Is the VW ID.3 GTX Fire & Ice the Ultimate Collector’s EV Hot Hatch?

Today, we are exploring a very special electric vehicle: the VW ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice edition. This limited-run EV is a direct tribute to the iconic 1990s Fire and Ice Golf Mark 2, and Volkswagen only built 191 of these cars, making it a potential future collector's item. 

In this review, we break down what makes this GTX so special: 

• • Performance: It features a 79 kWh battery in the floor and a performance package pushing 240 kilowatts (around 326 to 330 horsepower). 
  • Unique Styling: The exterior boasts special Violet paint, 21-inch paint-matched GTX wheels, dramatic side skirts, and a unique Fire and Ice rear spoiler sticker. 
  • Interior Details: The cabin features an asymmetrical color scheme with red stitching and accents on the driver's side and blue on the passenger's side. 
  • Loaded with Tech: It comes fully loaded with a 360 camera, Matrix high beams, Travel Assist with map data integration, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a head-up display. 
  • Hidden Quirks: We even reveal a completely hidden tow hook tucked away behind the rear license plate! 

While we love the spacious rear seating and the massaging seats, we also discuss a few drawbacks, like the touch buttons on the steering wheel and the lack of an all-wheel-drive option. Subscribe so you don't miss the next episode!

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A transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.

[Image: YouTube Screenshot]

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Summary: Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice Edition

This episode of VW ID Talk showcases the limited-edition Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice, a high-performance electric hatchback that pays tribute to the iconic Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice special edition from the 1990s.

Highlights

• • Limited-production tribute: The Fire and Ice edition is finished in a unique violet paint with red accents, inspired by the original Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice. Volkswagen built 1,990 examples, matching the tribute year, making it a potentially collectible model.
  • Performance: The featured car is the ID.3 GTX Performance, producing approximately 240 kW (326 hp) from its electric motor. It uses Volkswagen's 79-kWh battery, delivering strong acceleration while retaining everyday usability.
  • Exterior styling: Unique design elements include:
  • Paint-matched 20-inch GTX wheels
  • Red accent trim and aggressive side skirts
  • Fire-and-Ice-themed C-pillar graphics
  • Darkened animated taillights
  • Special rear spoiler decal
  • GTX-specific front bumper with honeycomb detailing
  • Technology and driver assistance: The fully equipped model includes:
  • Matrix LED headlights
  • 360-degree camera
  • Travel Assist with map-based predictive driving
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Semi-autonomous driving functions for relaxed highway travel
  • Practicality: Despite its sporty focus, the ID.3 remains practical:
  • Spacious cargo area
  • Hidden removable tow hitch behind the rear license plate
  • Comfortable rear-seat space exceeding that of a Golf
  • Good outward visibility thanks to large side windows
  • Interior: The Fire and Ice theme continues inside with:
  • Red driver's seat accents and stitching
  • Blue passenger seat accents and stitching
  • Harman Kardon premium audio
  • Head-up display
  • Heated, electrically adjustable massage seats
  • Latest Volkswagen software (version 5.6)

Criticisms

The reviewer praises the car overall but points out several lingering usability issues:

• • Volkswagen's touch-sensitive steering wheel controls remain frustrating, with accidental activation of features like the heated steering wheel.
  • The touch controls make it too easy to unintentionally change cruise-control speed.
  • Certain touch-based dashboard controls continue to feel out of place in a premium vehicle.

Driving impressions

After driving the car for several hundred miles in various weather conditions, including rain and nighttime driving, the reviewer concludes that the ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice successfully balances everyday comfort with spirited performance. The matrix headlights, driver-assistance systems, comfortable cabin, and strong electric powertrain make it an enjoyable daily driver. However, the reviewer notes that those wanting better traction in poor weather may prefer Volkswagen's dual-motor AWD models such as the ID.4 GTX or ID.5 GTX.

Overall conclusion

The Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice combines exclusive styling, impressive performance, modern technology, and everyday practicality into a distinctive limited-edition EV. While the touch controls remain a weak point, the reviewer considers it one of the most appealing versions of the ID.3 and a fitting homage to the classic Fire and Ice Golf.

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