Volkswagen Unveils the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE: A Hot and Cold Tribute to a 90s Icon

Volkswagen has introduced a striking new model at the ID. Meeting in Locarno, Switzerland—the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE. This one-off creation, a tribute to the iconic Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice, has captivated audiences with its unique design and features, blending past and present in a spectacular fashion.

The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE takes to the skies of Cappadocia, Turkey, alongside an original Golf Mk I and the newly updated Golf Mk 8. This special edition, developed in collaboration with Munich-based luxury sports fashion brand BOGNER, echoes the successful and cult-status Golf Fire and Ice from the 1990s. The original model's surprise success and distinctive style have been reinterpreted for the all-electric era.

A Nod to the Past with a Modern Twist

Volkswagen’s Head of Design, Andreas Mindt, emphasized the emotional impact of the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE: “With the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE, we’re highlighting the emotional appeal of our sporty top model. Our design team enjoyed reimagining the iconic 90s design for a modern audience.”

The concept originated from Volkswagen’s Technical Development team and was brought to life through close cooperation with BOGNER. Tom Becker, Director of BOGNER FIRE+ICE, shared his excitement: “Combining our FIRE+ICE performance brand with the sporty ID.3 GTX is a contemporary take on the classic Golf Fire and Ice. We’ve incorporated many original materials and accessories into the vehicle’s interior.”

Exterior Design: A Bold Statement

The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE stands out with its exclusive 3-layer paint finish in Electric Violet pearl effect, a modern reinterpretation of the original Golf Fire and Ice color. The dark blue base coat features special glass beads that create a dynamic color shift from dark blue to violet and even black, depending on the light. The sporty accents include a Flaming Red roof frame strip and geometric FIRE+ICE foiling along the vehicle’s sides. The 21-inch rims, with their blue anodized paint, complement the dynamic exterior, while the original FIRE+ICE logo adorns the B-pillar and roof edge spoiler.

Interior: A Fusion of Style and Function

Inside, the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE offers a striking contrast between Flaming Red and Ice Blue elements. The seats and interior features incorporate design cues from BOGNER’s FIRE+ICE collections, including quilted upholstery reminiscent of their down jackets. Unique touches include stainless steel accelerator pedals with ‘FIRE+ICE’ logos and laser-engraved patterns on the instrument panel and floor mats. The seats reveal original FIRE+ICE fabric from the 1990s when unzipped, adding a nostalgic touch.

Performance and Technology

Under the hood, the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE boasts Volkswagen’s most powerful electric motor to date, delivering 240 kW (326 PS) and 545 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h. The GTX-specific chassis, equipped with stronger stabilizers and Sport DCC adaptive chassis control, complements the high-performance motor. The 79 kWh lithium-ion battery supports rapid charging with up to 185 kW, allowing it to recharge from 10 to 80 percent in about 26 minutes. With a combined WLTP range of up to 601 km, the ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE combines performance with practicality.

A Tribute to the 1990s

The original Golf Mk2 Fire and Ice, launched in 1990, was a sportily styled and exclusive version of the Golf Mk2. Its unique design, dark violet pearl effect paint, and performance options made it a sought-after model, with 16,700 units sold—surpassing initial production goals.

The ID.3 GTX FIRE+ICE not only celebrates the legacy of the Golf Fire and Ice but also pushes the boundaries of modern automotive design and performance, showcasing Volkswagen’s dedication to blending historical inspiration with cutting-edge technology.