Volkswagen is one of the largest automotive groups in the world, which means the manufacturer simply cannot afford any mistakes when it comes to electric vehicles, as all eyes are on them. Fortunately, the brand has had a major success with the ID.4, which has been very successful since its market debut.
There aren't many new features for the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, but that's perfectly fine as the model is still very modern and popular in its current form.
Range and Price
The ID.4 is eligible for government incentives for electric vehicle purchases, allowing you to save even more.
The starting price of the model is $51,210 before rebates. In total, the German manufacturer's SUV offers six different versions, with the MSRP of the most expensive one being $63,210. Therefore, it's safe to say that few buyers stick to the base version.
Category and Competition
Although electric vehicles are becoming more numerous, there aren't as many choices as in the gasoline vehicle segment. Fortunately, some models are very interesting, like the ID.4, which was one of the first vehicles to seriously compete with Tesla in my opinion. The German manufacturer's small SUV has everything it takes to please.
Rivals: Chevrolet Equinox EV, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Kona, Kia EV6, Mazda MX-30, Nissan Ariya, Subaru Solterra, Toyota bZ4X, Vinfast VF8.
Design and Technologies
Volkswagen had a doubly difficult task with the creation of its ID electric vehicle line. The manufacturer aimed for a look that is both modern and retro. Several concepts were presented before a production model hit the market. The first vehicle sold under this name was the ID.4, a compact SUV that is highly desirable.
As for the look, the German manufacturer didn't take too many risks by opting for a dynamic and elegant silhouette. In fact, there is some risk as this kind of design can quickly become anonymous if nothing is done to the front end. Fortunately, the brand's designers did their homework, giving us a front end with character and some sportiness. However, the element that draws the most attention is the front lighting. The logo is illuminated along with a strip running across the grille, giving the ID.4 a truly interesting look at night.
Inside, Volkswagen has also done an excellent job. You find yourself in a futuristic model that feels comfortable. The quality of the finish is generally good, and it's also a very well-insulated vehicle. The ergonomics have been well thought out, and the German SUV's cabin is very spacious.
Regarding technologies, the ID.4 offers premium ambient lighting and its multimedia system is particularly pleasant to use. The dashboard could have been a bit larger though.
Performance
The German manufacturer's SUV offers three mechanical options, starting with the standard range version. This one has a 62 kWh battery pack, which allows it to store enough energy to offer an average range of 336 kilometers from a full charge. This is paired with an electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque.
Next is the PRO version with two-wheel drive. This one also features a single electric motor with 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. However, its battery pack capacity increases to 82 kWh, which positively impacts its range. This stands at 443 kilometers from a full charge, which is starting to get more interesting.
Finally, there is the PRO version with all-wheel drive. Here, you get a combination of two electric motors for a total power of 295 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. Of course, it uses the 82 kWh battery pack. As for range, it is slightly lower than the two-wheel drive PRO version, at 410 kilometers.
What makes the Volkswagen ID.4 particularly interesting is its towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, which is significantly more than average, especially for an electric vehicle.
Weak Points
The driving experience lacks a bit of excitement. The cabin is very minimalist, and the dashboard is a bit small for my taste.
Strong Points
It is a very versatile and functional vehicle. Its standard equipment is impressive, and it is among the most affordable electric models on the market. The ID.4 is elegant, especially thanks to its exterior lighting that makes it easy to identify on the road.
Signature Element
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a futuristic model with a nice presentation. It is thanks to this vehicle that the ID family has been able to take off so quickly and spectacularly.
Final Word
Models are starting to diversify in the electric vehicle segment, but it's hard to find one as serious and complete as the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4. The German manufacturer's SUV offers several powertrain options and has everything it takes to please. In short, it's no wonder you see them everywhere.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
