The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 has carved a unique niche in the burgeoning electric SUV market. Currently, a significant draw for the ID.4, particularly the Pro S AWD model we tested, is its eligibility for a substantial $7,500 federal tax credit in the US. This advantage sets it apart from some key competitors. But beyond the appealing price point after incentives, does the 2023 ID.4 offer enough to truly excite in a rapidly evolving EV landscape? Let’s delve into a detailed review of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD to see if it’s more than just a tax break on wheels.
Image: Front three quarter view of a silver 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S parked on a paved road, showcasing its overall design.
The Upsides of the 2023 ID.4 Pro S AWD
While the base 2023 ID.4 might feel underpowered, the Pro S AWD variant significantly elevates the performance. Boasting 295 horsepower thanks to its dual-motor setup, this model delivers a noticeable surge in acceleration compared to the standard 201 horsepower version. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction, offering drivers more confidence in varied weather conditions and improved grip for quicker launches. A 0-60 mph sprint in 5.5 seconds is respectable for its class, although the acceleration does taper off at higher speeds, a common trait among many EVs in this segment. Still, the ID.4 Pro S offers a more engaging driving experience than some of its less powerful rivals.
Image: Side profile of a blue 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, highlighting its ground clearance and wheel design.
Beyond performance, the 2023 ID.4 Pro S AWD excels in practicality. The interior is generously sized, comfortably accommodating passengers and families. The ride quality is geared towards comfort, making it a pleasant cruiser for highway journeys, and the cabin remains relatively quiet at speed. Volkswagen has equipped the ID.4 with sought-after technology features, and in this latest iteration, improvements have been made to the infotainment system’s stability, addressing previous concerns about glitches and lockups. A notable feature is the driver-selectable regenerative braking, offering a spectrum from minimal regeneration to near one-pedal driving, catering to different driving preferences.
The crucial $7,500 federal tax credit significantly sweetens the deal. Being assembled in the United States, the 2023 ID.4 remains eligible for the full credit, unlike some imported EV competitors. This incentive can make the ID.4 a financially compelling option in the EV market.
The 82 kWh battery pack is competitive within the segment. During testing in mixed driving conditions, an average efficiency of 3 miles per kWh was observed. This translates to a theoretical range of around 246 miles. While this figure might suffice for daily commutes, it’s important to consider real-world factors. The test was conducted in relatively cold Northern California weather, with limited use of climate control to maximize efficiency. Typical driving habits, especially with climate control usage, could likely result in a more realistic range of 190 to 210 miles, particularly in colder climates. While achieving 3 miles/kWh in winter conditions is commendable, it positions the ID.4 as merely average in terms of efficiency compared to its rivals.
Drawbacks and Disappointments of the 2023 ID.4
Despite its merits, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD is not without its shortcomings. Several design and functionality choices detract from the overall experience.
Image: Interior view of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, focusing on the dashboard, steering wheel, and infotainment screen.
The door handles are a prime example of form over function. Their electronic operation lacks tactile feedback and feels flimsy. The absence of a physical connection and the toy-like feel of the interior lever are perplexing. The decision to use electronic handles instead of simple buttons, which arguably offer a more futuristic and reliable approach, is questionable. Furthermore, the door mechanism can be problematic on inclines, occasionally getting stuck in a half-closed position.
Ergonomics suffer from several questionable design choices within the cabin. The omission of a traditional volume knob, replaced by a touch-sensitive slider, is a significant usability downgrade. Adjusting volume with the slider proves cumbersome and distracting while driving. Climate controls are primarily embedded within the infotainment screen, adding layers to simple adjustments. While some physical defrost controls remain, their placement to the left of the steering wheel, alongside headlight controls, is unconventional and less intuitive than a central dashboard location.
Image: Rear view of a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, emphasizing the taillights and rear design.
Visibility is compromised by a high dashboard and hood line, obstructing the forward view. Thick A-pillars further impede peripheral vision, creating blind spots. Despite the absence of a front engine, the 2023 ID.4 lacks a front trunk (“frunk”), missing out on valuable storage space. The center console design is another area of concern. Its bulbous and overly large structure appears aesthetically driven but sacrifices practicality. The “artistic” shape offers no additional lower storage and occupies significant cabin space that could be better utilized.
The infotainment system, while improved in responsiveness compared to earlier ID.4 models, still presents usability issues. Certain vehicle settings, such as disabling the auto-hold feature, are buried deep within menus, requiring multiple steps to access. The absence of a dedicated physical button for auto-hold, a common feature in many vehicles, and its illogical placement within the ‘brakes’ submenu, rather than the ‘assist’ menu with other safety systems, highlights a lack of user-friendly design.
Image: Close up of the center console area of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, showcasing the gear selector and touch controls.
The PRND rocker switch gear selector, seemingly inspired by BMW’s i3, is another questionable design choice. Driving dynamics are uninspiring; the 2023 ID.4 Pro S, while not slow, rarely feels quick and lacks the engaging driving experience offered by competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD. The ride quality can be choppy and unsettled on imperfect road surfaces, and the steering exhibits nervousness at higher speeds, with darting behavior and a lack of linear response. While the AWD system provides adequate grip, the overall driving experience is described as wooden and devoid of excitement.
Charging speed is another area where the 2023 ID.4 Pro S falls behind. Its peak DC fast charging speed is limited to 150 kW. While this allows for reasonably fast charging, several rivals now offer 350 kW charging capability, significantly reducing charging times at compatible fast-charging stations. In a market where charging infrastructure and speed are critical factors, the ID.4’s slower charging rate is a competitive disadvantage.
Pricing, Tax Credits, and Market Context
The primary advantage of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 range remains the $7,500 US federal tax credit. This incentive effectively lowers the net price to around $45,000 for the Pro S AWD model, undercutting rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. For budget-conscious EV buyers, this price point is undeniably attractive. However, it raises the question: should a tax credit be the sole deciding factor when choosing a vehicle?
Image: Interior of a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, showcasing the spacious rear seating area.
Alternatives like the Toyota RAV4 or Venza hybrids, priced around $40,000, offer excellent fuel economy (35 MPG), all-wheel drive, and eliminate range anxiety, presenting a compelling case against solely focusing on the tax credit. Furthermore, the Tesla Model Y, despite polarizing aesthetics, delivers a well-rounded EV package with strong performance and also qualifies for the tax credit. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is another stylish and tax-credit-eligible competitor to consider.
Conclusion: A Passable EV, But Lacking Inspiration
The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD is a decent electric SUV, particularly when factoring in the significant tax credit. However, it struggles to stand out in a rapidly evolving EV market. While it offers adequate performance, a comfortable interior, and improved technology, it is marred by ergonomic shortcomings, uninspired driving dynamics, and slower charging speeds compared to newer rivals. In a market brimming with exciting and innovative EVs, the 2023 ID.4 feels somewhat dated and underwhelming. It surpasses the Toyota bZ4X in terms of overall appeal, but against more compelling options like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Tesla Model Y, and Ford Mach-E, the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to truly excite in the electric vehicle revolution. The tax credit provides a strong incentive, but beyond that, the 2023 ID.4 struggles to deliver a truly compelling EV experience.
2023 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S
As-tested price: $52,985
Pros: Federal Tax Credit Eligibility
Cons: Average performance, uninspiring driving experience, ergonomic issues, slower charging compared to rivals.
Image: Vertical shot of the front of a 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, highlighting the VW logo and front light bar.
Image: Angled front view of a silver 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, showcasing its front design and headlights.
Image: Dashboard and infotainment screen of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, emphasizing the digital instrument cluster and clean design.
Image: Close up of the steering wheel and driver’s side controls in the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S.
Image: Front seats and center console area of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, highlighting the minimalist design.
Image: Detailed shot of the center console in the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, emphasizing its unusual and bulky design.
Image: Interior door handle of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, focusing on the electronic lever and its unconventional design.
