04:59 11-11-2025

ADAC long-term test: Volkswagen ID.3 keeps 91% battery after 169,651 km

ADAC’s four-year trial of 77 kWh Volkswagen ID.3 shows 91% battery health after 169,651 km, 300–400 km range and 10–80% in 30 minutes—proof of EV durability.

Germany’s ADAC has wrapped up a four-year trial of a Volkswagen ID.3 Pro S with the 77 kWh battery, covering 169,651 km. The findings suggest electric cars are tougher than many assume. Despite frequent 100% charges and hard use, the battery still holds 91% of its capacity. That’s above what most would expect, especially given VW’s warranty is capped at 160,000 km—numbers that tend to quiet battery anxiety.

In real-world driving, ADAC reports the ID.3 delivers 300–400 km of range, depending on season and driving style. After updating to software version 3.2, charging performance improved: the pack now goes from 10 to 80% in 30 minutes. Average consumption sits around 18.3 kWh/100 km.

Out on the highway, the car impresses: rear-wheel drive, 204 hp and a 0–100 km/h sprint in 7.9 seconds make for a calm, planted feel. Experts praised its handling, ergonomics and tight turning circle, while criticizing the touch-sensitive controls and sluggish infotainment—an assessment that mirrors everyday experience, where the chassis feels sorted but the touch interface still gets in the way.

Over four years, the ID.3 required two services totaling under 1,000 euros, plus a few minor fixes unrelated to the battery. According to ADAC, it has retained a market value of about 24,000 euros.

Testing will continue to 250,000 km, but the message is already clear: the Volkswagen ID.3 shows an EV can deliver long, dependable service without the shadow of inevitable battery failure.