After three years and 50,000 miles driving the Volkswagen ID.4, it’s time for a comprehensive owner review. As an EV crossover, the VW ID.4 has garnered both praise and criticism. Having lived with this electric vehicle daily, I can offer an in-depth perspective on its strengths and weaknesses. Is the VW ID.4 still a recommended electric SUV in today’s rapidly evolving EV market? And after three years, am I still happy with my purchase? Let’s delve into the details of this long-term VW ID.4 ownership experience to help you decide if it’s the right EV for you.
Interior Quality, Cabin Space, and Comfort of the VW ID.4
One of my initial concerns when purchasing the VW ID.4 was the longevity of the interior, particularly the light-colored “First Edition Space Gray” trim. This interior features off-white accents on components like the seats, steering wheel, and door handles. After three years of use, I’ve been impressed by the durability and build quality of the VW ID.4 interior.
Despite its light color scheme and daily use, the VW ID.4 interior has held up remarkably well. Even without professional detailing, the cabin maintains a fresh appearance. The seats show minimal signs of wear, appearing almost new.
The light gray vinyl driver’s seat of the VW ID.4 shows minimal wear after three years of daily use, indicating good durability.
The door panels and other interior surfaces are also in excellent condition. This is noteworthy considering the vehicle’s regular exposure to potentially damaging substances like sunscreen, hairspray, and insect repellent, all known to degrade vinyl interiors. Furthermore, the VW ID.4 has remained free of rattles or unwanted noises, a testament to its solid build quality.
Maintaining the VW ID.4 interior is straightforward. For the infotainment screen and glossy surfaces, I recommend an LCD cleaner and microfiber cloths to eliminate fingerprints and dust. Unscented baby wipes are ideal for cleaning the vinyl seats and dashboard without causing damage.
Related Reading: Vw Id4: 30+ FAQs Answered by an Owner
VW ID.4 Cabin Space and Passenger Comfort
While the VW ID.4 is slightly shorter than many of its electric crossover competitors at 180 inches in length (vehicles like the Tesla Model Y are longer), it offers generous cabin space. The VW ID.4 prioritizes passenger room, providing ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear occupants.
The flat floorboard design of the VW ID.4’s second row maximizes legroom and comfort for rear passengers.
This spaciousness is achieved by relocating many electronic components to the front trunk area. While this eliminates the possibility of a front trunk, it significantly increases front passenger legroom. Like many electric vehicles, the VW ID.4 features a flat floor in the second row due to the absence of a traditional transmission tunnel, further enhancing rear passenger comfort. Additionally, the roofline of the VW ID.4 is less sloped than some EVs, contributing to excellent headroom in both rows.
VW ID.4 Seating Comfort and Features
The vinyl seats in the Volkswagen ID.4 provide a good balance of cushioning and support. They are comfortable enough for long drives, preventing back fatigue even on extended journeys.
The comfortable and supportive vinyl front seats of the VW ID.4 are equipped with heating, power adjustability, and lumbar support.
Both front seats are heated, offer 12-way power adjustability, and include adjustable lumbar support. The VW ID.4 also features seat position memory profiles and an easy-entry function. A massage feature is included, although I personally don’t use it frequently. While ventilated seats were not available on the First Edition, they are now offered on the 2024 VW ID.4 models. I recommend considering the vinyl seating option, as it is more breathable and easier to clean than other materials.
VW ID.4 HVAC System and Sunshade
The VW ID.4 First Edition comes with a dual-zone automatic climate control system, allowing independent temperature settings for the driver and front passenger. Physical air vents, which can be fully closed, are a welcome feature for those who prefer to control airflow directly. Rear passengers also have access to manually adjustable vents.
The electronically controlled sunshade in the VW ID.4’s panoramic roof is a highly appreciated feature for managing cabin temperature and sunlight.
It is important to note that US-spec VW ID.4 models do not include a heat pump, which can impact heating efficiency in cold weather. However, the air conditioning system is highly effective, providing cold air rapidly even in hot conditions. A standout feature is the electronic sunshade for the panoramic roof. This sunshade effectively reduces heat buildup when parked in direct sunlight and lessens the workload on the AC system. The sunshade can be partially opened or closed, offering flexible sunlight control.
Steering Wheel Wear and Controls
The steering wheel of my VW ID.4 is the only interior component showing noticeable wear. The white vinyl has some discoloration and minor degradation. However, considering the usage, the wear is still within acceptable limits, and I’ve seen vinyl steering wheels deteriorate much faster in other vehicles.
The VW ID.4’s driver display provides essential driving information clearly and concisely.
The steering wheel design is conventional, with attractive stitching and a heated function. It includes haptic-touch controls for driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and the infotainment system. While these controls offer a modern look, their sensitivity can be a drawback, leading to unintentional activations.
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VW ID.4 Driver Display and Infotainment System
The VW ID.4 features a five-inch driver display mounted on the steering column. This screen, while basic, provides essential information, including speed and importantly, the battery charge level and estimated driving range. The range estimation has proven to be accurate in my experience, assuming consistent driving patterns.
The infotainment system in the First Edition VW ID.4 is centered around a 12-inch horizontal touchscreen. The screen is large and bright, making app navigation and control easy. However, the software performance of the infotainment system is a known area for improvement.
Interior Annoyances
Some minor interior elements are less desirable. The gloss black surfaces, found on the infotainment screen base and center console, are prone to scratches and difficult to keep clean. They can also create glare in direct sunlight.
The gloss black trim on the VW ID.4’s center console attracts dust and fingerprints and can reflect sunlight uncomfortably.
My biggest interior complaint concerns the touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel and driver’s window controls. The steering wheel buttons are easily activated unintentionally when adjusting hand position. The driver’s window controls are particularly unusual, using two physical switches and a touch-sensitive “rear” button to toggle between front and rear window control. This design is unintuitive and often leads to accidentally activating the rear window controls.
The unconventional driver’s window controls in the VW ID.4 are touch-sensitive and can be confusing to operate.
Interior Summary
Overall, the VW ID.4 interior offers a clean and modern aesthetic. While it utilizes a mix of hard and soft-touch plastics and is not the most luxurious in its class, it is spacious, comfortable, and avoids feeling basic. The interior has proven durable over three years, with the steering wheel being the only area showing expected wear. Ambient lighting enhances the modern feel, offering customizable color options.
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VW ID.4 Cargo Capacity and Practicality
Despite its slightly smaller footprint, the VW ID.4 boasts impressive cargo space for its class. The less sloping roofline and the efficient packaging of components contribute to a larger cargo area compared to some competitors.
The VW ID.4 offers a generous cargo area for an electric crossover SUV, making it practical for families and road trips.
Comparing Maximum Rear Cargo Space (Rear Seats Folded):
- Volkswagen ID.4: 64.2 cu ft (1,818 L)
- Kia EV6: 50.2 cu ft (1,412 L)
- Ford Mustang Mach-E: 59.7 cu ft (1,691 L)
- Hyundai Ioniq 5: 59.3 cu ft (1,679 L)
- Tesla Model Y: 76.2 cu ft (2,518 L)
VW ID.4 Exterior Styling and Build Quality
In my opinion, the VW ID.4 is one of the most visually appealing electric crossover SUVs available. The Glacier White Metallic paint on my vehicle has maintained its excellent condition with no signs of peeling or damage.
The VW ID.4’s matrix LED headlights are not only stylish but also incorporate cornering lights for enhanced visibility in turns.
The paint’s durability is likely aided by the plastic molding that wraps around the vehicle’s lower perimeter, protecting vulnerable areas from road debris. Regular hand washing with a gentle car wash product also helps maintain the paint. Despite these protective measures, the VW ID.4 has accumulated some minor dings over time. Features like Sentry Mode, for recording such incidents, would be a beneficial addition.
Related Reading: VW ID4: Maintenance & Reliability After 50,000 Miles
VW ID.4 Headlights and Visibility
The VW ID.4 is equipped with impressive matrix LED headlights that provide excellent illumination without causing glare for other drivers. The automatic high beam assist functions reliably. A notable feature is the cornering lights, which illuminate the sides of the road during turns, enhancing nighttime driving safety.
Side View Mirrors, Door Handles, and Liftgate
Unlike some EVs that compromise mirror size for aerodynamic efficiency, the VW ID.4 features generously sized side mirrors. These mirrors, while seemingly minor, significantly improve driving safety and visibility. They are electrically adjustable and heated but do not include automatic folding based on location.
The rear of the VW ID.4 First Edition features a distinctive light bar and an optional power liftgate for convenience.
The VW ID.4’s aerodynamic door handles are well-designed and intuitive. Opening the doors is done by simply reaching under the handle and squeezing a pad. The keyless entry and proximity unlock systems work consistently and at appropriate distances. However, a walk-away auto-locking feature is absent, requiring manual locking by touching an indentation on the handle.
The rear of the VW ID.4 features a futuristic light bar spanning the width of the liftgate. A power liftgate, including a hands-free operation feature, is optional. However, the hands-free feature has been inconsistent in my experience, making button operation more reliable. An optional tow hitch is available, allowing rear-wheel-drive ID.4 models to tow up to 2,200 pounds and all-wheel-drive models up to 2,700 pounds. I have not used the tow hitch for towing but have found it useful for bike racks.
Minor Exterior Build Imperfections
While the VW ID.4 exterior is generally in excellent condition, two minor build issues have been present since delivery. The rear light bar, around the VW logo, has a slight misalignment and can be pushed inwards. Additionally, the front passenger door protrudes slightly at the bottom, although this is barely noticeable.
Exterior Summary
Overall, I am very satisfied with the VW ID.4’s exterior durability. There are no significant issues like rust or large panel gaps. Exterior components fit together well and function as intended. The exterior build quality and durability are consistent with the interior’s robust construction.
VW ID.4 Real-World Range and Battery Performance
The First Edition VW ID.4 has an EPA-estimated range of 250 miles. In practice, it has proven to be a highly capable commuter vehicle and suitable for longer trips, provided access to adequate charging infrastructure.
VW ID.4 Efficiency and Range
The VW ID.4 does not provide lifetime efficiency data, but over the last 13,500 miles, my average efficiency has been 3.4 mi/kWh, slightly exceeding the EPA estimate of 3.3 mi/kWh. This translates to a theoretical range of approximately 260 miles, better than the advertised 250 miles.
The VW ID.4’s recent efficiency data shows it exceeding EPA estimates, achieving better real-world range than advertised.
Factors like speed and weather conditions can significantly influence EV efficiency. Highway range tests in varying temperatures have shown considerable differences.
Battery Degradation and Capacity
Measuring battery degradation is complex. Data from a recent fast-charging session provides some insight:
- Charged from 10% to 81% capacity
- First Edition ID.4 Initial Usable Battery Capacity: 77 kWh
- Expected kWh Needed: 54.7 kWh
- kWh Used: 50.6 kWh
Considering charging station efficiency (around 90-95%), my VW ID.4 may have experienced a usable capacity loss of approximately 5-7 kWh, equating to 15-20 miles of range reduction. While battery degradation is present, it is minimal and not noticeable in daily use.
Home Charging Options
Most of my VW ID.4 charging is done at home using the included Level 1 charging cable. This adds about 3 miles of range per hour. While slow, it suffices for covering the average daily commute for many drivers if plugged in nightly.
A Level 2 portable EV charger like this SplitVolt significantly increases home charging speed for the VW ID.4.
For faster home charging, I purchased a Level 2 portable charger from SplitVolt, utilizing a 240V outlet. This Level 2 charger, while basic, provides a significant speed increase and was a cost-effective option. I primarily use the Level 2 charger during winter, when efficiency decreases, or after longer drives when quicker replenishment is needed. Level 2 chargers can increase charging speeds 5 to 10 times compared to Level 1 charging, but Level 1 is sufficient for many users.
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Public Charging Network Experience
For public charging, I have primarily used the Electrify America network, thanks to the three years of free charging included with my VW ID.4. This benefit has saved me over $1,000 in charging costs, covering nearly 4,000 kWh of energy.
Future access to Tesla Superchargers via the Magic Dock adapter will significantly improve the public charging experience for VW ID.4 owners.
Currently, the VW ID.4 uses CCS-based charging networks, with limited access to Tesla Superchargers at select locations equipped with Magic Dock adapters. However, a partnership with Tesla will expand VW Group EV access to the Supercharger network by the end of 2025. Public charging networks like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America have improved in reliability and availability. While occasional technical and availability issues still occur, public charging has become less problematic than often portrayed.
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VW ID.4 Fast Charging Speed and Accessories
The maximum charging rate I’ve observed on my VW ID.4 at a fast-charging station is 145 kW. The peak charging speed for VW ID.4 models has varied based on software versions. In real-world scenarios, charging from 10% to 80% at a DC fast charger takes approximately 30-40 minutes. While longer than refueling a gasoline car, most charging stations are located at shopping centers or stores, allowing for convenient breaks.
Using a TeslaTap adapter enables VW ID.4 charging at Tesla Destination Chargers, often found at hotels and offering free charging.
A recommended charging accessory for VW ID.4 owners is an adapter for Tesla Destination Chargers. These chargers are frequently available at hotels and other destinations, often offering free charging for guests. A TeslaTap adapter allows VW ID.4 vehicles to utilize these chargers, potentially saving significant charging costs, especially for travelers.
Range and Charging Summary
I am pleased with the VW ID.4’s real-world range performance relative to its EPA rating. Public charging infrastructure has improved considerably since I purchased my vehicle and is expected to improve further with future access to the Tesla Supercharger network.
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VW ID.4 Maintenance Costs and Reliability
Electric vehicles are known for lower maintenance needs, and the VW ID.4 has lived up to this expectation. Over 50,000 miles, maintenance costs have been around $1,500, with annual costs projected to decrease.
Tire Replacement and Costs
The majority of maintenance expenses were due to tire replacement. The rear OEM tires lasted approximately 20,000 miles, partly due to the vehicle’s weight and rear-wheel drive configuration. The VW ID.4 uses a staggered tire setup, preventing tire rotation between front and rear axles.
Switching to Michelin CrossClimate2 all-season tires on the VW ID.4 has improved tire longevity and reduced replacement costs.
When replacing the tires, I opted for Michelin CrossClimate2 all-season tires, known for their longer tread life. Despite initial concerns about range reduction and increased noise, these tires have performed well. After 35,000 miles on the Michelin CrossClimate2s, they still have substantial tread remaining. As they cost about the same as the OEM tires, I plan to continue using Michelin CrossClimate2s.
Related Reading: VW ID4: Maintenance & Reliability After 50,000 Miles
Other Maintenance and Service
Besides tires, the only other maintenance costs have been for wiper blade and cabin filter replacements. Service visits to the VW dealership have been minimal, primarily for a door handle recall, a general inspection, and a software update that included a preemptive 12V battery replacement.
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VW ID.4 Reliability Assessment
The VW ID.4 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has never experienced any driving or charging failures, even in extreme temperatures. This reliability is a significant advantage of EV ownership.
Software issues remain a weak point for the VW ID.4, despite some improvements through updates.
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VW ID.4 Software and Mobile App Experience
Software is a known weak point of the VW ID.4, including both the infotainment system and the mobile app. Both can be slow and unresponsive. Software updates were initially infrequent, with the first update arriving two and a half years after purchase and requiring a dealership visit.
Infotainment System Performance
The infotainment system has shown some improvements through updates but remains somewhat laggy at times. Daily usability has improved as the system warms up after a few minutes of operation. Software updates have reorganized menus, fixed issues like scheduled charging, and added features like auto hold. However, updates have also introduced new quirks, such as a driver profile selection screen that appears every time the vehicle is started.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported and generally function well, although occasional connectivity issues can occur. Infotainment system customization options are limited to preset templates and widgets. Advanced features like Sentry Mode, dog mode, or video streaming are not available. Navigation and basic functions are present, but the software lacks the polish and advanced features found in some competitors.
Related Reading: 25+ VW ID4 Voice Commands (From an Owner)
Mobile App Functionality
The VW ID.4 mobile app has improved in connectivity reliability but remains basic. Remote features are limited. New options like adjusting charging limits have been added, but remote locking/unlocking is still absent. The app is quite basic in features and design.
The VW ID.4 mobile app is functional but lacks features and polish compared to competitor apps.
Sound System Quality
Most VW ID.4 models come with a basic 7-speaker sound system. Sound quality is adequate but unexceptional. The Pro S Plus trim offers an upgraded 10-speaker Harman Kardon system for improved audio performance.
Software Limitations Summary
Despite minor improvements, the VW ID.4 software remains a below-average aspect of the vehicle. Significant improvements are unlikely in the future for older models. A planned over-the-air update was rolled back due to issues, and OTA updates for First Edition models are uncertain.
VW ID.4 Driving Experience and Features
The VW ID.4 delivers a pleasant driving experience, especially for those seeking a traditional crossover feel. The higher seating position provides an SUV-like view of the road. The rear-wheel-drive VW ID.4 achieves 0-60 mph in approximately seven seconds, with smooth and controlled acceleration.
The elevated driving position in the VW ID.4 provides good visibility and a familiar SUV-like feel.
Regenerative Braking and Handling
The VW ID.4 allows for regenerative braking to be disabled, offering a more traditional driving feel if desired. A recent software update added an auto-hold feature, maintaining vehicle standstill without needing to hold the brake pedal. However, true one-pedal driving is not available; physical braking is required to bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
The VW ID.4’s suspension provides a comfortable ride quality that balances smoothness and control.
The suspension provides a good balance of comfort and control, avoiding excessive stiffness or bounciness. Ride quality is above average for the class, despite the vehicle’s weight. The VW ID.4 has a tight turning radius, enhancing maneuverability in urban environments. Drive modes offer limited customization, primarily affecting steering feel.
Visibility and Safety Systems
Visibility is generally good, with reasonably sized A-pillars and large side mirrors. The backup camera quality is satisfactory, with a preferred wide-angle view option, although the default view cannot be changed. Driver-assistance features like auto high beams, auto wipers, and blind-spot monitoring operate reliably. Forward and rear collision warnings and automatic emergency braking systems are also included and have proven useful.
Self-Driving Capabilities and Cabin Noise
The VW ID.4’s self-driving capabilities are limited to highway driving assistance, including steering and speed maintenance via adaptive cruise control. It is not designed for complex driving scenarios like curvy roads or construction zones.
Cabin noise levels are average for highway speeds. A comparison with a Tesla Model Y showed slightly higher noise levels in the VW ID.4, but the cabin is not considered loud.
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VW ID.4 Recommendation and Ownership Decision
Knowing what I know now, I would still choose the VW ID.4 if I were making the purchase decision back in 2021. However, in today’s EV market, my recommendation is more conditional. The VW ID.4’s strong selling points include its price, especially with eligibility for the full $7,500 federal tax credit, making it one of the more affordable electric SUVs.
The VW ID.4 remains a compelling EV choice, especially for buyers prioritizing value and practicality in an electric SUV.
The VW ID.4 is a suitable choice for those seeking a comfortable, traditionally styled electric crossover with ample cargo space, decent range and charging speeds, and essential driver-assistance and safety features. However, if performance and cutting-edge technology are top priorities, and software quirks are a major concern, other EVs might be more suitable.
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As for selling my 2021 VW ID.4 First Edition, the answer is no, not in the near future. The vehicle’s reliability and build quality have earned my trust, and I am willing to overlook the software limitations for the continued ownership experience.
