Volkswagen ID.4: 5 things to know

Volkswagen is one of the leading automakers in the industry that has introduced a dedicated range of  EV models. Dubbed as Intelligent Design (ID), the German marque’s EV series comprises several models such as ID.3, ID.4, ID.5, ID.6, ID.Buzz and more. Of these Volkswagen EVs, Malaysia will soon be getting the ID.4 SUV that has recently previewed at the 2022 Volkswagen Fest in the country.

The automaker offers the electric SUV in several versions in the global market, including Pure, Pro, Pure Performance, Pro Performance, Pro 4Motion, and GTX. However, the only model showcased on the local platform was the Pro Performance, for which interested folks can now register their interest on the company’s official website as well. 

Let’s know five important things about the upcoming Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV -

Positioned between Tiguan and Tiguan Allspace

As the brand’s second EV model based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform, the ID.4 slots between the 5-seater Tiguan and 7-seater Tiguan Allspace in the brand’s global lineup. Dimensionally, it is 4,584 mm long, 1,852 mm wide, and 1,612 mm tall, and has a 2,766 mm long wheelbase. The boot capacity of the EV measures 543 litres while the ground clearance is pegged at a lofty 210 mm. 

Drive range of up to 519 km

The Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Performance comes equipped with a rear-wheel-drive electric motor that cranks out a maximum power output of 204 PS and a peak torque of 310 Nm. The motor is fed by a 77-kWh battery pack that allows the SUV to run for up to 519 km (WLTP cycle) on a single charge. 

With the help of a DC 125 kW fast charger, it can charge from 5% to 80% in 38 minutes. The standard 7.2 kW AC 1-phase socket takes 12 hours 40 minutes for a full charge while the AC 3-phase 11 kW completes the same task in 7 hours 30 minutes.

In terms of performance, the upcoming German electric SUV runs from zero to 100 kmph in 8.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 160 kmph. 

Striking road presence 

The ID.4 is truly something to behold, thanks to its striking silhouette paired with clean lines and aerodynamic elements. The front end is dominated by a blanked-out front grille, sleek LED Matrix headlights with wraparound LED daytime running lights, a light strip running across the car’s width and a wide, central air dam. Towards the rear lies the sharp LED tail lights linked with an LED light bar. The EV runs on 19-inch alloy wheels.

Loaded with smart technologies

Modern-day electric cars are full of smart technologies and the Volkswagen ID.4 is no exception. It is loaded with the following tech goodies -

• 12-inch touchscreen infotainment unit
• Three-zone Air Care Climatronic system
• Dynamic Light Assist
• Surround lighting with welcome light
• Discover Pro” Navigation System
• Dynamic Road Sign Display
• Progressive steering
• Stainless steel pedals with play and pause symbols
• Wireless mobile phone charging
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• 30-colour Ambient Lighting
• Dynamic Chassis Control
• Adaptive Cruise Control with stop & go
• Area view 360° camera
• Auto Emergency Braking Front Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Monitoring
• Easy Open & Close
• Active front seats with electric adjustment
• Pneumatically-adjustable lumbar supports in front with massage feature
• Proactive passenger protection system in Combination with front assist
• Travel Assist, Lane Assist, and Emergency Assist
• Side Assist with lane change system
• Park Assist plus with memory feature

Compete against the Korean EVs

The upcoming German SUV will rival the likes of the recently launched Korean EVs in the local market, which include the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. The top-spec Ioniq 5 is priced at RM 270,408 and offers a driving range of 430 km while the Kia EV6 (available in a single trim), which retails for RM 300,668 can run for 506 km on a full charge. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 price for Malaysia is yet to be announced by VPCM.

Are you excited about the Volkswagen ID.4 launch in Malaysia? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Also read: Volkswagen to become an all-electric car brand in Europe by 2033