In Germany, the Volkswagen ID.3 Struggles and is Discounted to €29,760

Since the removal of the ecological bonus in Germany, electric vehicles are no longer appealing, and Volkswagen is marking down its cars.

It’s not just the ID.3 that is causing issues for Volkswagen in its electric range… but all of its models. Thus, we see that in October 2024, all electric ranges are being heavily discounted across the Rhine. Already, the manufacturer is offering 3,570 euros off all its non-thermal models, and has also introduced new finishes unknown in France at very, very low starting prices. The case of the sexy ID.Buzz is telling.

Thus, the ID.4 starts at 36,765 euros compared to 43,990 euros in France. A significant difference at the expense of the German manufacturer, because in France, this price can drop below 40,000 euros thanks to the ecological bonus of 4,000 euros… funded by the taxpayer. This proves that manufacturers no longer need it to offer affordable cars. The Barnier government understands this well and is waiting a few more days (and the Paris Motor Show?) to reduce the 2025 bonus to around 3,000 euros and to a threshold of not 47,000 euros, but likely 40,000 euros.

The ID.3 at the price of a Renault Mégane EV40

For a long time, the ID.3 was priced like a Tesla Model Y Rear-Wheel Drive. This indicates a misalignment in positioning, especially since the interior finish of Volkswagens, made of hard plastic, is now hardly flattering. In Germany, the commercial flop is massive, and measures had to be found to avoid halting production lines.

This led to the introduction of the Pur finish sold from 33,330 euros before the Volkswagen bonus of 3,570 euros. This results in a final price of 29,760 €. At this price, don’t expect a vehicle with a flashy design: Costa Azul metallic color, plastic wheel covers. Any optional color immediately adds a minimum of 810 euros to the price, so…

Factually, the product is not uninteresting with generous equipment and a sound technical sheet. This ID.3 Pur benefits from the old 52 kWh battery capable of delivering up to 388 km of range, translating to 250 km of real-world driving on the highway. The power is reduced to 125 kW (170 hp), but this is more than enough for everyday use, with a 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.2 seconds. Finally, the charging speed is quite good with up to 145 kW peak.

However, the problem with this Volkswagen ID.3 is not resolved, as Chinese competitors, regardless of new customs tariffs in Europe, will always be able to offer better, sexier, more connected options for less money. A paradigm shift must occur at Volkswagen, both technically and commercially, to hope for a viable future.

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