10 Things We Like About the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4
The highly anticipated 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, which will spearhead the German automaker’s next-generation EVs in North America, finally made its official debut this past week.
How anticipated exactly? Consider this: Volkswagen’s U.S. website crashed less than 24 hours after reservations began. We expect Canadians to show just as much interest when the vehicle arrives here early next summer, even though pricing has yet to be disclosed.
Here are 10 things we like about the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4—and you probably will, too.
1. Designed for the Future
While the e-Golf was just a copy of the outgoing Golf, the new ID.4 boasts a unique, attractive and forward-thinking design. Future ID. models from Volkswagen, including the ID.3that’s already on sale in Europe and still being considered for Canada, will follow in the same direction.
2. Athletic Stance
If you think there are too many SUVs on the market and complain that they’re not as fun to drive as a car, you could be in for a surprise. Thanks to the MEB electric platform with the large battery mounted under the floor, the Volkswagen ID.4 has a low centre of gravity and short overhangs at both ends that create an athletic stance and promise stable, dynamic handling. In fact, the company says this crossover has “the soul of a Golf GTI.”
3. Light is the New Chrome
Gone are the traditional chrome accents. Instead, the Volkswagen ID.4 shines with LED lights, particularly the strip that connects the headlights and wraps around them. Even the door handles eschew chrome in favour of LED illumination.
4. Not Too Fancy
Unlike the Cadillac LYRIQ with its gigantic 33-inch curved display, the Volkswagen ID.4 boasts a fairly restrained and clean cockpit in typical German fashion. A fully digital instrument panel combines with a large 10-inch (optional 12-inch) centre display that’s slightly angled toward the driver.
5. Nice Feeling of Space
The minimalist layout in the Volkswagen ID.4 results in extra cabin space, particularly between the front seats and where legroom is concerned. Once again, credit goes to the MEB platform. To make the interior feel even more spacious, a large panoramic sunroof is available.
6. ID. Light Feature
At the bottom of the windshield, an LED strip supports drivers during navigation. For instance, it can signal appropriate lane changes, assist with GPS directions or prompt drivers to brake in the event of any dangers. There’s a chance this feature turns out to be a distraction, but we think it’s cool nonetheless.
7. Pedals for the Digital Age
Speaking of cool, all Volkswagen EVs will feature aluminum-trimmed pedals with the Play and Pause icons. After all, we’re living in the digital age and people look for entertainment in any shape or form.
8. Two Levels of Performance
In Canada, the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 will be available in RWD and AWD variants, each one boasting an 82-kWh battery. The former generates 201 horsepower and sprints from 0-100 km/h in just under eight seconds, while the latter puts out 302 horsepower and reaches triple-digit speeds in under six seconds.
By the way, the exact range has yet to be announced, but expect over 400 kilometres, Volkswagen Canada says.
9. Cold Canadian Weather is no Problem
The Canadian-spec Volkswagen ID.4 will come standard with a heat pump that improves thermal management of the battery and thus preserves range, even in cold temperatures. A heated steering wheel, heated windshield and heated front seats will also be found on every ID.4.
10. Free Charging for Two Years
As is the case with the Audi e-tron, Volkswagen ID.4 customers will get “at least” two years of complimentary charging at Electrify Canada stations. Incidentally, 38 minutes will suffice to bring the battery from 5-80 percent using DC fast charging (up to 125 kW).