2021 Volkswagen ID 4 Electric

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 is available in two trim levels: the Pro and the Pro S. The so-called pro trim, which is the entry-level model, starts from $39,335 while the Pros S variant pushes the base pricing to about $44,495. The standard model of both the trims would come with the single-motor RWD configuration from the factory. Upgrading to the dual-motor AWD version will set you back an additional $3,680 over the base price of each trim. As tested, the base model has an abundance of features that you would expect from a car from 2021. 

A 10-inch infotainment system, heated power recline fronts, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a plethora of advanced driver assistance systems come in as standard. If you are willing to shell out more for the pro S trim, you will be greeted by additional features including a 12.0-inch touchscreen, 30-color customizable ambient lighting, leatherette heating surfaces, heated side mirrors, illuminated door handles, glass panoramic sunroof, and that’s just to name a few. Also, the Pro S trim gets a $1000 gradient package that boosts the exterior appearance with upsized 20” wheels, black painted roof, and silver roof rails with accents. 

Which Trim should you buy?

There are currently only two trims available for reservations: the Pro and Pro S. However, based on their price and features, we recommend the Pro S trim. For just under $4,000 extra, you are looking at a significant bump in the features list and also the premium quotient over the base Pro trim. Also, if range and usability are one of your primary priorities, we suggest that you go for the RWD variant rather than waiting for the AWD trim. 

Since both use the same 77 KWh battery, the dual-motor AWD trim will see a noticeable drop in range as the more powerful motors need more juice to run. In addition, all ID.4 models are eligible for a federal tax credit. After you have completed the financing, you can apply for that tax rebate within 10 days and receive $7500 as a reward for helping the environment.

With a full charge, the ID.4 has quite an impressive range. The 77 kWh battery pack does perform rather well despite the fact that there is a lot more weight to carry around. While driving in mixed conditions, it covers almost 250 miles. Volkswagen also claims ID.4 will save $4000 in estimated fuel costs over a five-year period. Furthermore, the official data regarding the exact range provided by ID.4 in both cities and highways are not yet confirmed. However, its overall range suggests that it may be a little better than its competitors here. 

Having the biggest has really helped the ID.4 step ahead in the game, albeit when it comes to the base trims of each of these cars. Surprisingly, despite the noticeable disadvantage in weight, this crossover gets the highest rated range which seems 27 miles more than the Mustang Mach E 2021 range. That said, we are sure that these official figures are the ones taken in the best possible scenarios and when bringing in physical factors, the chances are that the playing field would level out.

It is indeed a pleasure to be in the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4's cabin. VW has made a lot of efforts to make the interior of the vehicle unique and comfortable, and the design looks very futuristic today at the least. There aren't a lot of buttons on the dash to carry out the functions. Instead, a single gloss black finished panel houses touch-sensitive controls for the HVAC system and basic media controls. The metal trim running across the center of the dash does bring in a premium feel.

The 5” driver’s display feels a bit too small but it is very crisp and shows information clearly. Same is the case with the 12” touchscreen, very smooth and easy to use. Both screens are set perfectly and do not affect forward visibility. We are not a big fan of the touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. They seem to get triggered quite often when using the wheel. Also, the drive selector is mounted in a weird position but feels very tactile to use. Since the dashboard line is flat and low, the forward visibility is excellent as well.

The spacing within both rows is excellent, indeed the best in its segment. There are also a number of storage bins available for your items. You can also get ambient lighting inside the car on top-end variants. When all seats are upright, the cargo space measures 30.3 cubic feet. Ultimately, the ID.4 comes out on top in this section when it comes to comfort.

Five people can fit inside each of the EVs in this comparison. Even so, ID.4 offers the most space in both rows in terms of headroom and legroom, which will enhance the overall comfort. The ID.4's cargo space measures 30.3 cubic feet, which is also among the best in its segment and its peak cargo capacity outclasses Mustang Mach E cargo space by 4.5 cu-ft. The Ford Mustang Mach-E also does well in terms of overall space and cabin comfort, but it feels slightly behind the ID.4. Some key interior features are:

• Heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel with touch controls
• V-Tex leatherette seats with heating function
• 8-way power-adjustable seats with 4-way power lumbar, 
• (memory and massage functions only available is Pros S trim)
• Automatic Climate Control
• 60-40 Folding Rear Bench Seats
• 30-Color Ambient lighting.
• Panoramic glass sunroof

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The ID.4 has a 12.0-inch horizontal touch screen mounted in the front. The gauge cluster is embedded in a screen that is mounted directly in front of the steering wheel. The interface of the screen is very intuitive and straightforward. The massive screen responds quickly.

The complex touch screen integrated controls do feel a bit unnecessary and physical buttons are something we appreciate any day. Besides that, there are a ton of features available right from the base model itself. Additional features include Apple Carplay and Android Auto, USB ports mounted on both rows, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a 7-speaker premium audio system, and much more. Some key infotainment features are:

• 12” Touch Screen Display
• Apple Carplay & Android Auto
• Wi-Fi Hotspot
• Navigation
• Voice command features
• &-Speaker premium Audio system

Volkswagen has decided to go with a complete crossover styling for the ID.4. VW's ID.4 lineup has a unique design compared to the rest of its lineup. Its front fascia is relatively large and its exterior does have many curves compared to its siblings. In addition, the body and rooftop both come in two different color tones, which also look good. We like the fact that it’s not trying too hard to depict itself as Polar bear friendly. 

The roof rails also add a bit of flair and give it more of a rugged feel. According to Volkswagen, they haven't equipped their EVs with sloping roofs to maximize cargo room. In terms of styling, it is a fairly attractive vehicle and is sure to grab some eyes while looking quite different and unique. We have to give it to Volkswagen for this cool design after we have seen what Ford did with the Mach-E.

Being the heaviest does not translate to being the biggest in size when talking about the ID.4. The wheelbase of the Mach-E is the longest measuring 117 inches whereas the ID.4 stands at 108.9 inches. But on comparing side by side, the ID.4 does feel properly sizable. The Kona electric and the Niro Electric do feel small in comparison both visibly and when in actual use. Proper packaging and utilization of space have helped the ID.4 stand out with its practicality despite not being the biggest one when it comes to exterior dimensions. Some of the key exterior features are:

• 19.0-inch all-season wheels
• Premium LD projector headlamps with signature running lights
• Cornering Lights
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps w/Delay-Off
• Power Panoramic Sunroof
• Heated and power side door mirrors
• LED Tail Lights
• Power Liftgate Rear Cargo Access

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 is a new platform. This is the reason why it hasn’t been tested by NHTSA or IIHS yet for its crashworthiness. The ID.4 is underpinned by the VW’s proven MEB platform which boasts the use of a mixture of high-strength materials in its construction. This vehicle has also been equipped with various autonomous driver assistance features. All these features work together to enhance the overall safety. Some of the standout safety features are:

• Lane Keeping Assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Low Tire Pressure Warning
• Rear Traffic Alert
• Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Forward Collision Warning
• Park Distance Control Front And Rear Parking Sensors
• Active Side Assist Blind Spot

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E

The performance and range of the Mach-E are far superior to that of ID.4. The base price of the Ford Mach-E is also a little expensive but it is justified with its performance and specs.

However, the cabin space and comfort levels of the ID.4, on the other hand, are arguably better, hence, making the ID.4 more of a hassle-free daily driver while the Mustang Mach-E inclined more towards the enthusiasts.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

The Hyundai Kona is slightly affordable than the VW ID.4 and it's also quicker with better on-road performance as compared to the .ID.4. On the other hand, the cargo space, availability of features, and cabin room are better on the ID.4.

Moreover, the ID.4 also offers more range. Since both cater to audiences who want more practicality, the ID.4 makes more sense.

2021 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2021 Kia Niro EV

The Kia Niro offers quicker acceleration and feels more nimble to drive. Although the ID.4 is by far the best in this segment when it comes to innovation, it still feels lacking when it comes to finesse.

Considering the aforementioned traits, we would recommend the Niro, for now.

With the all-new 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, the brand has introduced new technologies as well as a unique design that stands out. Additionally, there is enough space inside the cabin for 5 people to sit comfortably and enjoy the ride with plenty of cargo space. However, the only caveats are its performance, especially with the single motor variant. Nevertheless, we expect that these issues will be addressed with the release of its AWD dual-motor variant later this year. By doing so, the ID.4 would likely become the most favourable in its segment.