The Volkswagen Id.4 has received updates aimed at improving its appeal, but as an expert in auto repair and content creation for cardiagnosticnearme.com, I must say these changes don’t fully address the vehicle’s core issues. While Volkswagen deserves credit for listening to consumer feedback and attempting to refine the ID.4, the 2024 model still presents itself as a work in progress, rather than a finished product ready to compete in the burgeoning EV market. Our review focuses on the mid-range RWD Pro S trim, which carries an MSRP of $51,815. While competitively priced, the ID.4 struggles to justify its cost when compared to more polished and user-friendly electric vehicles available today.
Acceptable Range, Lagging Charging Capabilities
One undeniable strength of the ID.4 lies in its driving range. The 82 kWh battery pack in the Pro S model offers a real-world range of approximately 250 miles. While this figure is less than the advertised 291 miles, it’s still a respectable number for daily driving and slightly surpasses the range offered by comparable Hyundai Ioniq 5 models. Opting for the all-wheel-drive configuration will slightly reduce this range. However, a significant drawback emerges when considering charging speed. Unlike many competitors in the EV segment, the Volkswagen ID.4 cannot utilize the fastest 350kW DC fast chargers. This limitation means that recharging times on public fast-charging networks can be noticeably longer, negating some of the convenience typically associated with electric vehicle ownership, although home and slower public charging times remain unaffected.
Software and Interior Controls Remain Frustrating
Moving beyond range, the experience with the ID.4 begins to decline, particularly in terms of software and interior controls. Volkswagen has updated the central display’s user interface, and there is a marginal improvement in responsiveness and ease of navigation. Initially, menu selections appear quicker, but this enhanced performance is inconsistent. During testing, the infotainment system exhibited significant glitches, with both the radio and navigation functions becoming completely unresponsive, displaying blank screens when selected. Such software instability in a modern vehicle from a major manufacturer is simply unacceptable and reflects poorly on the overall user experience of the ID.4.
Further compounding the usability issues are the interior controls. While the rotary gear selector is now improved, the touch-sensitive sliders for volume and temperature, even with added illumination for nighttime visibility, remain frustratingly imprecise and distracting to use while driving. Similarly, the steering wheel buttons, finished in gloss black, are prone to smudging and can be confusing to operate. These controls, though slightly refined, still fall short of the intuitive and user-friendly interfaces found in competing EVs.
Questionable Build Quality and Space Utilization
The perceived quality of the ID.4 takes another hit when examining the build and material choices. The door latches, both interior and exterior, feel flimsy and toy-like. The exterior door handles exhibit noticeable flexing and creaking during normal use, raising concerns about their long-term durability. Interior door release handles lack tactile feedback, contributing to a cheapened sensation. The window controls are also poorly designed, with a single set of buttons requiring toggling between front and rear windows, and the mirror adjustment knob feels fragile. The low-resolution and distorted rear-view camera further detracts from the vehicle’s supposed technological sophistication.
Practicality, a key consideration for SUVs, is also compromised in the ID.4. Opening the hood reveals the absence of a front trunk (“frunk”), a missed opportunity for additional storage space in an EV. The under-hood area presents a disorganized view of cross braces and components that lack any attempt at concealment or aesthetic refinement. While the rear cargo area is reasonably spacious, the absence of front storage is a significant drawback. Inside, the cabin design features an excessively large center console that paradoxically reduces the sense of spaciousness in the front seats. The storage capacity of this bulky console is surprisingly limited, and the lack of a glovebox further diminishes practical storage options. Compounding the interior space issues is a high hood line, which impairs forward visibility, creating a less confident driving experience. While material quality is acceptable in general and seats are comfortable, these poorly executed control elements and space inefficiencies detract significantly from the overall ownership experience of the ID.4.
Mediocre Driving Dynamics
In terms of driving dynamics, the ID.4 Pro S is merely adequate. While power output has been increased for this model year, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of approximately six seconds for the RWD version, the vehicle doesn’t feel particularly quick or engaging to drive. Handling is described as “meh,” with steering that is vague and lifeless, a common characteristic in this vehicle category. When driven on winding roads, the ID.4 lacks the composure and responsiveness found in more dynamically competent EVs, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The regenerative braking system, while present, is not strong enough to enable true one-pedal driving, a feature preferred by many EV drivers. Overall, the ID.4’s driving experience lags behind that of other EVs in its class, particularly in handling and driver engagement.
Final Verdict: Look Elsewhere
It’s difficult to recommend the Volkswagen ID.4 when considering the broader EV landscape. Volkswagen, a global automotive giant, seemingly falls short of expectations with this EV offering. Following the Dieselgate scandal, the ID.4 appears to be a rushed and underdeveloped attempt at redemption in the electric vehicle market. Comparing the ID.4 to alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 reveals a significant gap in overall quality, user experience, and driving enjoyment. Unless substantial manufacturer rebates or dealer discounts make the ID.4 significantly more affordable, prospective EV buyers are strongly advised to explore competing models that offer a more refined and complete electric vehicle package. The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, even with updates, remains an unfinished product that struggles to justify its position in the competitive EV market.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD
As-tested price: $51,815
Pros: Limited redeeming qualities.
Cons: Competitors like Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 offer superior alternatives.
Volkswagen ID.4 interior dashboard and infotainment screen
Volkswagen ID.4 rear passenger seats
Volkswagen ID.4 exterior front quarter view
Volkswagen ID.4 interior dashboard design review
Volkswagen ID.4 steering wheel controls close up
