A prototype of Volkswagen's sportiest ID. 3 Neo has been spotted testing in Germany.
The test car could be the replacement for the old 322 hp ID. 3 GTX, and this time it might wear the GTI badge.
The mostly undisguised Neo test car features a lower front bumper similar to the ID. Polo GTi.
Volkswagen recently unveiled the heavily updated ID. 3 Neo, but one important version was missing.
While buyers can choose from three sensible powertrains, there's still no replacement for the departed ID. 3 GTX.
That now looks set to change.
Spy photographers have caught what they call the first ID. 3 Neo GTX prototype testing on public roads.
Whether it reaches production wearing a GTX badge is another matter.
At first glance, the prototype doesn't look dramatically different from the standard ID. 3 Neo.
But VW appears to be hiding its work.
The lower front intake is disguised, though we can still make out it has the same mouth-like shape as the new ID.
Polo GTi.
The rear bumper features camouflage covering what looks like a redesigned diffuser section.
The fact that VW gave the hot electric Polo the GTI name is a strong indicator that the most performance-focused ID.
3 Neo will get the same honor.
Either way, the recipe is likely to remain familiar.
Unlike the front-wheel-drive ID. Polo GTI, the ID.
3 sits on VW's older MEB architecture with a rear-mounted motor driving the back wheels.
That would give it a layout no GTI has ever enjoyed before if it really does get that badge.
322 HP At A Minimum
The most likely outcome is a carryover of the old electric GTX hardware.
That would mean up to 322 hp (326 PS) and 402 lb-ft (545 Nm) of torque, and a 5.6-second zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) time.
The old GTX achieved 373 miles (600 km) of WLTP range from its 79 kWh battery, but VW might squeeze a few more miles out for the refresh.
The standard ID.
3 Neo currently tops out at 228 hp (231 PS) and offers up to 391 miles (630 km) of range.
It also introduced sharper styling, a redesigned dashboard, improved materials, larger screens, and a return to physical buttons.
That interior overhaul should carry straight across to the hot version, but hopefully with plenty of plaid upholstery and red detailing.
Look for a European debut later this year, but as with the old GTX and new ID.
Polo GTI, this updated electric hot hatch will be off-limits to Americans.
