Volkswagen has launched an updated version of its ID.3 electric vehicle in China for the 2025 model year, introducing a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery option for the first time. The refreshed model retains its existing design but features an upgraded interior and a competitive pricing strategy.
The latest ID.3 now comes with two battery choices: a 52.8 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery and a newly introduced 53.6 kWh LFP battery supplied by CATL. The LFP version offers a range of 451 km under China’s CLTC testing standard, though its charging performance remains modest.
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The ID.3 with an LFP battery requires 48 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%, while the NMC version takes 42 minutes for the same charge level. By comparison, the ID.3 Pure variant sold in Europe supports a peak charging rate of 145 kW and can charge from 10% to 80% in just 25 minutes.
Under the hood, the ID.3 remains unchanged, featuring the 125 kW (168 hp) APP310 electric motor delivering 310 Nm of torque to the rear axle. Energy consumption is rated at 13.4 kWh per 100 km according to CLTC standards. Unlike the European facelifted version introduced in 2023, the Chinese ID.3 retains its original body design, including the familiar diamond-patterned front apron and black hood accent.
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However, Volkswagen has updated the vehicle’s interior in China. The central touchscreen has been enlarged from 10 to 12.9 inches, with an improved button bar for easier operation. The updated model also features a redesigned center console equipped with cup holders and an inductive charging cradle.
The ID.3 has been sold in China through Volkswagen’s joint venture with SAIC since late 2021. While initial sales were sluggish, discount campaigns in 2023 boosted monthly deliveries to as high as 13,000 units, making it one of the country’s best-selling electric Volkswagens. However, sales declined sharply in early 2024, with only 2,623 units sold in January—a 65.5% drop compared to the previous year.
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Volkswagen has further reduced the price of the updated ID.3, undercutting even its 2023 promotional rates. The 2025 model is now available in China at prices ranging from 119,900 to 136,900 yuan ($15,600 to $17,800), regardless of battery type. It remains to be seen whether the revised interior and new LFP battery will be enough to revive sales momentum.
