FIRST DRIVE: 2024 VW ID.4 IS THE OPENING ACT IT WAS SUPPOSED TO BE

VW has made things right, just in the nick of time.

Volkswagen is stirring anticipation with the upcoming ID.4 Buzz electric van and the sleek, road-trip-ready VW ID.7 hatchback. Recently, they unveiled a versatile and family-friendly EV that excels in almost every aspect.

Volkswagen laid the groundwork for this moment years ago. Long before the ID.4 made its North American debut in early 2021, VW positioned it as the electric vehicle that mainstream consumers could easily understand and recognize as superior to best-sellers like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester.

In short, I am thoroughly impressed with how the 2024 vw id.4 rides, drives, and handles within its intended scope. It features a well-equipped, spacious, and intelligently designed interior, along with relatively quick charging and a practical real-world range. It is perfectly suited for those venturing into the EV world for the first
time.

However, when the 2024 vw id.4 was initially released, VW seemed to overlook the simplicity that mainstream crossover drivers were accustomed to. The interface did not align with the mainstream ethos at all. With haptic (touch-sensing) controls below the screen and haptic buttons and surfaces on the steering wheel, the system felt unfinished, reminiscent of an off-brand tablet maker’s early attempts.

2024 VW ID. 4 interface now feels built for EV drivers

Volkswagen has overhauled the interface to enhance usability, designed as if by those who drive, use, and charge the vehicle. The new 12.9-inch display is available on all models except the base ID.4 Standard, features significantly enhanced processing power. Climate controls are conveniently located at the bottom of the screen, with a top tray of shortcut icons for swift access to essential functions. Submenus appear on the left and expand to the right. Taking cues from Tesla, additional screen menus offer thorough explanations of various features, improving overall usability.

The upgraded hardware excels in responsiveness, crucial for moments when drivers need instant interaction with screen icons or menus.

Upon delving into the interface, it quickly becomes apparent how intuitive it is, particularly for those new to the system. The native navigation integrates trip planning capabilities, facilitating easy adjustments to routes to include various charging stations along the journey. When connected to a charger, the system provides clarity on the maximum DC fast-charging rate, dispelling any uncertainty about its capabilities. Activating battery preconditioning for rapid charging stops is simple—just press a virtual button or set it to activate automatically—and you can monitor the anticipated gains in real time.

Moreover, you can seamlessly connect your iPhone or Android device wirelessly through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, bypassing most of the menu intricacies, and appreciating the 2024 vw id.4’s straightforward controls. It retains familiar features such as turn-signal indicators, door handles, traditional steering-wheel adjustments, and mirror controls. However, you may encounter universal power-window controls that combine front and rear windows into a single switch, which may require some adjustment.

More punch, more range

The 2024 vw id.4 has always embodied its mission with a dynamic prowess that blends ride comfort and handling superiority, distinguishing itself from competitors in its class. Volkswagen has maintained these strengths in the 2024 model while pushing further enhancements, notably in acceleration thanks to the introduction of the AP550, a new internally developed rear motor unit also set to debut in the ID.7.

Notable increases in power are evident in rear-wheel-drive versions equipped with the 82-kWh (77 kWh usable) battery pack, now delivering 282 horsepower and 402 lb-ft of torque compared to 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft previously. Dual-motor all-wheel-drive models have also received a boost to 335 horsepower from 295 horsepower. The front motor in AWD configurations remains unchanged, utilizing an induction unit rated at 107 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque.

The addition of the new rear motor unit not only enhances performance but also improves efficiency, enabling AWD variants to achieve 0-60 mph in under five seconds. Meanwhile, EPA range ratings have seen slight improvements: the AWD model now reaches 263 miles compared to 255 miles previously, and the single-motor rear-wheel-drive version extends to 291 miles from 275 miles.

Efficiency remains notable based on initial evaluations. During an energetic 69-mile journey across Los Angeles’ diverse roads, including boulevards, freeways, and Angeles Crest Highway, in a dual-motor Pro S AWD model, my co-driver and I achieved an average of 3.0 miles per kWh. On a shorter, level route using the Pro S single-motor rear-wheel-drive variant, I managed 3.5 miles per kWh, all in mild temperatures around the 60s Fahrenheit.

However, it’s worth highlighting that the base 2024 vw id.4 Standard, priced at $41,160 with a 62-kWh battery pack (58 kWh usable) and only available in rear-wheel drive, retains the older 201-horsepower rear motor unit and a 12.0-inch screen. We will delve deeper into this model soon, as it currently stands apart from the rest of the lineup.

Standard versions also peak at 140 kW for charging, compared to 175 kW for other models. Nevertheless, both versions can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.

Dynamically superb ride, handling, comfort

On boulevards, freeways, and during daily commutes, the 2024 vw id.4 presents a near-luxury car experience with its emphasis on smooth ride quality, a serene cabin environment, and effective mitigation of road imperfections. Initially, one might underestimate its ability for sharp cornering or aggressive maneuvers in canyons. However, activating Sport mode unveils its dynamic capabilities, enhancing acceleration and steering response. This transformation demonstrates that beneath its unassuming exterior, the 2024 VW ID. 4 is capable of spirited driving performance when challenged.

When we ventured onto California’s picturesque and technically demanding Angeles Crest Highway, initial impressions were quickly overturned—impressing us greatly with VW’s chassis tuning. The 2024 vw id.4 excels in blending ride comfort and handling prowess, even with my test Pro S model sporting low-profile 20-inch tires and without the use of air suspension or adaptive damping. All-wheel-drive variants maintain a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, now with slightly more power directed to the rear wheels, allowing for controlled tail rotation in tight corners with added enthusiasm.

The 2024 vw id.4 incorporates a regenerative braking system that emphasizes simplicity but may polarize drivers based on their preferences. In contrast to competitors like Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, which features paddle shifters for multi-level regenerative braking control, the ID.4 opts for a straightforward approach with ‘D’ and ‘B’ settings on the shift stalk. Although the shift stalk no longer prominently extends from the gauge cluster, it still allows twisting to adjust settings.

In ‘D’ mode, regenerative braking is minimal, enabling extended coasting similar to conventional gasoline vehicles. Activating ‘B’ enhances regenerative braking to a maximum of 0.13g, albeit less aggressive compared to EVs with higher regen capabilities or dedicated “one-pedal” driving modes. Nevertheless, the system effectively captures and reclaims energy during braking, seamlessly integrating it into the overall driving experience.

2024 VW ID. 4 is tops for seating and space

The 2024 VW ID. 4 continues to impress with its seating comfort. While many electric vehicles compromise on lower cushion support to accommodate larger battery packs, the 2024 vw id.4 offers seats that adjust to a comfortable height, providing excellent support for hips and lower back. Whether I’m fitting my tall 6-foot-6 frame into the back seat or installing a child seat, the ID.4’s spacious door openings and generous seat padding make it exceptionally user-friendly.

Turning to its interface, the 2024 vw id.4 features the innovative ID. Light—a dynamic light bar located at the base of the windshield, which delivers clear visual cues through color, direction, and urgency signals for upcoming turns or safety alerts. This feature quickly becomes indispensable after just a few days of use, making you wonder how you managed without it.

However, the 2024 vw id.4 isn’t without its imperfections. Despite its redundant controls and extensive interface options, it can sometimes feel overly complex, particularly due to the numerous submenu screens. These initial observations are based on a brief experience of a few hours with the vehicle. As one becomes more familiar with the layout of the top tray icons and their functions over time, perceptions may improve.

The 2024 VW ID. 4 is a compelling package that will undoubtedly appeal to mainstream crossover families. Apart from extending some of these significant upgrades to the base-battery versions, we sincerely hope VW refrains from further modifications for the next few years—now that it has effectively mastered its appeal.