The 2023 VW ID.4 enters the burgeoning electric SUV market with a blend of practicality and modest flair. Aimed at bridging the gap between everyday usability and eco-conscious driving, this latest offering from Volkswagen is stirring curiosity. Is it the electric SUV for the pragmatic commuter, the adventurous road-tripper, or something in between? This review will delve into the specifics to help you decide if the ID.4 lives up to the buzz.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 |
| Body Style | SUV |
| Dimensions | 180.5" L x 72.9" W x 64.2" H |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Battery Capacity | 77 kWh |
| Electric Range | Up to 250 miles (estimated) |
| Powertrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Motor Power | 201 horsepower |
| Torque | 229 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 7.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 99 mph |
| Charging Time (DC Fast) | 10-80% in 38 minutes (estimated) |
| Charging Time (Level 2) | 0-100% in 7.5 hours (estimated) |
| Infotainment System | 10" touchscreen display |
| Connectivity | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth |
| Safety Features | Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, |
| Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitor | |
| Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles (vehicle) |
| 8 years/100,000 miles (battery) |
The Wallet Factor: What's the Damage? (Price)
Let’s cut the jargon—how much is this going to set you back? VW is tossing the ID.4 into the market with a starting price of roughly $40,000. Not too shabby, especially when you’re buying into the future of mobility. But keep your eyes peeled, because optional extras and premium packages can catapult the price past $50,000 quicker than you can say “zero emissions.”
Pick Your Poison: Models Aplenty (Model)
Forget one-size-fits-all; Volkswagen is offering variety, so you’ve got choices to make:
ID.4 Pro: The “Just Getting By” option, if you will. It’s the cheapest, but you’re still getting a solid vehicle.
ID.4 Pro S: The “I’m Doing Well, Thanks” model. Bigger wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and an upgraded interior make this the ‘treat yourself’ option.
ID.4 AWD: And for the “Adventurers and Weekend Warriors,” this model comes with all-wheel drive and a horsepower bump to satiate your off-road cravings.
Timing is Everything: When Can You Get Yours? (Availability)
Now comes the question of when you can park this bad boy in your driveway. If you’re stateside, you’re in luck; the ID.4 is making its way to American soil with a broad release. For those outside the U.S., fret not—the global rollout is also in the cards. Pre-orders are live, and Volkswagen assures us that deliveries will commence in the early half of 2023.
Exterior Design: Striking or Subdued?
Volkswagen isn’t known for making ostentatious cars, but the ID.4 is no wallflower. This SUV has a clean and modern silhouette that says, “I’m here for business, but I know how to party.” The headlights have a futuristic glow that could give a lightsaber a run for its money. Plus, the optional two-tone paint job? That’s the cherry on top of this electric sundae.
Interior Design: A Taste of Tomorrow?
Once you swing open the door, the ID.4 greets you with an atmosphere that’s one part spaceship, one part Scandinavian living room. Sleek, minimalistic, and brimming with tech—this is what the future probably looked like in yesterday’s imaginations. But don’t be fooled; it’s not all touchscreens and mood lighting. Comfort isn’t compromised, thanks to the roomy seats and ergonomically designed cockpit. You’ll even get a nifty central console that can hold anything from your latest kombucha brew to your toddler’s sippy cup.
Aesthetics: Clean but Lacks Drama
First off, the ID.4 doesn’t look like it’s trying too hard to be futuristic, which I appreciate. That said, it doesn’t stir emotions either. This is the peanut butter and jelly of car design—it’s good, but it ain’t caviar.
Inside Story: IKEA Meets Apple
Sliding into the interior feels like you’ve walked into a minimalist Scandinavian design catalog. I dig the clean lines and how straightforward everything is. It’s very user-friendly but lacks a certain ‘wow’ factor.
The Drive: Like That Trusty Old Sneaker
You know that sneaker that looks basic but fits like a dream? The ID.4 drives like that. It’s predictable but in a good, comfortable way. You won’t win drag races, but you’ll enjoy the ride.
Mileage: Could Be a Deal-Breaker
Alright, so here’s the deal—the estimated 250-mile range is just about okay. It does the job for city commutes but falls short if you’re thinking about road-tripping without stressing over the next charging station.
Tech Talk: It’s a Mixed Bag
The infotainment system is slick, with a bunch of useful features. But I’ve got beef with the voice assistant. It felt as though it had been trained by a stubborn parrot—understanding was hit or miss.
So, Is It Worth It?
If you’re looking for a daily driver that’s electric, solid, and won’t empty your bank account, the ID.4 could be your jam. But if you’re looking for a starship on wheels that’ll be the envy of your block, you might want to keep shopping.