The VW ID. 4 now has an entry-level model with a lower price. It gets around 210 miles of range, less than the other ID. 4 models. The top-of-the-line ID. 4 AWD Pro S has a range of 255 miles or a bit more in the warmer weather during my test. The AWD version adds a second electric motor to the front wheels, so you have more power and better traction.
It is no sports car, but the ID. 4 is peppy when you hit the accelerator. This smaller crossover will tackle corners without any issues and is easy to drive in the city and simple to park in tighter spaces. The brakes feel like you are driving a gas vehicle. However, you can’t drive with one pedal like other EVs.
The Volkswagen ID. 4 is more stylish than most of the other conservatively-styled VW vehicles. Its nothing radical, but features a more modern look as this ID. 4 was designed as an EV model and not an adapted gas car. The sleek LED lighting clusters and a tastefully-sized grill catches your eye. Stylish twenty-inch wheels and an illuminated VW logo adds extra flare and looks cool at night, too.
When you’re inside the ID. 4, you quickly notice the airy feeling in the cabin. There is a lot of light coming in from the large windows and massive panoramic fixed roof (I wish it opened). Comfortable 12-way adjustable seats include massage to help pass the miles or allow you to relax when its charging. VW upgraded the materials for 2023 and it feels and looks nicer than when I first drove the ID. 4 in 2021. There’s no start button, just throw it in drive and go.
The ID. 4 has more technology than other VW models and it can be a bit of a hassle to use at first. Oddly, there are two switches to operate four windows and the control is touchy to switch between front and rear.
Cost: $52,985 as tested
MPG: 104 MPGe city and 93 MPGe highway; I managed 90 MPGe for my week and nearly 500 miles.
Safety: Dynamic road sign assist; adaptive cruise control stop and go; park distance control front and rear; forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitor; lane-keep assist and traffic jam assist; active blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert; high beam control; automatic post-collision braking system
Things to know: The ID. 4 is a serious EV offering from Volkswagen with space and available AWD that allows for more range and power. Or choose a new entry version that offers EV motoring for less money.
Pros:
- 250+ mile range and faster DC charging improves usage possibilities
- Ample space for a small crossover
- Pricing is very competitive for the growing EV, market especially a new entry level model
Cons:
- Just two switches operate four windows, so it can be confusing
- New infotainment system has a learning curve
- Public charging network is still sparse in places, which can be a challenge for long distance travel
