Volkswagen’s Electric Nostalgia: The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE Channels the Spirit of the 1990 Golf II in a Futuristic Package

The VW ID.3 GTX Fire+Ice set for release in 2024 sports a vintage design, reminiscent of the iconic 1990 Golf II model. Among Golf II enthusiasts, this model is considered a rare gem, much like the proverbial "blue Mauritius" stamp, though in this case, it's more of a purple rarity: the legendary "Fire and Ice" special edition from 1990. Volkswagen recently unveiled the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE at the ID. meet in Locarno, Switzerland. This one-of-a-kind vehicle was designed in collaboration with fashion brand Bogner, just like the original.

In 1990, Volkswagen unveiled a special edition of the Golf II known as "Fire and Ice," which offered a blend of sportiness and luxury comfort. This model's aesthetic was a collaboration with the fashion designer and director Willy Bogner. It featured a distinctive look, with a Dark Violet pearl effect paint job, alloy wheels, a front spoiler, and body extensions. With engine options ranging from 90 to 160 horsepower, the Golf Fire and Ice, especially in its GTI variant, quickly became a sought-after collector's item.

Photo Gallery: Volkswagen ID. 3 GTX FIRE+ICE

The vehicle emerged as an unexpected hit with a total of 16,700 units sold, surpassing the initial projection of 10,000 units. The concept for this new edition originated from the technical development team. Similar to the collaboration for the Golf II Fire and Ice, the Volkswagen designers teamed up with Bogner. Tom Becker, Director of BOGNER FIRE+ICE, stated, "What's unique is our ability to incorporate many of our signature materials and accessories into the vehicle's interior."

Andreas Mindt, Head of Design at Volkswagen, expressed, "The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE exemplifies the intense passion embodied in our high-performance flagship model. Our design team immensely enjoyed reviving and evolving the iconic design of the 90s."

Volkswagen Golf II Fire & Ice and ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE Editions

The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE model really pops due to its unique triple-layer paint job that features a glass bead effect. The paint color, Electric Violet Pearl Effect, was specially formulated for this one-of-a-kind vehicle and serves as a modern twist on the classic Golf II Fire and Ice exterior paint. This triple-layer paint includes a dark blue base coat augmented with special glass beads, creating a dynamic color effect and a distinctive personality. Depending on the lighting, the color shifts from dark blue to violet, and it may even appear black.

The roof frame strip features a vibrant Flaming Red anodized paint, adding a touch of athleticism to the vehicle's appearance. On the sides, the vehicle is adorned with a semi-transparent matte wrap showcasing the FIRE+ICE geometric pattern. Adding to its distinctiveness are the 21-inch rims, enhanced with a blue anodized finish and a glossy twist that accentuates the car's overall look. The B-pillar and the roof edge spoiler are embellished with the classic FIRE+ICE logo from the 1990s.

The interior features a dual-tone color scheme. The driver's side and the corresponding rear seat are dominated by a Flaming Red accent color, representing "FIRE," which is evident in the seats and stitching details. On the other hand, the passenger side seats and interior elements are adorned with Ice Blue ("ICE") designs. Additionally, the stainless steel pedals depart from the familiar Play/Pause design seen in the ID. family, showcasing a unique FIRE+ICE pattern instead.

Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice Edition

Volkswagen ID.3 GTX Fire and Ice Edition

Acceleration is engaged by pressing the "FIRE" emblem, while deceleration is initiated by stepping on the "ICE" emblem. The dashboard's upper section and the floor mats have also been customized with a laser-engraved "FIRE+ICE" pattern. Drawing inspiration from the Bogner FIRE+ICE collections, a variety of colors, fabrics, and details have been incorporated. The quilted seats reflect the design of current FIRE+ICE down jackets, including the iconic B-shaped zippers. When unzipped on the seats, the original fabric from the 1990s is revealed. Additionally, straps from bags in the FIRE+ICE collection have been repurposed behind the front seats.

The FIRE+ICE edition features the most powerful electric motor Volkswagen has offered in the ID.3 GTX Performance, delivering 240 kW (326 hp) and a peak torque of 545 Nm. This electric motor propels the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in merely 5.7 seconds. The acceleration is electronically capped at a top speed of 200 km/h.

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The drive system's exceptionally high performance is complemented by a GTX-specific suspension that's been fortified with enhanced stabilizers and includes an adaptive suspension control known as Sport-DCC. Power is provided by a 79 kWh net capacity lithium-ion battery, which can be charged at DC fast-charging stations with a power output of up to 185 kW. With such charging power, the battery can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 26 minutes. The vehicle's combined WLTP range extends up to 601 kilometers.

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