Volkswagen’s ID.4 entered the electric SUV market with considerable anticipation, aiming to bring German engineering to the burgeoning EV segment. While recent updates have addressed some initial criticisms, a thorough review reveals that the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, particularly the Pro S RWD model, still falls short of becoming a top recommendation in the competitive electric vehicle landscape. Despite VW’s efforts to refine this all-electric offering, it unfortunately retains a sense of being an unfinished product, leaving potential buyers wanting more.
One area where the ID.4 somewhat delivers is in its range. Equipped with an 82 kWh battery pack, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version promises a practical driving range of around 250 miles in real-world conditions. While this figure is less than the advertised 291 miles on the window sticker, it marginally surpasses the range observed in similarly equipped Hyundai Ioniq 5 models. For daily commuting and routine errands, the ID.4’s range proves adequate. However, a significant drawback lies in its charging capabilities. Unlike many modern EVs, the ID.4 cannot utilize the fastest 350 kW DC fast chargers, resulting in potentially longer charging times, especially when compared to vehicles that support these higher charging rates. While charging times might be comparable on slower chargers or at home, the inability to leverage ultra-fast charging infrastructure is a notable disadvantage.
The issues with the ID.4 extend beyond charging and into the realm of user experience and build quality. A key update focused on improving the central display’s user interface, which has indeed become more user-friendly and responsive in many aspects. Initially, navigating the menus feels smoother and quicker. However, this improvement is marred by persistent software glitches. During testing, the infotainment system exhibited significant malfunctions, with both the radio and navigation pages becoming completely unresponsive. Clicking their icons resulted in blank screens that refused to load, a concerning software instability for a vehicle from a major manufacturer like Volkswagen in 2024. While the rotary gear selector now operates more smoothly, the frustrating touch-sensitive controls for volume and temperature, though now illuminated for nighttime visibility, remain poorly designed and difficult to use. The same criticism applies to the steering wheel buttons, which are not only complicated to operate but also finished in a glossy black plastic that readily attracts fingerprints and smudges. Despite some attempted improvements, these crucial controls are simply not refined enough for a modern vehicle.
The tactile experience of the ID.4 further diminishes with its subpar build quality, particularly noticeable in the door mechanisms. Both interior and exterior door latches feel flimsy and toy-like. The exterior grab handles exhibit unsettling flexing and creaking noises during use, suggesting a lack of robustness and raising concerns about their long-term durability. While designed with rubber squeeze pads for entry, the handle itself still feels like it might break with repeated use. Similarly, the interior door release handles lack tactile feedback, contributing to a cheap feel. Adding to the ergonomic frustrations, the door control panel features a single toggle button to switch between controlling the front and rear windows, a bewilderingly inconvenient design choice. The small, flimsy knob for adjusting the side mirrors also feels fragile and prone to breakage. The rear-view camera, touted as a feature in a technologically advanced electric car, is surprisingly disappointing, offering low resolution and distorted image corners.
Opening the hood reveals another area where the ID.4 disappoints: the absence of a front trunk, or “frunk.” Instead of offering valuable extra storage space, the area under the hood is occupied by exposed, poorly concealed cross braces and mechanical components. This lack of front storage is a missed opportunity in an electric vehicle, where maximizing space utilization is typically a key design consideration. While the rear cargo area is reasonably spacious, the absence of a frunk is a significant drawback. The interior space management also raises questions. The center console is excessively large and bulky, making the front cabin feel more cramped than necessary. Despite its size, the center console offers surprisingly limited and poorly designed storage. Furthermore, the ID.4 lacks a glovebox in front of the passenger seat, another unusual and impractical design choice. Compounding the issue, the high hood line obstructs forward visibility, with the hood sitting higher than the dashboard, creating a less-than-ideal driving perspective. While the materials used in the interior are of acceptable quality, the poorly executed controls and questionable design choices detract significantly from the overall cabin experience.
In terms of driving dynamics, the VW ID.4 Pro S offers a merely adequate and uninspiring performance. While power has been increased for the model year, bringing the 0-60 mph acceleration time down to a claimed six seconds for the RWD version, the vehicle does not feel particularly quick or engaging on the road. Handling is similarly unremarkable. The steering is vague and lifeless, a common characteristic in this vehicle segment, offering minimal feedback to the driver. On winding roads, the ID.4 lacks the composure and responsiveness found in other electric SUVs, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, feeling less planted and agile. Simply put, the ID.4’s driving experience is bland and falls short compared to more dynamically engaging EVs. While a regenerative braking mode is present, it is not strong enough to enable true one-pedal driving, a feature many EV drivers appreciate.
It’s important to emphasize that this review is not driven by animosity towards Volkswagen. However, it’s a critical assessment of a vehicle that fails to meet expectations, especially considering VW’s position as a global automotive leader. After the Dieselgate scandal, one would hope for a more compelling and polished entry into the EV market. When compared to its rivals, the ID.4 struggles to justify its place. Alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 offer superior design, technology, and overall driving experience. Unless significant manufacturer incentives or dealer discounts make the ID.4 considerably more affordable, prospective EV buyers are strongly advised to explore other options. The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4, even with updates, remains a difficult recommendation in a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive EV market.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD
As-tested price: $51,815
Pros: Hmmm
Cons: Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 exist.
VW ID.4 Rear Seating: The rear seats of the Volkswagen ID.4, showcasing passenger space and comfort features in the EV SUV.
VW ID.4 Exterior Side Profile: Side view of the Volkswagen ID.4, demonstrating its silhouette, wheel design, and overall proportions as an electric SUV.
VW ID.4 Interior Overview: A comprehensive look at the Volkswagen ID.4's interior, capturing the dashboard, seats, and overall cabin layout from a wider perspective.
