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If you're deciding between a petrol or electric Volkswagen, this VW Golf vs VW ID.3 review breaks down everything you need to know.
From performance to servicing to overall running costs, we’ll help you compare both models side by side, so you can feel confident you're choosing the right Volkswagen for your lifestyle.
At Pulman, we offer a wide range of new and used Volkswagens in petrol, diesel, hybrid and fully electric variants. This gives you the freedom to choose what suits your driving habits best, and our team is always on hand to guide you through the options. As a family-run, North East-based retailer, we pride ourselves on delivering great service, making sure you drive away in a car that ticks every box.
Volkswagen took everything drivers love about the Golf and reimagined it for the electric VW ID.3, creating a car that feels familiar yet forward-thinking.
While the ID.3 offers an all-electric experience, the Golf continues to impress with its balanced performance, familiar drive, and multiple powertrain options, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Before we explore how these models stack up, let’s discuss plug-in hybrids which is a good in-between option for those undecided about going fully electric.
If you're not quite ready to go fully electric but want to cut down on fuel usage and emissions, a plug-in hybrid like the VW Golf GTE is a great alternative.
The Golf GTE combines a traditional petrol engine with a battery-powered electric motor so you can drive shorter distances (such as your daily commute to work) using electric power alone. However when the battery runs low or you need extra power, the petrol engine automatically takes over, giving you the range and reassurance of a conventional car. This can also make you feel more comfortable as it will feel more familiar.
In short, the Golf GTE is a great middle ground between the flexibility of a petrol Golf and the modern, fully electric experience of the ID.3. It’s an ideal choice for drivers who want to reduce their environmental impact without going all-in on electric just yet.
In the review below, we’re primarily focusing on the petrol variant of the VW Golf vs the fully electric VW ID.3.
Both the Golf and the ID.3 deliver strong performance, but in different ways.
Petrol versions of the Golf start from 115 PS (85 kW), offering smooth, reliable power that’s well-suited to everyday driving. Sportier trims add extra punch, while the overall drive remains responsive, making it ideal for both daily commutes and longer motorway journeys.
In comparison, the electric ID.3 Pro produces around 170 PS (125 kW) and benefits from instant torque, delivering quick acceleration and agile handling, particularly in urban settings.
When it comes to speed, the Golf (petrol) reaches 0-62 mph in around 9.9 seconds, while the ID.3 Pro completes the same sprint in around 7.3 seconds. While the ID.3 is initially quicker, the Golf offers the more familiar driving experience many drivers enjoy.
Fuel costs are where electric vehicles really win, but the difference lies in how and where you drive.
The petrol-powered Golf usually costs around 45p per mile to run, making it a good choice for longer journeys where charging options can be limited.
In contrast, when charging the ID.3 at home, you can get costs down to as little as 2p per mile! If charging at petrol stations however, that price is often closer to 25p per mile.
For drivers with off-street parking and regular short commutes, the ID.3 offers a clear advantage in day-to-day savings. It’s worth noting that plug-in hybrids can help bridge the gap between petrol and electric.
When it comes to maintenance, the Golf and ID.3 follow different schedules thanks to their composition.
The petrol Golf requires servicing every 12 months or 10,000 miles (whichever comes first), with standard upkeep such as oil changes, spark plug replacements, and exhaust system checks. It’s a familiar and straightforward process for most car owners.
Moving over to the ID.3, it has far fewer moving parts and therefore lower maintenance needs. It only needs servicing every 24 months or 20,000 miles thanks to there being no oil or exhaust systems to maintain.
An added advantage is regenerative braking that reduces brake wear, offering long-term savings on servicing and repairs.
Pricing for the VW Golf starts from £28,150 for petrol models, with a range of trims available to suit different preferences. So whether you're after something practical and efficient or sportier and tech-packed, there’s an option for you.
It also comes well-equipped as standard, with features such as infotainment systems, safety tech, and driver assistance tools.
Meanwhile the ID.3 starts from £30,860, with prices varying based on battery size and trim level. Inside, you’ll find a minimalist interior with a large touchscreen and modern digital interface.
Both models include advanced features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist, with additional tech available on higher trims.
Factor | VW Golf (Petrol) | VW ID.3 (Electric) |
Starting Price | From £28,150 | From £30,860 |
Fuel Type | Petrol | Electric |
Power Output | From 115 PS | From 170 PS |
Acceleration (0–62 mph) | From 9.9 sec | From 7.3 sec |
Running Cost (per mile) | Approx 45p | 2p–25p (depending on charging method) |
Road Tax | £195 | £0 (or £620 if list price exceeds £40,000) |
Servicing Frequency | Every 12 months or 10,000 miles | Every 24 months or 20,000 miles |
Maintenance Costs | Higher (more moving parts) | Lower (fewer moving parts) |
Boot Space | Up to 1,274 litres | Up to 1,601 litres |
Is the Golf available as a hybrid?
Yes, the VW Golf is available as a plug-in hybrid in the form of the Golf GTE. This model combines a 1.4-litre TSI petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver strong performance while also reducing fuel consumption.
How powerful is the VW ID.3?
The VW ID.3 offers different power outputs depending on the trim and battery size, but the most common versions offer around 204 PS (201 bhp). This means you can enjoy smooth acceleration thanks to the electric motor's torque, and a driving experience that feels quick and responsive.
What are the servicing intervals for each?
Generally the VW Golf requires a service every 10,000 miles or 12 months - whichever comes first. This helps keep everything working in good condition. As the VW ID.3 is fully electric, it has fewer moving parts and doesn’t need oil changes or exhaust system checks meaning it only needs servicing every 20,000 miles or 24 months.
How do the Golf and ID.3 compare on acceleration?
The petrol VW Golf offers smooth acceleration, with 0-62 mph times starting from around 9.9 seconds depending on the engine variant. The fully electric ID.3 accelerates more quickly thanks to its instant torque, with the Pro version reaching 0-62 mph in around 7.3 seconds.
The VW Golf and VW ID.3 both have a lot to offer; it just depends on what you’re looking for.
The Golf is tried and tested, with broad appeal, traditional driving feel and strong spec whereas the ID.3 is modern, efficient and a great step into electric driving.
If you're curious about how an EV drives, book a free 24-hour test drive with Pulman and experience it for yourself. There’s no pressure; just a chance to get behind the wheel and see what suits you best.Text here ...
