During my week of driving the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, I had the pleasure of driving it to Marina del Rey. With the estimated 255 miles of driving on a full charge, I had no worries about getting there, back and in-between without charging. But I didn’t even have to think about that as the hotel had a charging station, so I was able to top-off the battery.
For 2023, the ID.4 introduces a fresh, more affordable Standard trim. However, the Standard trim comes with a smaller battery, resulting in a reduced full-charge range, estimated by VW at 208 miles. This year also brings several other updates. Volkswagen has incorporated new standard features, including a 12-inch central touchscreen, an automated parking system, and improved functionality to streamline the charging process at Electrify America DC fast-charging stations. Inside the cabin, the ID.4 now offers fresh seat upholstery options and a variety of new color choices to add sparkle. Additionally, there are new wheel designs as part of the 2023 enhancements.
With seating for five people, the Volkswagen ID.4 comes in four trims: Standard, Pro, Pro S and Pro S Plus. This review will focus on the Pro S trim.
The Pro S trim offers enhanced range and shares almost identical features with the Standard version. Notable additions include adjustable trunk floor panels, a heated windshield (exclusive to AWD models), and a trailer hitch (also exclusive to AWD models). Taking the features up a notch, the Pro S trim introduces a touch of luxury with 20-inch wheels, LED adaptive headlights that swivel with your steering for improved corner illumination, a convenient power tailgate with hands-free operation, an illuminated exterior Volkswagen logo, a heated steering wheel, proximity keyless entry, a panoramic glass roof, sumptuous full faux leather upholstery, and upgraded front seats featuring a soothing massage function.
The Pro S comes equipped with the larger 82-kWh battery pack and all-wheel drive. With one motor running the front wheels and another running the rear the Pro S produces 295 horses. That’s plenty fast. Volkswagen estimates the ID.4 range on a full charge to be 255 miles, however that is subject to power-sucking outside forces like A/C, hills, high speeds, etc.
The ID.4 provides a comfortable highway ride, though hitting larger bumps can be a bit bouncy. Its climate control system functions effectively, primarily operated via the touchscreen interface. Alongside the conventional temperature and fan adjustments, Volkswagen has incorporated unique commands like “warm feet” and “fresh air,” which automatically tailor the settings. However, the ID.4’s touchscreen interface may pose a challenge to navigate, lacking intuitive controls. Even with the inclusion of a larger 12.3-inch standard screen in 2023, issues with the menu structure and layout persist.
Inside, the ID.4 boasts an ingeniously designed interior with ample storage options both within the cabin and in the rear hatch. The rear cargo area offers a respectable 30.3 cubic feet of space, expandable to 64.2 cubic feet when the seats are folded down.
I enjoy driving electric cars and the ID.4 was no exception. It literally glides from a stand-still and with all those ponies under the hood, it gets to speed quickly. It’s got a great turning radius making it easy to park on our urban streets and twisty, hilly terrain.
The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S makes a great choice for an electric, small SUV.
