Volkswagen ID.4 Review 2022 | Drive, Specs & Pricing - Carwow

As a medium-sized electric SUV, the ID4 has the tricky job of representing Volkswagen amongst a sea of capable alternatives. It’s very spacious and sleek-looking inside, but the interior feels cheap, it’s frumpy on the outside and other SUVs offer better range.

It’s a bit like one of those big Ikea bags. Sure it’s practical and you can put a lot of stuff in it, but there are more stylish, sturdier alternatives out there - which you’d rather be seen with, too.

While the ID4 was novel when it was launched, cars such as the stylish Nissan Ariya, posh Audi Q4 e-tron and the simply superb Skoda Elroq have come along to steal its thunder. Spend a bit more and you can get behind the wheel of the excellent BMW iX3 or Tesla Model Y, too.

The ID4’s exterior design leaves a lot to be desired. The front light bar, contrasting roof pillars and intricate taillight patterns are all talking points, but otherwise the ID4 is awkwardly proportioned and a bit bloated in its styling.

Volkswagen ID4: Electric range, battery and charging data

Range: 222-351 milesEfficiency: 3.9-4.1 miles per kWhBattery size: 52kWh, 77kWhMax charge speed: 135kW / 175kWCharge time AC: 12hrs 40mins, 0-100% at 7kWCharge time DC: 28 mins, 10-80% at 135kW / 28 mins, 0-80% at 175kWCharge port location: Right rearPower outputs: 170hp, 204hp, 282hp, 335hp

Step inside and things improve, because while plain, the ID4’s interior is far more convincing. The low-set dashboard, wraparound door cards and floating central touchscreen are all easy on the eye and make the cabin feel even more spacious than it already is. The climate controls are irritating to use, however, and the small driver’s display now looks dated compared to alternatives.

Have a feel around the surfaces, however, and the material quality spoils things. There are far too many hard, nasty plastics in easy to reach places. It’s a massive shame given Volkswagen’s reputation for high-quality cars.

At least the seats are comfortable and highly adjustable, while there’s a lot of front storage space in the doors and centre console. Back seat passengers won't want for space, and that rear bench is supportive on long drives, while the 543-litre boot is bigger than in the BMW iX3 and Audi Q4.