New 62 kWh battery offers a lower-priced ID.4 entry option at $37,495 MSRP
New standard technology includes Park Assist Plus with Memory Parking and 12-inch infotainment display
Upgraded design with all new colors and trim, comfort features, and new alloy wheels on all trims
Now assembled in Chattanooga, Tenn., the result of a further $800 million investment in the U.S. market
High-tech features include IQ.DRIVE® advanced driver assistance technology and a smart infotainment system, using voice and touch
Volkswagen’s first all-electric SUV is more accessible, more advanced, and more comfortable for 2023. Built on Volkswagen’s MEB electric vehicle architecture, the ID.4 marries the strengths of a purpose-built EV with performance, packaging and value — features that have marked the brand for decades.
New for 2023
For 2023, Volkswagen is localizing the assembly of the ID.4 all-electric compact SUV, with the models being assembled in the company’s state-of-the-art plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the result of a further $800 million investment in the North American region. Later in 2022, a new version with a 62 kWh battery will be introduced, lowering the price of entry to the ID.4 model line.
The ID.4 offer structure is simple, with three trims — Standard/Pro, S, and S Plus — and the option of 62 kWh and 82 kWh batteries and rear-wheel- or all-wheel-drive.
The entry ID.4, now called the ID.4 Standard, is equipped with a new 62 kWh battery, allowing for a lower price of entry and an EPA-estimated range of 209 miles. The ID.4 Pro continues with an 82 kWh battery that allows for an EPA-estimated range of 275 miles. A single permanent magnet synchronous motor powers the rear wheels and provides 201 horsepower. ID.4 AWD Pro models add an asynchronous motor to the front axle, resulting in a bump to 295 horsepower, and have an EPA-estimated range of 255 miles. The well-equipped ID.4 Standard starts at $37,495 MSRP.
Every ID.4 sees subtle but purposeful styling upgrades for the 2023 model year. On the outside, gloss black highlights adorn the front bumpers; three new wheel designs are available, with S models now receiving 20-inch rims; and S models receive an illuminated rear VW emblem to round out the previously equipped exterior premium lighting package that includes premium LED headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, an illuminated lightline and front VW emblem. Eight available paint colors are steered by trim and offer owners a variety of ways to demonstrate their personal style.
Inside, the ID.4 now boasts a standard 12-inch infotainment display. Moreover, every trim looks more luxurious for 2023. On Standard models, the dash receives stitching in addition to new mélange fabric and leatherette seat side bolsters, replacing the basic cloth upholstery of the previous model. This trim is available with two new interior colors — Stone or Nutmeg. Stone vehicles are paired with black and gray accents, while Nutmeg vehicles bring in attractive brown hues.
On all S models, two new curated leatherette interiors bring an upscale ambience, and the choice between Galaxy or Cosmic finishes. Galaxy vehicles are finished with black leatherette seat inserts paired with Platinum gray bolsters, door inserts, and dash, with a black steering wheel and displays. Vehicles with the Cosmic interior are equipped with gray leatherette seat inserts matched with blue bolsters, door inserts, and dash with a white steering wheel and displays. The door panels receive enhanced stitching to complete the refined look and there’s a revised center console that better serves the needs of American consumers. Heated outer rear seats are now available on the top S Plus trim.
The ID.4 continues to offer a complete suite of state-of-the-art driver assistance technology, further bolstered for 2023. Included are Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking (Front Assist) with pedestrian and (new for 2023) cyclist detection, Active Blind Spot Monitor (Side Assist), front and rear Park Distance Control, and High Beam Control (Light Assist). Furthermore, the advanced IQ.DRIVE® driver assistance suite is standard on every ID.4 model, featuring Travel Assist 2.0 with adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping System (Lane Assist), Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Emergency Assist 3.0. New for 2023, ID.4 adds Park Assist Plus with Memory Parking and assisted lane changing functionality as an enhancement of Travel Assist.
Powertrain
With the MEB architecture, Volkswagen is returning to its roots — the primary electric motor is located at the rear, like the original Beetle. The motor is positioned above the rear axle, just in front of the centerline of the wheels, and transfers its torque to a single-speed gearbox. It is ideally placed for agile handling and traction, and nearly silent. In fact, it’s so quiet that a synthetic sound is generated up to speeds of about 20 mph to aid pedestrian and cyclist awareness. The AC permanent-magnet synchronous motor puts out 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque that is available instantly.
One of the main strengths of the permanent magnet synchronous motor is its efficiency — well above 90 percent in almost all driving situations. During the manufacturing process, Volkswagen uses a complex piece of technology known as a hairpin winding: the stator’s coils are made from square copper wires, which after bending, are visually similar to hairpins. This hairpin winding technique enables the wires to be packed more tightly. As result, there is more copper in the stator — power and torque are increased, while cooling is more efficient.
The electric drive unit only weighs about 200 pounds, including the motor, gearbox and power and control electronics for the electric drive, and fits into a duffle bag. The electric drivetrain and other essential components of the ID.4 are produced by the Volkswagen Group Components sites in Kassel and Salzgitter, Germany, while the battery pack is assembled in Chattanooga using cells sourced from SK Innovation in Commerce, Georgia.
The ID.4 AWD Pro adds an asynchronous electric motor on the front axle. The system has a maximum output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. With its instantly available torque, the ID.4 AWD Pro can reach 60 mph from a standstill in less than 6.0 seconds. Unlike a traditional all-wheel-drive system, there are no mechanical links between the axles. Each motor connects to the wheels through a differential and a single-speed gearbox.
The variable all-wheel-drive system offers several benefits over traditional mechanical setups. The rear motor handles standard driving situations, leaving the front motor to engage only as needed, such as when the ID.4 senses wheelspin at any corner. The motors can react faster than any combustion engine — within a few hundredths of a second — so that the driver never notices the changes.
The EPA-estimated range on a full charge is 209 miles for the ID.4 Standard and the ID.4 S, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 115 MPGe in city driving; 99 MPGe on the highway; and 107 MPGe in combined city/highway driving. The EPA-estimated range for the the ID.4 Pro and Pro S is 275 miles, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 115 MPGe in city driving; 98MPGe in highway driving, and 107 MPGe in combined city/highway driving.
The ID.4 AWD Pro and AWD Pro S have an EPA-estimated range of 255 miles, and an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 104 MPGe in city driving; 93 MPGe in highway driving, and 99 MPGe in combined city/highway driving.
New for the 2023 model year, the ID.4 Standard and ID.4 S offer a 62kWh (gross) battery pack that lowers the price of entry as well as the curb weight of the ID.4 by 240 pounds (ID.4 Standard vs. ID.4 Pro). The ID.4 Pro is equipped with an 82kWh (gross) battery pack. Either battery is positioned in the underbody to create a low center of gravity for optimal driving dynamics as well as extremely well-balanced weight distribution.
The 82 kWh battery weighs 1,047 pounds; around a fifth of the larger battery’s weight is accounted for by the housing. This is a scalable aluminum construction whose interior framework is made from extruded and pressure-cast profiles. The housing is bolted to the frame, helping to improve bodyshell rigidity. A strong all-round frame made of extruded aluminum sections protects the battery system against damage in the event of an accident, and the battery is also disabled if the vehicle is involved in a serious accident. A replaceable aluminum underbody panel protects the battery against damage from the road.
The temperature of the battery modules is controlled using a floor plate with built-in water channels. The thermal management system keeps the battery in the ideal temperature range of around 77 degrees Fahrenheit at all times, benefiting power output, fast DC charging, and the battery service life. The High-Voltage System Limited Warranty provides that the battery will still have at least 70 percent of its original capacity after eight years of operation or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
The ID.4 can be charged with both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) fast-charging. All ID.4 models are equipped with a CCS (Combined Charging System) socket, which allows for both home and public charging. At a home or public Level 2 charger, the 11 kW onboard charger allows the ID.4 to charge to full in approximately six hours and fifteen minutes for the ID.4s equipped with the 62 kWh battery and seven and a half hours for ID.4s equipped with the 82 kWh battery.
The ID.4 Standard and S offer a 140-kW DC fast-charging rate, while Pro models equipped with the larger 82 kWh battery offer a 170-kW DC fast-charging speed, up from 2022. This allows all ID.4 Pro trims to DC fast charge from 10–80% SOC in around 30 minutes. The 2023 ID.4 comes with three years of unlimited 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America DC fast chargers at no additional cost, helping to inspire range confidence.
Volkswagen customers will be able to manage their charging plan through the Electrify America app. In model year 2023, the ID.4 offers a Plug and Charge feature to help simplify the charging experience at Electrify America. To meet current and future demand, Electrify America continues to expand rapidly, with plans to have more than 1,800 charging stations with 10,000 ultra-fast chargers installed or under development in the United States and Canada by 2026.
Chassis
The ID.4 is designed to be fun to drive: with the large high-voltage battery located between the axles, lowering the center of gravity, the weight distribution is very close to 50:50. In the body, sophisticated solutions help to reduce the weight. The side sills, for example, are made from aluminum and ultra-high-strength steel, which is also good for crash performance.
With 3.5 turns lock-to-lock and a stellar curb-to-curb turning radius of 31.5 feet for the ID.4 Standard, S, Pro, and Pro S models, the ID.4 feels nimble, especially compared with other compact SUVs. Even the all-wheel-drive models have a tight turning radius of just 36.4 feet.
The ID.4 has a strut-type front suspension, with lower control arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers and an anti-roll bar. For the first time at Volkswagen, the steering rack is located in front of the centerline of the wheels, to maximize stability during cornering. At the rear, the car has a compact multi-link suspension that features coil springs, telescopic dampers and an anti-roll bar. The ID.4 AWD models have a ride height that is raised by 0.8 inches compared with the rear-drive models and have firmer springs and dampers and thicker anti-roll bars. While the chassis and body are made from steel, parts of the suspension are made of aluminum to reduce weight.
Drivers can decide for themselves how comfortable or sporty they want the ID.4 to be with the Driving Mode Selection. This influences the steering weight, throttle response, and electric drive motors. Four modes are standard: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Custom. Eco mode is designed for more efficient driving and tempers throttle response. Comfort mode ensures high driving comfort. Sport mode adds more responsive steering and throttle response; on all-wheel-drive models, it leaves the front motor engaged for maximum power. Custom allows a driver to blend between Comfort and Sport. All-wheel-drive models also offer Traction mode, which is intended specifically for driving on loose or slippery surfaces and features permanent all-wheel drive up to speeds of around 12 mph.
The new vehicle dynamics control system, which debuted on the Mk 8 Golf GTI, is standard on ID.4 models and balances performance and battery efficiency. This system, which works closely with the ESC stability control system, controls the wheel-selective brake interventions of the XDS® electronic transverse differential lock. It uses a digital target model to achieve optimum driving and steering behavior.
The ESC in turn cooperates closely with the control units for the electric motor and the power electronics. In rear-wheel-drive models, this networking is designed to ensure that the rear wheels of the ID.4 find grip in different situations — during acceleration, when cornering, and when the brake regeneration takes place. This type of traction control is speed based and is another innovation from Volkswagen. It takes place automatically every millisecond, and is so fast and non-intrusive that the driver hardly feels any intervention.
In all-wheel-drive models, the vehicle dynamics system controls when the front-axle motor should engage. It also handles the XDS+ brake-based differential to optimize handling when cornering at speed: it gently brakes the wheels on the inside of the bend, thus turning the car slightly into the radius as required.
The ID.4 Standard, Pro, and AWD Pro feature 19-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels with all-season tires. The S, Pro and AWD Pro S models have larger 20-inch five-spoke two-tone alloy wheels, while the S Plus trims receive unique 20-inch dynamic two-tone machined alloys. The wheels are aerodynamically optimized by their flat design, and the tires are chosen for low rolling resistance.
A combination of brake types is used on ID.4. It features disc brakes on the front wheels and drums at the rear — the difference being specific to electric vehicle needs. As EVs rely on regenerative braking, the rear brakes get comparatively little use compared to a conventional ICE vehicle, plus there are friction advantages in using drums. The discs on the front of all ID.4 models are 14.1 inches in diameter. ID.4 also features Auto Hold, which keeps the vehicle at a standstill without requiring a foot on the brake.
The regenerative braking system in the ID.4 is designed for efficiency and offers the driver two modes. The D (Drive) position is the default mode, automatically activated upon start-up. In this position, the car can coast whenever the driver’s foot is off the accelerator or brake pedal. As soon as the driver applies the brakes, energy recuperation is activated, and the electric drive motor feeds power back into the battery.
The B (Brake) position enables the driver to select a heavier amount of regeneration. Drivers can use the gear selector rocker switch to change from the D position to B at any time. In this mode, the ID.4’s drive almost always recovers energy during lifting off, but not all the way to a standstill. The limit has been set at 0.13 g — enough for clearly noticeable deceleration that won’t confuse drivers of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles: intuitive operation is one of the vehicles’ greatest strengths.
During the majority of everyday braking maneuvers — up to around 0.25 g of deceleration — the electric drive motor performs the braking alone, while the electric brake servo only activates the friction brakes in situations that demand more stopping power. The transition from generator-based to hydraulic braking goes almost unnoticed, thanks to highly accurate and swift brake and drive system control. These systems also make sure that the rear wheels, where brake energy recuperation takes place, always have a sufficient amount of grip.
Each ID.4 features predictive Eco Assistance as standard. It analyzes data from the navigation system and vehicle sensors to provide drivers with effective support in driving efficiently and in a relaxed way. Once the ID.4 approaches a low-speed area, such as towns and cities, junctions and bends, Eco Assistance notifies drivers to take their foot off the accelerator pedal. From this moment on, the system manages optimum coasting and energy recovery without drivers having to intervene. The car responds similarly when it approaches a vehicle ahead that is traveling at a lower speed.
Exterior
Like the architecture underneath, the exterior design of ID.4 represents a move towards the future, with a nod to the past. As on the Beetle, the Volkswagen logo is positioned centrally at the front because there is no radiator grille. The front end communicates strength with a sculpted front bumper that has large gloss black intake-like scoops and diamond accents to give the car a powerful presence. Although these elements might seem decorative, these black plastic parts are functional for funneling air around the car, and the diamond shape is a common motif that is found in many areas of the ID.4.
Large LED headlights give the electric SUV a friendly but focused expression. A LED strip at the top of the headlight functions as the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). S, Pro S and AWD Pro S models add premium LED projector headlights with Volkswagen’s Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) and an illuminated light line stretching toward the center of the vehicle, creating a striking light signature, as well as illuminated Volkswagen logo for a visually striking exterior front lighting upgrade. The headlights feature a diamond-pattern design on the housing, and are framed by illuminated rings that are flattened at the bottom.
From the front to the back, clean, flowing lines alternate with crisp edges for a refined yet futuristic look. The A-pillar starts a long way forward, while a strong, wave-like shoulder line brings momentum into the vehicle body. Illuminated door handles lay flush and feature an electric release. The matte black cladding on the front end continues over the wheelarches and rocker panels, connecting to the rear bumper. The low greenhouse runs out into a strong C-pillar — a classic Volkswagen design feature — and into a long spoiler. At the rear, C-shaped LED taillight clusters are connected via a red light strip surrounding the Volkswagen logo, mirroring the front-end design. On the S trims, the rear logo is now lit dramatically in red, creating a unique rear light signature. Diamond-pattern detailing runs through the clusters and across the back of the vehicle.
The ID.4 will be available in eight exterior colors — Pure White, Silver Mist Metallic, Pure Grey, Deep Black Pearl, Tourmaline Blue Metallic, Opal White Pearl, Aurora Red Metallic, and Arctic Blue Metallic. All models come with a body-color roof and black roof rails as standard. AWD Pro models add a tow hitch with towing capacity of 2,700 lb with a braked trailer, and a heated windshield, while S, Pro S and AWD Pro S models add a panoramic fixed-glass roof.
Pro S Plus and AWD Pro S Plus models upgrade to a black roof and rear spoiler, while the C-pillars, roof line, roof rails, and bumper accents shine in bright silver. These models also receive power folding door mirrors with a diamond-pattern lamp signature.
Aerodynamics and Packaging
The ID.4 is aerodynamically refined on the exterior to help it achieve an excellent drag coefficient of 0.27 for ID.4 Standard and S and 0.28 for Pro, and Pro S models. The decisive factor is the flowing shape of the body with a greenhouse that is pulled sharply to the back. Multiple elements come into play to separate the flow at the rear: the large roof spoiler, the three-dimensional shape of the taillight clusters, and the diffuser that finishes the almost flat underbody at the rear. The flush door handles are also designed to optimize air flow for minimum drag losses, as are the wheels. The electrically-powered radiator blind in the front only opens when the power units need cooling air.
The architecture of Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) divides the space for people and technology in a unique way. Outside, the short overhangs and long wheelbase give it a dynamic presence, but they also help maximize space inside. The rear axle location for the power and control electronics for the electric drivetrain frees up space inside the car. The under-hood area accommodates the radiator, 12-volt battery, wiper fluid and large components of the air conditioning system on rear-wheel-drive models, and houses the second motor on all-wheel-drive models. Packaging the high-voltage battery as a flat block underneath the passenger compartment gives the car near-perfect weight distribution, and also means a flat floor for rear-seat passengers.
The ID.4 sits squarely in the middle of the compact SUV segment, size-wise. It is 5.6 inches shorter than the Volkswagen Tiguan, at 180.5 inches, with a 1.0-inch shorter wheelbase at 108.9 inches. It is 0.9 inches lower than Tiguan at 64.5 inches high, and 0.5 inches wider, at 72.9 inches for ID.4 rear-wheel-drive models.
Passenger volume is similar to the two-row Tiguan despite the overall smaller footprint, with 99.9 cubic feet total. Legroom is a comfortable 41.1 inches for front passengers and 37.6 inches in the rear seat. Cargo volume is 30.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 64.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.
Interior
Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV features a modern, airy interior design with meticulous attention to detail. This begins right in front of the driver, with an innovative digital display replacing the traditional instrument cluster. The 5.3-inch ID.Cockpit is attached to the steering column, so that it’s always positioned ideally in the line of sight, and the traditional gearshift is replaced by a large rocker switch on the right. The dash panel appears to float, as it is not connected to the center console. Its front section drops down towards the interior in steps, while decorative trim separates the top and bottom halves. The ID. Cockpit now features state of charge, as well as range, navigation information when the native navigation and Apple Maps are used, and driving data.
Running between the front seats is an improved and spacious center console specifically designed for the NAR market. The front portion houses two large cupholders, and the rear compartment is an illuminated wireless charging pad for compatible mobile phones and two USB-C ports. On the backside are two more USB-C charging ports for rear-seat passengers. The armrests are now integrated into the console and beneath is a large storage area.
The optional panoramic fixed-glass roof stretches across almost the entire surface of the roof, letting light in and reinforcing the feeling of spaciousness. An electric sunshade helps prevent the interior from heating up on sunny days, and can be controlled via a touch slider above the driver or through the infotainment screen.
Beyond its layout, the interior quality impresses, with a soft foam skin about a quarter of an inch thick covering the top section of the dash panel and door inserts. On ID.4 Standard, Pro, and AWD Pro, new “Nutmeg” and “Stone” interior treatments boost the standard interior with door inserts covered in a new mélange fabric made from 20 percent recycled fibers that also adorns the seating surfaces; the bolsters are now finished in either brown or black leatherette, upgrading the entry trim significantly for 2023.
On ID.4 S, Pro S, and AWD Pro S vehicles new interior “Cosmic” and “Galaxy” interior treatments introduce new color palettes for a premium interior experience. Galaxy comes with black HMI (steering wheel, steering column, and the housings for the display and control panels in the doors), while Black leatherette seat inserts are paired with Platinum Grey bolsters, dashboard and door inserts; the Cosmic finish offers a white HMI paired with gray leatherette seat inserts and Blue leatherette bolsters, dashboard and door inserts. These trims also receive enhanced stitching on the door panels. Leatherette seating surfaces are perforated for added comfort and feature a hexagonal pattern.
In 2023, the ID.4 receives a multifunction steering wheel with hands-on detection that is heated on the S trims. On all models, the climate control vents on the driver and front passenger sides have understated chrome and glossy black trim.
The upscale interior is further highlighted by ambient lighting. ID.4 Standard, Pro, and AWD Pro models include ten-color ambient lighting; Pro S and AWD Pro S models feature a stunning 30-color ambient lighting system with pre-set “moods”, as well as a slider bar in the infotainment system to customize.
Adding to the relaxed vibe of the interior, the ID.4 is unusually quiet. One reason for this is the sophisticated aero-acoustics, which come into play in details such as the shape of the exterior mirror housings and the acoustic windshield. The second factor is advanced insulation for the body that significantly reduces air and body intrusion produced by the drivetrain, running gear and tires.
Tech and Infotainment
The interior of ID.4 mirrors the futuristic look of the exterior, with functionality almost completely controlled by touch or voice control — there are very few actual buttons. The ID.Cockpit display in front of the driver is operated with touch-sensitive controls on the multifunction steering wheel which provide haptic feedback. Up to three tiles show the most important information, with the display for battery status and range underneath. A control panel to the left of the steering wheel integrates the lighting functions, including the automatic headlights and defrosters.
A 12-inch Discover Pro Max touch infotainment display, now standard on all ID.4 trims, is located in the middle of the dash panel, angled slightly towards the driver. This screen can be configured to driver preference, and manages the standard navigation system, all telematics, entertainment, driver-assistance systems and vehicle settings. Menus can be moved using gesture control, simply swiping one’s hand in front of the screen. For MY23, the sub-menus have been re-arranged to make operating the system more intuitive. Sliders for volume and temperature adjustment are located on the inclined surface below the display.
“Hello ID.” natural voice control is standard in the ID.4. The car follows the instructions spoken by the driver and passengers and is capable of understanding many commands from everyday language, such as “Hello ID., I’m cold” to turn up the heat.
The ID.4 also comes with the ID. Light system — a light strip that runs below the windshield and provides the driver with intuitive support. It uses various light pulses to signal status such as readiness to drive, turn instructions from the navigation system, brake prompts from driver-assistance systems, and incoming phone calls. When using voice commands, it signals that it is listening, similar to voice-activation on mobile phones or virtual assistants. When the ID.4 is plugged in to charge, the ID. Light indicates the current level of charge.
To complete the high-tech package, ID.4 offers standard wireless mobile charging for compatible devices, wireless App-Connect, SiriusXM, and Volkswagen Car-Net® with in-car Wi-Fi capability when you subscribe to a data plan. App-Connect smartphone integration for compatible devices offers users the ability to run select smartphone apps directly on the vehicle’s display through Apple CarPlay®, Android AutoTM and MirrorLink®.
The ID.4’s electronic intelligence is based on a network architecture that Volkswagen designed for the MEB. In terms of hardware, two central high-performance computers known as ICAS (In-Car Application Servers) are the main components. They are responsible for a number of tasks that are usually performed by separate control units in conventional models.
The software architecture in the ID.4 follows the principle of local servers: designed to be a broad service platform, it significantly simplifies the exchange of data and functions between the systems involved. This flexibility makes it easy to integrate new data packages, though these are subjected to strictly-protected authentication. Basic driving functions such as drive and brake control remain in their separate control units. One of the major strengths of the new network architecture is the ability to update the system at a future date, which ensures the ongoing enhancement of many functions.
For model year 2023, Car-Net services will be offered in three areas: Remote Access EV, Safe & Secure EV, and Hotspot. Car-Net Remote Access EV allows owners the ability to interact with their vehicle from miles away via the myVW mobile app. It is offered at no additional charge for five years from the date of vehicle purchase. Features include remote battery stop/start charging, remote climate controls, search for charging stations, and find off-street parking availability. For 2023 ID.4 models, more features are added such as remote vehicle status, vehicle health reports and roadside call assist, as well as allowing owners to search points of interest or destinations in the app and send them directly to the vehicle.
Additionally, the 2023 ID.4 offers two packages to enhance the navigation and infotainment experience at no additional charge for three years from the date of vehicle purchase. The Plus Nav package allows drivers to access online map updates, traffic reports, fuel prices, and parking information. The Plus Speech package offers advance voice controls using natural language to enhance map destination entry for addresses and points of interest, media on demand and online radio.
VW Car-Net EV skills for Amazon AlexaTM are also available. To set up, owners who have an active Amazon account should open the skills page associated with their car model in their Alexa app and link the skill to their VW Car-Net account. This will allow them to use their voice on an Alexa-enabled device to ask Alexa to send remote commands to their vehicle from the comfort of their own home — for instance: “Alexa, ask Car-Net to start charging my ID.4.”
Car-Net Safe & Secure EV is a paid subscription service that includes Emergency Assistance, Automatic Crash Notification, and Information Assistance. The subscription is currently $159 per year before taxes and fees, and automatically renews annually at the end of the subscription term, unless cancelled.
Emergency Assistance can be accessed through the SOS button in the vehicle, and, if a cellular connection can be established, puts the driver in contact with the Car-Net service center, who can direct emergency responders to the vehicle’s location and notify the user’s Emergency Contact. Provided a cellular connection can be established, Automatic Crash Notification can help automatically notify an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of a collision. For model year 2023, ID.4 adds Information Assistance — accessed through the i-call button within the vehicle — which allows the driver to speak to a Car-Net agent for support needs, such as finding directions to be sent to the in-vehicle navigation and account services.
A Car-Net Hotspot data plan subscription allows passengers to access the internet with up to four compatible connected devices simultaneously, including tablets, smartphones, laptops, gaming devices, and more — all at 4G LTE-enabled speed. With just a few clicks in the myVW mobile app or at vw.com/carnet, VerizonTM customers with an existing mobile data plan can simply add their Volkswagen vehicle as a new $20 line item to their existing monthly bill; non-Verizon customers can set up an unlimited plan for $20/month, taxes and fees may apply. With an active data plan, the Plus Online Radio Package ($29/year) offers online internet radio with 30,000+ radio stations and podcasts.
SiriusXM with 360L. ID.4 models offer the most advanced audio entertainment platform — SiriusXM with 360L. SiriusXM’s next-generation platform combines satellite and streaming content delivery into a single, cohesive in-vehicle entertainment experience and provides more options than before, including access to more than 10,000 hours of SiriusXM’s On Demand content, and more live entertainment, available by subscription (three-month Platinum Plan trial subscription included). SiriusXM with 360L’s personalized “For You” recommendations help listeners to discover more of what they love. The enhanced sports play-by-play offering makes it easier to find the listener’s favorite team when it is game time, and individual listener profiles allow multiple drivers and passengers to customize their own favorite channels. You can see the all the features and benefits of SiriusXM with 360L in action in this video.
Comfort and Convenience Features
The ID.4 offers a range of comfort and convenience features found throughout the rest of the brand’s lineup. Standard features include advanced KESSY® keyless access with proximity unlocking, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and dual-zone Climatronic® Touch climate control.
ID.4 Standard, Pro, and AWD Pro models feature six-way manually adjustable seats, while S, Pro S and AWD Pro S models add 12-way power seats, with massaging lumbar and memory. All ID.4 models have standard LATCH anchors on the rear outboard seats and tethers for child seats on rear seating positions.
To manage cold temperatures, the ID.4 features standard heated front seats, heated side mirrors and washer nozzles, and, on all-wheel-drive models, a heated windshield. ID.4 S, Pro S, and AWD Pro S models add a heated steering wheel. New for 2023, ID.4 Pro S Plus and AWD Pro S Plus further benefit from heated outboard rear seats and three-zone Climatronic with controls for the rear-seat passengers.
Additionally, owners can use the Volkswagen myVW app to start heating or cooling the ID.4. When plugged in to a charger, this uses energy from the grid rather than from the vehicle battery, helping to preserve range. Beyond those features, the ID.4 also has an electric resistance heater as part of the Climatronic system, which is designed to get to temperature faster than the traditional heaters from gas-powered vehicles, which can sometimes blow cold air until the engine warms up.
ID.4 features plenty of storage options and ways to make using them easy. In addition to the center console, all models feature spacious stowage areas in the doors, and each door has a bottle holder. S, Pro S and AWD Pro S feature cell phone pockets in the backs of the front seats for rear seat passengers as well as a rear center armrest with two more cupholders, for a total of eight pre-configured beverage holders. All ID.4 models feature a below-floor storage compartment in the cargo hold, where owners can store the household charging cord and other small items.
All trims but ID.4 Standard receive a unique adjustable trunk floor that allows for a flat load floor with rear-seats down, but which can be repositioned a few inches down to allow for larger items. S, Pro S and AWD Pro S models add a ski pass-through, and a power tailgate with Easy Open & Close, which opens and closes the tailgate with a simple foot movement when the key is on the operator, to allow easy access when hands are full. A switch in the cockpit allows the driver to open and close the tailgate from inside the vehicle.
Safety and Driver Assistance
To help protect occupants, the ID.4 provides a combination of both passive and active safety systems. It features six airbags as standard (front and side airbags for front passengers and side curtain airbags for outboard seating positions), along with a number of electronic safety systems, such as an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC). All ID.4 models feature a standard rearview camera.
A standard feature on the ID.4 is Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. This builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact — the most significant of which can cause additional collisions. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System helps address this, in certain crash scenarios, by applying the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus potentially reducing residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.
The ID.4 also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.
Volkswagen’s IQ.DRIVE® advanced driver assistance technology features hands-on semi-automated capability. In addition, on the highway, IQ.DRIVE features lane centering and a capacitive steering wheel to make driving easier. Around town, IQ.DRIVE alerts drivers to surprise obstacles in front of them, and keeps an eye around the car to help make driving safer.
The IQ.DRIVE system is standard on ID.4. The system utilizes front and rear radar, a front camera and several ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area, enabling Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance) now with assisted lane changing; Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring and (new) cyclist detection); Active Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor); Rear Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Go; Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System); and Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).
Travel Assist, standard on ID.4, enables semi-automated hands-on driving capability from 0 to 95 mph. Travel Assist can be activated by a button on the steering wheel, and uses the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Assist (Lane Keeping Assist) features to help to steer as well as accelerate and brake the vehicle in response to traffic and center the vehicle within lane markings. This allows the driver to observe driving tasks while using minimal force on the wheel. It is the driver’s responsibility to continuously monitor the system, remain alert, and maintain control of the vehicle at all times. To ensure this, Travel Assist monitors the capacitive steering wheel to make sure the driver has their hands on it. When Travel Assist is active, the cockpit display can show the lane markings (solid or dotted) and adjacent vehicles (car, motorcycle or box truck). New for 2023 is an assisted lane change function where the vehicle can complete a lane change maneuver with Travel Assist activated. Once the driver switches on the turn signal in the desired direction, the ID.4 will complete the maneuver when it is safe to do so.
Front Assist, standard on ID.4, is intended to warn drivers of potential frontal collisions (Forward Collision Warning) with vehicles and pedestrians, and in some cases provide automatic braking assistance (Autonomous Emergency Braking). For 2023 models, the system can detect cyclists or pedestrians traveling parallel to the vehicle and alert the driver if they turn into the vehicle’s path.
Within physical system limits, Forward Collision Warning warns the driver of potential imminent front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster if the car is traveling above 18 mph. Furthermore, an automatic jolt of the brakes can warn the driver of the danger. If the driver fails to brake, Autonomous Emergency Braking is activated to help slow the vehicle. If the car is traveling below 18 mph and the system detects a potential front-end collision, Autonomous Emergency Braking activates without a prior acoustic and visual warning. If the brake pedal is applied but the driver brakes too lightly, the brake pressure is increased by the system (Braking Support).
Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitor) is standard on ID.4. Blind Spot Monitor uses two radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to scan the approaching traffic and is intended to warn drivers of the presence of other vehicles in adjacent lanes. If the driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane change while a vehicle is detected in a blind spot, the system utilizes a flashing LED in the mirror housing. Even if the driver does not use a turn signal, the LED in the mirror housing will illuminate if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. The system is designed to help alert drivers in specific situations; stationary objects or oncoming vehicles do not trigger warnings, nor do vehicles more than one lane across away from the vehicle.
If Lane Assist is active, the system not only warns the driver with the flashing LED symbol if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, but within system limits, it can also countersteer to help keep the car in its lane even if the turn signal is on. If the driver still tries to steer out of the lane, the system will warn with an additional vibration of the steering wheel.
The Rear Traffic Alert system, standard on ID.4, is intended to detect vehicles approaching from the side that may be difficult for the driver to see while reversing. The system offers a 180-degree view of the back of the car with a range of 65 feet, and will present a visual and an acoustic warning, if a potential collision with a crossing vehicle is detected. If the driver does not react, the system can apply the brakes to help mitigate and, in the best case, can prevent a collision. The system is activated by putting the car in reverse.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), standard on ID.4, uses a forward facing radar to maintain a set speed while helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can further use those buttons to adjust and cancel the ACC function while the accelerator can be used to override the ACC function. Pressing the brakes always cancels the ACC function. All ACC-related system messages appear in the central multifunction display.
When the roadway ahead of the vehicle is clear, the system maintains the set speed. Models fitted with ACC can match speeds with a vehicle in front and come to a stop if the vehicle in front stops. If the car in front moves within three seconds, ACC will resume automatically to the set speed. If the car stands longer than three seconds, the driver can resume ACC control by pressing the accelerator pedal or the “resume” button on the steering wheel.
Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System) is standard on ID.4. When driving above 40 mph, if the system’s camera recognizes visible lane markings and, using a special algorithm, calculates that the vehicle is unintentionally straying from its lane without using a turn signal, Lane Assist actively countersteers to help keep the vehicle in its lane. If the driver takes his or her hands off the wheel for a defined period of time, the system provides an audible warning and a visual signal in the instrument cluster, asking the driver to take over.
The system will not intervene if it cannot properly detect lane markings. If the turn signal has been set before crossing a lane marking, the Lane Assist system will not intervene or give a warning. The driver can override the system at any time by applying minimal force to the steering wheel.
Emergency Assist, standard on ID.4, can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver is incapacitated. Emergency Assist constantly monitors the driver’s attentiveness by checking the input of their hands on the steering wheel. If the system does not detect driver input, a series of warnings (visual, audible, and brake jolts) will occur. If still no input is detected, Emergency Assist will slow the vehicle to a gradual stop in its own lane and activate hazard lights. Emergency Assist requires Lane Assist to be active for the system to intervene.
In addition to IQ.DRIVE, the ID.4 has standard Park Distance Control, Park Assist (Parking Steering Assistant), Park Assist Plus with Memory Parking, Dynamic Road Sign Display, Light Assist (High Beam Control for headlights) and on ID.4 Pro S Plus models, Area View (Overhead View Camera).
Park Distance Control, standard on ID.4, uses ultrasonic sensors located in the front and rear bumpers to monitor a range of up to approximately five feet in front or behind the vehicle. The system may activate below 9 mph and helps provide guidance when parking or in tight spaces. The system has audible and visual warnings when the car starts to approach parked cars or static objects of sufficient size from the rear.
Maneuver Braking, a part of the Park Distance Control system, is intended to mitigate or help prevent collisions with detected static obstacles to the front and rear while the vehicle is maneuvered. The system is active between 1–6 mph. If the system detects a stationary object, it can apply the brakes automatically to help prevent or mitigate a collision. The system can be deactivated at any time using the touch display or permanently in the setup menu.
Park Assist Plus is standard on ID.4. This system can automatically steer the car into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces (the latter both forward and in reverse). While driving below 25 mph, pressing the Park Assist button in the center console will activate the system to scan the left and right sides of the vehicle for parking spots. By using the turn signal indicator, the driver can indicate which side of the road they would like to park. When the system detects a space, “Parking Space Found” will appear in the multifunction display. The driver only needs to select a gear and activate the accelerator pedal and brake, as Park Assist can automatically help steer the vehicle into the parking space. The driver can override or deactivate the steering assistance at any time by turning the steering wheel, or pressing the button.
Memory Parking takes semi-automated convenience to the next level in the 2023 ID.4. Using this innovative driver assistance system, the vehicle can be taught up to five different parking maneuvers. The memory function remembers parking maneuvers at speeds below 25 mph with a travel distance of up to 164 feet; for example, for parking in a carport or garage. The driver just has to park once and save the parking maneuver. The vehicle can then repeat the learned parking maneuver autonomously while the driver monitors the process.
Dynamic Road Sign Display, standard on ID.4, uses a forward-facing camera to detect and read road signs. After verifying the information with signage data stored in the onboard navigation, the system alerts the driver on the Discover Media screen in the center console, and on the ID.Cockpit instrument display.
Two final driver assistance features help provide drivers with better visibility. Light Assist, standard on ID.4, automatically switches on the headlamp high beams above 37 mph on dark or poorly lit roads, if there is no oncoming traffic detected. Below 18 mph, the high beams automatically switch off. On ID.4 Pro S Plus models, Area View uses the car’s four cameras to supplement the driver’s view of what is around the vehicle.
Warranty, Maintenance & Roadside Assistance
Every 2023 ID.4 comes with a bumper-to-bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty, a limited warranty covering the high-voltage battery, and Carefree Maintenance Program. The New Vehicle Limited Warranty provides coverage for four years or 50,000-miles (whichever occurs first), and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration. The high-voltage battery has a limited warranty for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first, for defects in material and workmanship and for net capacity loss below 70%, and can also be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration.
The Carefree Maintenance Program provides scheduled maintenance services for two years or 20,000 miles (whichever occurs first) at no additional charge, and can be transferred to a subsequent owner throughout the remainder of its duration.
ID.4 models receive complimentary coverage in the Volkswagen 24-Hour Roadside Assistance Program for three years or 36,000 miles (whichever occurs first). The Roadside Assistance program offers out-of-charge service, which provides roadside charging or towing for an out-of-charge battery, depending on distance to nearest charging station (towing up to 100 miles). Also included are the following services for disablements due to mechanical breakdown or collision: flatbed towing to the nearest VW e-mobility dealership in cases of mechanical breakdown, collision towing, flat tire service, lock-out service, and trip interruption benefits.
Competitive Set
Honda CR-V, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4