Volkswagen has cast uncertainty over the anticipated arrival of the ID.3 battery-electric hatchback in Australia, refraining from providing a confirmed timeline for its launch.
While the company has not dismissed the possibility of introducing the ID.3 altogether, Volkswagen has indicated that it will not be making the vehicle available locally beyond 2024 — the most recent estimate it had provided.
In response to inquiries about the potential local launch of the ID.3, Paul Pottinger, General Manager of Corporate Communications for Volkswagen Group Australia, simply stated, “I don’t know.”
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Daniel DeGasperi, Volkswagen Group Australia’s Product and PR Communications Manager, remarked on the shifting landscape, stating, “When we initially evaluated the ID.3, we anticipated that the ID.4 would carry a significantly higher price point.”
It’s important to note that Volkswagen Australia has yet to confirm pricing details for the ID.4, even as its launch approaches in March of next year.
“The medium SUV segment is where we see the most opportunity. Additionally, our group strategy includes the Cupra Born in the small segment, which diminishes the logic of positioning the ID.3 just below the ID.4,” DeGasperi added.
Pottinger explained that the situation regarding the ID.3 is constantly evolving, encapsulating the need to remain adaptable to changing circumstances.
Unveiled in 2019, the Volkswagen ID.3 marked the debut of the automaker’s MEB platform designed for electric vehicles. Following a mid-cycle update in 2023, its expected launch timeline in Australia was initially slated for late 2024, a timeframe that is no longer applicable.
The recent update introduced refreshed exterior aesthetics, supplemented soft-touch surfaces within the cabin, and an upgraded 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, among other enhancements.
Moreover, a recent improvement has integrated the IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT technology and introduced a new Pro S trim, offering extended range, increased power, and expedited charging.
While the ID.3 and ID.4 were initially set to be Volkswagen’s first electric offerings in Australia, that distinction now belongs to the ID. Buzz, which has just commenced its rollout, with customer deliveries expected later this year.
The launch of the ID.4 SUV and the ID.5 coupe SUV has faced numerous delays but is currently confirmed for March 2025.
For those interested, further insights can be found in our comprehensive coverage of the Volkswagen ID.3.
Source:www.carexpert.com.au