The Volkswagen ID.4 is an all-electric SUV that offers a warm and familiar feel. It’s built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and has a similar size to gas-powered SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Rogue. The ID.4 was one of the first SUV alternatives to the Tesla Model X when it was introduced in 2020. Its main selling points are its affordable price and spacious interior, packaged in a sleek and modern design.
Base models of the ID.4 are equipped with a single motor that delivers 201 horsepower and offers rear-wheel drive. These models have an EPA-estimated range of up to 275 miles. For those who prioritize performance, there is a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version available that produces 295 horsepower and offers a larger battery, resulting in an estimated range of 255 miles.
One of the downsides of the ID.4 is its slower DC-fast charging compared to its competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. However, with a starting price just above $40,000, the ID.4 offers ample space, attractive design, and a relaxed driving experience that can make transitioning from traditional gas-powered vehicles to electric vehicles easier.
For the 2024 model year, Volkswagen has not made any significant changes to the ID.4. The pricing for different trim levels is as follows: Standard ($41,000), Standard S ($46,000), Pro S ($51,000), and Pro S Plus ($53,000). While the Standard model is the most budget-friendly option, we recommend going for the mid-range Pro model for better range and the ability to fast charge at public terminals. The Pro model also offers the option of all-wheel drive and a larger battery for improved performance without sacrificing too much range.
In terms of engine and performance, the ID.4’s single motor produces 201 horsepower, while the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive model ramps it up to 295 horsepower. The ID.4 has a maximum towing capacity of 2700 pounds. While it offers regenerative braking to recapture energy, it lacks the one-pedal driving capability that is often found in other electric vehicles. The acceleration is not as punchy as some of its competitors, but the ID.4 delivers a smooth and refined ride quality.
When it comes to range and battery life, the ID.4’s optional 77.0-kWh battery pack can power the rear-wheel-drive version for up to 275 miles, which is in line with other electric SUVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV. However, it falls short compared to the Tesla Model Y’s 330 miles of estimated range. The ID.4 can be charged at home using 110- or 240-volt connections and is also capable of DC fast-charging. The cheaper Standard model comes with a smaller 58-kWh battery and a shorter 208-mile driving range.
In terms of fuel economy, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 Pro S has an EPA rating of 104 MPGe in the city and 89 MPGe on the highway. The rear-wheel-drive Pro model is slightly more efficient with ratings of 107 MPGe in the city and 91 MPGe on the highway. In our testing, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 achieved 82 MPGe during highway driving and had a range of 190 miles.
The interior of the ID.4 offers a contemporary design with high-tech features, ambient lighting, and generous cargo space. The design is clean and playful, with standard cloth seats that have heat for the front occupants. Upgrading to the Pro S model brings faux-leather upholstery and 12-way power adjustable front seats with memory. The ID.4 has ample cargo space, with the ability to fit eight carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 26 total with the seats folded.
For infotainment and connectivity, the ID.4 comes with a 12.0-inch touchscreen display. While the interface is the latest from VW, it can be a bit fussy compared to previous-generation software. Navigation is standard, as are wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models also come with a 5.3-inch reconfigurable digital gauge display and voice-recognition capability.
The ID.4 is equipped with a range of standard and optional driver-assistance features for safety. For more information about its crash-test results, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Volkswagen offers an above-average limited warranty and below-average powertrain coverage compared to rival non-luxury brands. The ID.4’s electric components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles, and there is also two years or 20,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
In summary, the Volkswagen ID.4 is an all-electric SUV that offers a comfortable and familiar driving experience. It has an affordable starting price, spacious interior, and an attractive design. While it may not offer the fastest charging or the longest range compared to some competitors, the ID.4 delivers a smooth and refined ride quality.