Volkswagen has launched an upgraded version of the ID.3 in China, with slightly changed exterior and interior, and equipped with lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The 2025 ID.3 is priced between 119,900 and 136,900 yuan ($16,500-18,800).

The Volkswagen ID.3 has always been equipped with NMC ternary batteries, but this is the first time that Volkswagen has brought the LFP version to the market.

The LFP battery supplied by CATL has a capacity of 53.6 kWh and provides a range of 451 kilometers under CLTC conditions. It can be charged 30-80% by DC in about 48 minutes.

The motor is the same as the previous generation: 125 kW is installed on the rear axle and has a peak torque of 310 Nm. Power consumption is 13.4 kWh/100km.

The appearance is basically the same. The wheels adopt the same design as the previous generation, with 18-inch and 20-inch options available. The A-pillar is now partially painted black. VW has added two new colors: beige and light blue.

The changes to the interior are more interesting. The central control screen has grown from 10 inches to 12.9 inches, while the LCD instrument panel remains at 5.3 inches. In addition, the central screen has smaller bezels and no physical button additions mounted at the bottom. The center tunnel has been redesigned and features a wireless charging pad and two cup holders. Overall, the interior looks more upscale.

Volkswagen also offers an NMC battery version of the ID.3 at the same starting price. The battery capacity is slightly smaller (52.8 kWh), the range is almost the same (450 kilometers), and charging is faster (30-80% in 42 minutes). AC charging takes 8.5 hours, while the LFP version takes 9.5 hours. The price is the same as the LFP version - 119,900 yuan ($16,500).

The ID.3, produced by SAIC Volkswagen, is Volkswagen's best-selling electric car in China. In January, the company sold 2,623 units, down 65.5% year-on-year. In 2024, the company sold 93,816 ID.3s in China.