The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 is a purpose-built electric compact SUV that combines practicality, technology, and value. Assembled in Chattanooga, Tennessee, it rides on Volkswagen’s dedicated MEB electric vehicle architecture, thereby marrying the strengths of an EV with performance, packaging, and features that have marked the brand for decades.
What’s New for 2024
For 2024, the ID.4 receives some significant upgrades, especially to the higher-trim 82 kWh battery models. Specifically, a new performance drive unit boosts horsepower and torque for improved acceleration and range. Additionally, the 82 kWh models also get an enhanced 12.9-inch infotainment display with backlit touch sliders and a revised menu interface. Furthermore, other changes include ventilated front seats on the S trim, premium audio on S Plus models, and wheel design updates.
Exterior Design
With its clean, aerodynamic styling, the ID.4’s exterior represents a move towards the future while nodding to Volkswagen’s iconic design heritage. For instance, the front features sculpted intakes and LED lighting signatures, while the profile is defined by a sleek greenhouse and strong character lines. Moreover, the rear highlights integrated LED taillights and the illuminated VW logo (S Plus trims). Thoughtfully, details like flush door handles and an aluminum underbody panel reduce drag for a 0.28 coefficient of drag.
Interior and Cargo Space
The ID.4 provides a modern, airy cabin with meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. To begin with, a floating dashboard integrates Volkswagen’s ID.Cockpit digital instrument display, while the center console houses wireless charging and ample storage. Additionally, higher trims add premium features like massaging seats and 30-color ambient lighting. Despite this, the ID.4 offers generous passenger space along with up to 64.2 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded, despite its compact footprint.
Battery and Range
The ID.4 is available with either a 62 kWh or 82 kWh lithium-ion battery pack mounted below the passenger compartment. Consequently, EPA-estimated ranges are 206 miles for the 62 kWh models and up to 291 miles for the 82 kWh versions (rear-wheel drive). At the same time, all models can charge at public DC fast chargers at rates up to 140 kW (62 kWh) or 175 kW (82 kWh), thereby enabling a 10-80% charge in about 30 minutes. Likewise, Level 2 home charging replenishes the battery in around 6-8 hours depending on battery size.
Performance and Driving
Rear- and all-wheel drive configurations are offered. First of all, the base 62 kWh motor produces 201 hp, while the new performance drive unit in 82 kWh models makes an impressive 282 hp (rear drive) or 335 hp (AWD). Thanks to the battery’s low mounting position, the ID.4 delivers agile, well-planted handling along with electric vehicle quickness. Likewise, a range of selectable drive modes allow drivers to customize steering, throttle response, and regenerative braking preferences.
Advanced Tech and Safety
The ID.4 showcases Volkswagen’s latest tech and driver assistance innovations. For example, the Discover Pro infotainment system features cloud-based navigation, wireless smartphone integration, and voice controls. Additionally, standard IQ.DRIVE combines adaptive cruise, lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and other radar/camera-based systems to enable hands-on semi-automated driving capability. Finally, advanced LED lighting and a full suite of airbags and safety tech are also included.
Pricing
With a starting MSRP of $39,735 for the base 62 kWh model, the 2024 ID.4 lineup is extremely affordable versus competition. However, the 82 kWh Pro trims start at $44,875, with the top AWD Pro S Plus carrying a $49,995 MSRP before options. Importantly, all MY24 ID.4 models qualify for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit, thereby making them very competitively priced against conventional compact SUVs.
Rear-Wheel Drive
Standard | Pro | S | Pro S | |
Price | $39,735 | $47,875 | $44,855 | $49,995 |
Range | 206 miles | 291 miles | 206 miles | 291 miles |
Power | 201 hp | 282 hp | 201 hp | 282 hp |
0-60 mph | 7.3 sec. | 5.9 sec. | 7.4 sec. | 6.1 sec. |
DC charging 10–80% | 29 min | 28 min | 29 min | 28 min. |
All-Wheel Drive
AWD Pro | AWD Pro S | |
Price | $48,755 | $53,875 |
Range | 263 miles | 263 miles |
Power | 335 hp | 335 hp |
0-60 mph | 4.9 sec. | 5.0 sec. |
DC charging 10–80% | 28 min | 28 min |
Notable Standard and Optional Features
The Volkswagen ID.4 comes impressively well-equipped from the factory but also provides a range of optional upgrades to enhance its comfort, technology, and capability.
Standard Features Include:
- Heated front seats
- Wireless smartphone integration
- LED lighting
- IQ.DRIVE driver assistance suite
- 10-color adjustable ambient lighting
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Advanced keyless access with proximity unlocking
- Park Assist with memory parking function
Optional Equipment Includes:
- Massaging front seats
- Panoramic fixed glass roof
- Remote power rear liftgate
- Leatherette or premium upholstery options
- Heated steering wheel
- 30-color ambient lighting system
- Premium audio system upgrade
- Ventilated front seats
- Three-zone climate control
- 360-degree camera system
Overall, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 delivers a compelling combination of electric driving range, interior space and amenities, advanced tech features, and driver assistance capabilities – all at an affordable price point, especially considering the available $7,500 federal tax credit. While more mainstream than some EVs, it represents a very well-equipped and versatile choice for electric vehicle buyers.