Introduction and History
The Volkswagen ID.4, an all-electric SUV, was first introduced for sale in 2020. This launch marked Volkswagen’s significant shift towards electric mobility, aligning with global trends towards sustainability and reduced emissions. The ID.4 was built on Volkswagen’s MEB electric vehicle architecture, designed to offer a blend of performance, packaging, and value.
Improvements for the 2024 Model Year
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 has seen several notable improvements. The most significant upgrade is the new performance drive unit for the 82 kWh battery models, which delivers greater horsepower and range for both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants. Additionally, the 2024 model features a new 12.9-inch infotainment display with backlit sliders, enhancing the user experience.
Best Features
The 2024 ID.4 is packed with impressive features that make it standout in the electric SUV market:
- Range and Battery: The ID.4 offers a range of up to 468 km on a single charge, depending on the model. It is equipped with an 82 kWh battery pack.
- Charging Speed: The ID.4 can charge from 10% to 80% in as little as 28 minutes using a DC fast charger.
- Access to No Cost Fast Charging: ID.4 owners receive up to four years or 1,400 kWh of DC Fast Charging at Electrify Canada at no cost.
- Performance: The ID.4 Pro AWD variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, thanks to its 335 hp performance drive unit.
- Driver Assistance: The ID.4 comes with Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane assist, emergency assist, and more.
- Interior and Cargo Space: The ID.4 offers a spacious interior with 2829 litres of passenger volume and 858 litres of cargo capacity.
- Safety: The ID.4 is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. It includes driver and passenger front airbags, plus front and rear Side Curtain Protection with front-side airbags.
- Standard Equipment: The ID.4 includes an impressive list of features as standard equipment on all trim levels, including a heated windshield, automatic LED headlights, wireless device charging, heated washer nozzles, dual zone AC, SiriusXM radio, front & rear floor mats, heated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, tire pressure monitoring system, ambient lighting, auto headlight high-beam, auto emergency braking and more.
Technical Highlights
The 2024 ID.4 boasts several technical highlights:
- New Performance Drive Unit: The 82 kWh battery models now feature a new performance drive unit that delivers up to 335 horsepower for the AWD variant.
- Enhanced Infotainment: The new 12.9-inch infotainment display with backlit sliders provides a more intuitive and user-friendly interface.
- Advanced Driver Assistance: The IQ.DRIVE suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and emergency assist, enhancing safety and convenience.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to competitors, the ID.4 measures up well:
- Hyundai IONIQ 5: The IONIQ 5 offers a slightly longer range and faster charging capabilities. However, the ID.4 provides a more spacious cargo area, with 858 litres behind the rear seats, compared to the IONIQ 5’s 770 litres.
- Tesla Model Y: The Model Y delivers quicker acceleration and a higher top speed. Nonetheless, the ID.4 is popular with consumers who prefer a more traditional interior design and the availability of physical controls.
- Chevrolet Blazer EV: While the Blazer EV is a newcomer with a modern design, the ID.4 benefits from Volkswagen’s established presence in the EV market, offering a refined driving experience and proven reliability.
- Ford Mustang Mach-E: The Mach-E offers sporty performance, but the ID.4 offers a more comfortable ride and a user-friendly infotainment system, appealing to a broad audience.
Detailed Specifications
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay: The ID.4 supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Technology: The includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane assist and emergency assist.
- Range: From 332 to 468 km.
- Battery Pack Size: Either 62 kWh or 82 kWh.
- Maximum Charging Speed: 10%-80% in 28 minutes with a DC fast charger (ID.4 Pro & Pro AWD models only.
- Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds for the Pro AWD variant.
- Braking System: The ID.4 features a 4-wheel ABS with regenerative braking. VW engineers use drum brakes instead of disc brakes on the rear. They believe the drum brakes reduce rolling resistance, improving performance.
- Cargo Capacity: 858 litres, 1818 litres with the rear seat folded.
- Passenger Cabin Size: 2829 litres.
- Full Coverage Warranty: 4 years or 80,000 km.
- Battery & EV Systems Warranty: 8 years or 160,000 km.
- Price Range: The ID.4 is priced competitively in the Canadian market:
- RWD starting at $48,495
- S RWD $50,995
- Pro RWD $52,995
- Pro S RWD $55,495
- Pro AWD $57,995
- Pro S AWD $60,495
Conclusion
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 is a well-rounded electric SUV that combines performance, range, and advanced technology. Its continuous improvements since its introduction make it a strong contender in the EV market, offering a compelling alternative to other electric SUVs. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle or a daily driver, the ID.4’s blend of practicality, comfort, and innovation makes it a worthy choice. It is certainly worthy of a test drive at your local VW dealer.
Images courtesy of Volkswagen of America, Inc. Newspress Limited and Volkswagen Canada.
Eli Oszlak is a Canada-based professional with a diverse career spanning the auto sales and information technology industries. His expertise combines customer-centric strategies in automotive sales with innovative solutions in IT, showcasing his adaptability and results-driven mindset. A true automotive enthusiast, Eli has owned an impressive array of vehicles, including a Corvette, Porsche, VW GTI, Audi A4 Avant, and Audi Q5, reflecting his passion for performance and design. Now embracing the future of mobility, Eli drives a Tesla Model 3 or Tesla Model Y, underscoring his commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology. Residing in Canada, he continues to merge his love for cars and tech in his professional and personal life.
