Plus, you can set the perfect tone with ambient interior lighting – including eight standard colours, or 30 if you upgrade.
In the driver’s cabin, a reach and rake adjustable steering column allows for easy adjustment. Plus, the multifunction steering wheel keeps all your main controls handy.
On the outside, the ID.3’s design is minimalist, though it’s anything but boring. It features a compact, sporty body enhanced with a range of attractive colour options for a fun, fresh look.
The sleek front face stands out on the road with optional dynamic turn signals and IQ. LIGHT LED Matrix headlights. At the rear, a subtle spoiler and clustered taillights add a sporty touch of style.
Technology
An electric vehicle (EV) at heart, the Volkswagen ID.3 taxi is all about technology. It’s built on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB), featuring exclusive ID. software.
This brings you upgraded charging functions and over-the-air updates to make sure your ID.3 taxi is always up to date. These can be accessed using We Connect making everyday tasks behind the wheel easier than ever.
On the road, you’ll be able to use the augmented reality Head-up Display to stay informed when it comes to speed limits, road signs and more. This is extremely handy when it comes to navigation, making it easier to find your way.
Using this, you can also view your battery’s state of charge (SOC) which is ideal for planning your next top-up.
Say “Hello” to your ID.3 and your virtual assistant will help you control the radio, navigation or phone using simple voice commands. If you prefer, simply use the 10” touchscreen infotainment system and control your ID.3 with a simple tap.
When it comes to parking, the ID.3 does the hard work for you using Park Assist Plus. This system allows you to teach your ID.3 recurring parking manoeuvres to make parking a dream.
Performance and drive
The ID.3 is powered by an electric battery and an electric motor, meaning there’s no engine coughing up emissions. This makes it incredibly efficient with zero tailpipe emissions.
Not only is it better for the environment, but also for your everyday driving comfort. With an all-electric powertrain you’ll enjoy a smoother, quieter ride for you and your passengers. Plus, since electric taxis are automatic there’s no scrabbling about with gear changes.
For a compact hatchback, it still offers an impressive electric range with two battery options. The Pro features a 58kWh battery producing up to 204PS and up to 270 miles (WLTP) driving range.
Meanwhile, the Pro S trim takes things one step further with a larger 77kWh battery, producing the same 204PS yet up to 356 miles (WLTP) range.
With instant acceleration, you can quite literally feel the power, reaching 0-62mph in just 7.4 seconds with the Pro, and 7.9 with the Pro S.
As for charging, you have a range of options. These include home charging using a domestic three-pin plug or public charging at over 53,000 charging points nationwide.
Passenger and boot space
Moving onto space, you’ll be surprised to find the ID.3 is as practical for carrying passengers as it is for storage.
The interior is spacious despite its compact proportions, with plenty of leg and headroom passengers seated in the back. With no central tunnel running through the interior, the result is a wider, more spacious feel.
The boot offers up to an impressive 385 litres of space which is more than sufficient for safely carrying luggage. That’s more than that offered by more popular models like the Volkswagen Golf.
Reliability
With fewer moving parts than a petrol or diesel taxi, the Volkswagen ID.3 promises more reliability when it comes to longevity.
As with all other electric Volkswagens, the ID.3 comes with a high-voltage battery warranty of eight years (or up to 100,000 miles). Thanks to two security buffers, you needn’t worry about overcharging or full depletion with your battery which should help it last longer.
The manufacturer has even provided helpful tips to help you extend the lifespan of your battery throughout ownership. These include not charging the battery to more than 80% for a short daily trip.
You should also charge to between 30-80% capacity if your ID.3 has been stood for 12 hours or more unused, and fully recharge the vehicle using a charge timer. This can be done easily using the charge manager.
For added peace of mind, Volkswagen also offer additional electric car warranties. Each EV comes with a three-year (60,000-mile) warranty for defects and repairs. Plus, a three-year warranty for paintwork and a 12-year body protection warranty.
Safety
With a range of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), the Volkswagen ID.3 has safety well-covered. These include Travel Assist - your onboard driving assistant to help you stay in your lane and maintain a safe distance from the car in front.
Emergency Assist is also at your service in the event of an unexpected medical emergency. If you cease to remain active, the ID.3 can come to a controlled stop to help prevent accidents.
Whether you’re cruising the motorway or driving around town, the ID.3 is ready to make the journey smoother. Features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Park Assist Plus make for a more relaxing drive whatever the destination.
Of course, the ID.3 is packed with all your usual onboard safety features like side airbags, front and rear airbags, seatbelt reminders and more. There’s even a tyre pressure monitoring system to make sure your tyres are always correctly inflated.
Cost of ownership
Like many electric vehicles, the ID.3 has a price point to that of a similar petrol or diesel alternative. Though there are plenty of savings for you to enjoy in the long run.
For a start, you won’t have to pay fuel prices or road tax since the ID.3 is all-electric, with zero emissions.
Charging can also be scheduled with the help of apps, allowing you to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs when topping up at home.
You’ll also notice greater savings when it comes to servicing and maintenance. With an electric taxi like the ID.3, you’ll pay less for repairs since electric taxis contain fewer moving parts that could go wrong.
The Taxi Centre’s verdict
In a nutshell, the Volkswagen ID.3 makes a smart choice if you’re looking to upgrade to an electric taxi and sticking to inner-city journeys. Its updated design and upscale cabin offer passengers a comfortable and enjoyable ride. With faster charging capabilities, the ID.3 minimizes downtime, making it a practical and efficient choice for your next taxi. Consider the ID.3 for a smart investment in your taxi service.