VW is said to be working on a high-performance, R-badged version of the all-electric ID.3, but as it turns out, the standard model offers up more than enough straight-line performance for most buyers.
Powering the ID.3 is a single electric motor at the rear axle that delivers 201 hp. Despite being down on power, Volkswagen Spain thought it would be interesting to compare it to the new Mk8 VW Golf GTI.
The latest Golf GTI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 242 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm). This should, on paper, give it an advantage over the ID.3 but, as it turns out, the all-electric hatchback won’t go down without a fight.
Watch Also: VW Golf GTI Hits Skoda Swerving Into Lane At Over 230km/h On Autobahn
In this test, the immediate available torque of the ID.3 allows it to launch off the line faster than the Golf GTI. It is worth pointing out though that the race was held over a short distance. Had the race been held over the quarter-mile, the GTI would have stood a much better chance of claiming the victory.
Speaking of the new Golf GTI, it really hasn’t undergone many powertrain modifications over the Mk 7.5 variant and is certainly no rival to the likes of the Honda Civic Type R and Renault Megane R.S. Trophy. This role belongs to the 296 hp GTI Clubsport that was unveiled last month and, like them, is a FWD hot hatch with nearly 300 HP.