Volkswagen ID.4 Review: Is It The Best Electric SUV In The UK?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Volkswagen ID.4, an all-electric SUV that's been making waves in the UK. If you're thinking about making the switch to electric, or just curious about what's out there, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and range to its interior and technology. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What is Volkswagen ID.4?

The Volkswagen ID.4 is a fully electric compact SUV that represents Volkswagen's commitment to electric mobility. It's part of the ID family, which is Volkswagen's dedicated electric vehicle lineup. The ID.4 aims to offer a blend of practicality, comfort, and eco-friendliness, making it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. It's designed to compete with other electric SUVs in the market, such as the Tesla Model Y, Nissan Ariya, and Hyundai Kona Electric. With its sleek design, spacious interior, and impressive range, the ID.4 is definitely a contender worth considering. In the UK, the ID.4 has gained popularity due to its suitability for both urban and long-distance driving, supported by the growing charging infrastructure across the country. Plus, with increasing awareness of environmental issues, more and more people are looking for electric vehicles, and the ID.4 fits the bill perfectly.

Performance and Handling

Let's kick things off with the performance of the Volkswagen ID.4. The ID.4 offers a smooth and quiet driving experience, which is typical of electric vehicles. The electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in quick acceleration. Depending on the model, you can expect a 0-62 mph time of around 8.5 seconds for the base model, while the higher-performance versions can do it in about 6 seconds. That's plenty of pep for everyday driving and overtaking on the motorway. The handling is also quite good, thanks to the low center of gravity provided by the battery pack. This makes the ID.4 feel stable and planted on the road, even around corners. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic. Overall, the ID.4 offers a comfortable and confident driving experience. One of the standout features of the ID.4 is its regenerative braking system. This system captures energy when you lift your foot off the accelerator, helping to recharge the battery and extend the range. You can adjust the level of regenerative braking to suit your driving style, from mild to aggressive. Some drivers find that they can drive using only the accelerator pedal, a technique known as one-pedal driving. This can be a more efficient way to drive and can also reduce wear on the brakes. The ID.4 also comes with different driving modes, such as Eco, Comfort, and Sport. Each mode adjusts the car's settings to optimize for efficiency, comfort, or performance. Eco mode limits the power output to maximize range, while Sport mode unlocks the full potential of the electric motor. Comfort mode provides a balance between efficiency and performance, making it suitable for everyday driving.

Range and Charging

Now, let's talk about something super important for any electric car: the range. The Volkswagen ID.4 offers a pretty decent range, making it practical for both daily commutes and longer trips. Depending on the battery size and model, you can expect a range of around 213 to 323 miles on a single charge. Of course, the actual range will vary depending on factors like driving style, weather conditions, and the use of accessories like air conditioning and heating. But overall, the ID.4's range is competitive with other electric SUVs in its class. When it comes to charging, the ID.4 supports both AC and DC charging. With AC charging, you can use a home charger or a public charging point to replenish the battery overnight. Charging times will vary depending on the charger's output, but typically, it takes around 7-11 hours to fully charge the battery using a 7kW home charger. For faster charging, you can use a DC fast charger. The ID.4 supports DC fast charging up to 125kW, which means you can add around 199 miles of range in about 30 minutes at a compatible charging station. This is super convenient for long journeys when you need to top up quickly. To make charging even easier, Volkswagen offers a We Charge service, which provides access to a network of public charging points across the UK and Europe. The service allows you to find charging stations, check availability, and pay for charging using a single app. This can be a real lifesaver when you're on the road and need to find a reliable charging station. Another thing to keep in mind is that the ID.4 comes with a battery warranty, which typically covers the battery for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This gives you peace of mind knowing that the battery is protected against defects and premature degradation. Overall, the ID.4's range and charging capabilities are well-suited for the needs of most drivers, making it a practical and convenient electric SUV.

Interior and Comfort

Moving inside, the Volkswagen ID.4 boasts a modern and minimalist interior design. The cabin feels spacious and airy, thanks to the large windows and panoramic sunroof (available as an option). The materials used are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and comfortable seats. The overall impression is one of refinement and sophistication. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen display, which houses the infotainment system and various vehicle controls. The system is relatively easy to use, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. However, some users have complained about the lack of physical buttons for certain functions, such as the volume control. The ID.4 also comes with a digital instrument cluster, which displays important information such as speed, range, and navigation directions. The cluster is customizable, allowing you to choose the information that's most relevant to you. One of the standout features of the ID.4's interior is its ambient lighting system. This system allows you to choose from a variety of colors to create a personalized atmosphere in the cabin. The lighting is subtle and elegant, adding a touch of luxury to the interior. The seats in the ID.4 are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys. The front seats are available with heating and massage functions, while the rear seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers. The ID.4 also has a generous amount of cargo space, making it practical for families and individuals who need to carry a lot of gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more space, allowing you to transport larger items. Overall, the ID.4's interior is well-designed and comfortable, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The minimalist design and modern technology give it a premium feel, while the spaciousness and practicality make it suitable for everyday use.

Technology and Features

Let's dive into the tech and features that the Volkswagen ID.4 brings to the table. The ID.4 is packed with technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance systems, and convenient connectivity features. The infotainment system is housed in a large touchscreen display, which is the centerpiece of the dashboard. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. You can use your phone's apps for navigation, music, and communication, all through the car's display. The ID.4 also comes with a voice control system, which allows you to control various functions using voice commands. You can adjust the temperature, change the radio station, or set a navigation destination, all without taking your hands off the wheel. In terms of driver-assistance systems, the ID.4 offers a comprehensive suite of features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems help to make driving safer and more convenient, especially on long journeys. The adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the car in front, while the lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate an accident. The ID.4 also comes with parking sensors and a rearview camera, which make it easier to park in tight spaces. Some models also offer a 360-degree camera, which provides a bird's-eye view of the car and its surroundings. This can be especially helpful when parking in crowded areas. Other notable features of the ID.4 include a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, a head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, and an optional premium sound system. Overall, the ID.4 is well-equipped with technology and features, making it a modern and convenient electric SUV.

Price and Value

Now, let's talk about the Volkswagen ID.4's price and overall value. The ID.4 is competitively priced compared to other electric SUVs in its class. The base model starts at around £40,000, while the higher-spec versions can cost upwards of £50,000. Of course, the exact price will vary depending on the trim level, options, and any available incentives or discounts. When evaluating the ID.4's value, it's important to consider the total cost of ownership. Electric vehicles typically have lower running costs than gasoline cars, due to the lower cost of electricity compared to fuel. You'll also save money on maintenance, as electric cars have fewer moving parts and require less frequent servicing. Additionally, electric vehicles are exempt from certain taxes and charges, such as the London Congestion Charge. Taking all of these factors into account, the ID.4 can be a cost-effective choice in the long run. In terms of features and equipment, the ID.4 offers a good value for money. Even the base model comes with a decent amount of standard equipment, including a touchscreen infotainment system, driver-assistance systems, and comfortable seats. The higher-spec versions add even more features, such as a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Of course, it's always a good idea to compare the ID.4 with other electric SUVs in the market to see which one offers the best value for your needs. Some of the ID.4's main competitors include the Tesla Model Y, Nissan Ariya, and Hyundai Kona Electric. Each of these vehicles has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to do your research and choose the one that best suits your budget and preferences. Overall, the ID.4 offers a compelling combination of price, features, and running costs, making it a good value for money in the electric SUV segment.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the Volkswagen ID.4? Well, after spending some time with it, we can confidently say that it's a fantastic electric SUV. It offers a great blend of performance, range, comfort, and technology. The ID.4 is a well-rounded package that's sure to appeal to a wide range of drivers. Whether you're looking for a practical family car, a comfortable commuter, or an eco-friendly vehicle, the ID.4 has something to offer. Its smooth and quiet driving experience, spacious interior, and impressive range make it a joy to drive and live with. Of course, there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the lack of physical buttons for certain functions and the slightly bland exterior design. But overall, these are minor quibbles that don't detract from the overall excellence of the ID.4. If you're in the market for an electric SUV, we highly recommend checking out the Volkswagen ID.4. It's a strong contender that's well worth considering. Thanks for reading our review, and we hope you found it helpful. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. And don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more car reviews and automotive news. Cheers!