The ID.3 Pro and Pro S models, while capable of producing 228bhp, are supplied with 201bhp as standard.

To access the additional 27bhp and increase the maximum torque from 265Nm to 310Nm, owners can opt for a subscription costing £16.50 per month or £165 annually, following a one-month free trial. A one-off lifetime purchase is also available for £649, which is tied to the vehicle and remains active even if the car is sold, Auto Express reports.

Volkswagen states the upgrade does not affect the car’s official range. As the vehicle is registered from the factory with the higher 228bhp output, owners will not need to inform their insurance provider of the change.

Defending the move, the firm likened it to the long-standing practice of offering different power outputs for the same engine size in petrol and diesel cars. VW stated this provides customers with greater flexibility, allowing them to opt for a “sportier driving experience” during the car’s life rather than committing to a higher purchase price from the outset.

This “feature-as-a-service” model is part of a growing trend in the automotive industry. BMW previously faced criticism for offering heated seats via subscription, while Polestar offers a similar purchasable performance upgrade for its Polestar 2 model.