Last week, we had the opportunity to test drive one of Volkswagen’s best-selling electric vehicles, the ID.4 Pro. Designed as a compact SUV, it caters to a wide audience with its blend of affordability and practicality.
Volkswagen’s decision to introduce the ID.4 to the South African market couldn’t have come at a better time. With local demand for SUVs soaring and curiosity about electric vehicles on the rise, the ID.4 promises to make a significant impact.
What is the ID.4 and Where Does It Fit in the Current Car Market?
The ID.4 Pro is Volkswagen’s latest entry into the fully electric compact SUV segment. In South Africa, it competes directly with models like the Mercedes EQA 250 and the popular Volvo XC40 Recharge. Boasting a sleek design with a drag coefficient of 0.28, thanks to its rounded styling, the ID.4 stands out from its rivals. Unlike the Mercedes EQA, it’s built on the innovative MEB platform, designed exclusively for electric vehicles.
Interior, Technology, and Practicality
Stepping inside the ID.4 reveals a surprisingly spacious cabin, a benefit of its electric architecture with most components situated under the floor. Volkswagen has maximized this space effectively, offering ample legroom and a generous boot capacity of 543 liters.
The interior design is minimalist yet functional, featuring a mix of high-quality materials. Controls for climate and infotainment blend physical and capacitive interfaces. It boasts a 10-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via USB-C ports. Additional comfort features include a wireless charging pad, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel, which was just perfect for the cold rainy day of the launch.
Performance, Powertrains, and Driving Experience
Powering the ID.4 Pro is a 77 kWh battery pack paired with a rear-mounted electric motor, delivering a total output of 150 kW and 350 Nm of torque. This setup enables the ID.4 Pro to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, making it brisk in urban environments. Volkswagen claims an impressive driving range of approximately 500 kilometers on a full charge, positioning the ID.4 Pro competitively among its peers.
Volkswagen openly acknowledged that the current tested ID.4 is not designed for driving on gravel or unpaved terrain. This limitation stems from technical factors like insufficient off-road undercarriage protection and ride height. However, Volkswagen has assured that the next model iteration will be equipped to handle all types of road conditions commonly found in South Africa.
During our test drive, the ID.4 exhibited refined on-road handling akin to other premium Volkswagen models. It rides on 19-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels that provide a smooth and balanced ride quality, despite initial concerns on paper about their size.
Battery and Charging
The ID.4 is equipped for both home and fast charging. It supports AC charging up to 11 kW, ideal for overnight charging at home, and DC fast charging up to 150 kW. Charging from 0 to 80% takes approximately 35-40 minutes.
Behind the Wheel
Behind the wheel, the ID.4 exudes luxury and refinement, offering a quiet and spacious cabin that emphasizes comfort. While not a sports car, its acceleration is steady, though some drivers may notice slight body roll during cornering. The braking system, while functional, requires more pressure than expected for optimal response, reflecting its focus on efficiency over sportiness.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing details are yet to be disclosed, but the ID.4’s early introduction aims to gauge consumer interest and gather feedback ahead of its full-scale release.
Volkswagen plans to officially launch the ID.4 in South Africa in 2025, with current availability limited to media testing and select dealers offering short-term leasing options.
Verdict
The Volkswagen ID.4 Pro presents a compelling new option in South Africa’s evolving electric vehicle landscape. With its blend of practicality, stylish design, and competitive performance metrics, it stands poised to resonate with local consumers seeking a modern, eco-friendly SUV. As infrastructure and consumer interest in electric vehicles grow, the ID.4 promises to play a pivotal role in Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
