Overview

• VW’s UK configurator shows entry-level ID.3 variants capped at 201bhp but offers an “optional power upgrade” to reach 228bhp.
• The paywall upgrade costs £16.50 per month, £165 per year or a £649 vehicle-tied lifetime unlock that remains with the car.
• Volkswagen states the subscription increases power by 27bhp and torque to 310Nm while leaving the EV’s driving range unchanged.
• Consumer and insurance experts warn that the gap between advertised specs and unpurchased output may trigger policy revisions and depress resale values.
• Hacking attempts to bypass the software limit could void warranties and invite legal scrutiny, with no public regulatory response yet.