Should This Be Your First Electric Car? 2023/2024 Volkswagen ID.4 - [ Full Review ]

[@HelloRoad]

What do you think of the ID.4? Also a clarification: when exiting the vehicle you *can* set the A/C to stay on if others are still in the car, but it's not on by default. And for those that are looking for more videos of my '80s/'90s car fleet, don't worry, more vids are coming soon! Thanks for the support! :)

[@markplott4820]

the VW iD.4 is GARBAGE. its Worse made than the FUD motors Muck-e. and According to SANDY , Muck-e was the BEST of the Worst in the WORLD. the Problem with the iD.4 is its too SLOW, too short RANGE and too HEAVY . its built like an OLD FASIONED Horse & Buggy car. it does NOT have any HIGH TECH Features and it cant even Update the Software. this is why the Chinese wont even buy a iD.3 or a iD.4. , it does not have ANY High Tech features that the CHINESE want. the Chinese want a SMART CAR like a TESLA , that has a FRUNK in Addition to the normal Trunk.

[@texaszag8748]

@@markplott4820 You are pretty much FOS. Most of that is pure concoction. You are putting words in Sandy’s mouth. Sandy does not say that the ID4 is garbage. He was complimentary of a lot of what VW did, though he didn’t like the materials they used (weight) for the battery tray or VW’s preference for threaded fasteners. He also didn’t like that VW did not prioritize performance (i.e., 0 to 60 acceleration). But overall he said it was a good car.

[@markplott4820]

@@texaszag8748 - Sandy said of VW " they are DEAD Last with their iD Platform ". 2021. the iD4 is FACTUALLY built like an OLD FASIONED gas car, there is no FRUNK , how come TESLA model Y has more CARGO and has a FRUNK and still has room for its HVAC, BMS, and ADAS Computers ???? Sandy PERFERS the MACH-e to the iD4 , "its a the BEST of the WORST he ever Tested. EXCIPT for TESLA ." Problem with VW is they dont UNDERSTAND EV batteries, Electric Motors and EV Drivetrain. they DONT know how to Build a PROPER BEV Drivetrain & Body optomized for a BEV. SANDY said " the MEB Platform is a DECADE OLD , and need Replacing " for VW to remain Compettive - 2019.

[@texaszag8748]

@@markplott4820 kzbin.info/www/bejne/aXPEk2l5qdmee7s Sandy was very complimentary of VW’s electric motor and design approach. Watch for yourself.

[@markplott4820]

@@texaszag8748 - But, Sandy still thinks the are "DEAD LAST ", said so on E for Electric.

[@BunnyandBman]

I just bought this model, my main decision-makers were tax credit and free charging initially, but after spending a few days with it, I get it now. Like it was pointed out, seats are very comfy, quiet, roomy, and acceleration is more than adequate in everyday driving. Combine all of that with very good warranties and you saved yourself a lot of money over the next 3 years along with a worry-free experience. And one more thing, driving by gas stations at 3 plus dollar per gallon, priceless!

[@DavidMortaz]

3 plus dollars per gallon!?! i wish! we idiots in California are paying near $5 per gallon now.

[@ezpoppy55]

$4.00/ gallon and more here in CA! And just think - the ICE cars are only about 20% efficient, meaning here in CA, fossil car drivers are throwing away $3.20 of every $4 they spend as heat and emissions. Your EV is more like 70-80% efficient.

[@nrich5127]

Reality check: if the battery goes bad after 6 years or it is approaching end of life cycle , the value of the car is zero because the cost of replacement is so high and newer / better technology is now available. Also "first attempts" at new technology are almost never without engineering oversights so who will want it ? So the savings get eaten up by this "Trojan horse".

[@DavidMortaz]

@@nrich5127 Spot on! That's why Used Nissan Leaf is selling for less than $5K !! The batteries are so degraded so much that some owners can NOT even make it to the dealership for service!! That's why you lease is the only option for EVs till Solid State batteries rollout and prove viable! By the time your 3 year lease expires, you should have enough juice to drop the keys off at the dealership and Uber home.

[@BunnyandBman]

@@nrich5127 I have yet to keep a car that long ... =)

[@COSolar6419]

I appreciate that you’re reviewing the base Pro model rather than the high end ProS.

[@kevinstewart9060]

Agree, it's the model I am considering because of price. I have a 50 mile round trip commute every day and with the tax credit my payment will only end up about $150 more than I am spending on gas right now.

[@dearbulls]

@@kevinstewart9060 Not only price, but also what's offered and what's missing from the S. I want HUD, seat ventilation which are both not provided. What they provided such as glass roof is nice but useless for me since I live in the south.

[@onederment]

Don't knock it until you try it. On paper it sounds boring but the torque is there and with one speed transmission it feels more progressive than an ice car. 3 year free charging and its a no brainer

[@Cowclops]

Having test drove the RWD in March I agree that while not a speed demon, its smooth and reliable delivery of power is really something else. That said, I'm waiting for my AWD to show up which adds an extra 100HP up front and should take away any of the "its not slow but its definitely not fast" arguments.

[@R56Cooper]

Yes, very much looking forward to the 3 year free charging!

[@PG-zc9pn]

I bought one and love it! It is fantastic on the highway and a breeze driving thru town. The interactive display works fairly well. All in all it's a great car!

[@twigs971]

This car is pretty awesome value, even compared to standard gas crossovers (which already feeling a bit prehistoric these days) - the bonus being that the ID4 is solid ride, with zero emissions, decent range and budget friendly makes it a really great choice for anyone really.

[@mowcowbell]

I think the window switch setup is genius. Can't tell you how many times I've reached for my driver's window and accidentally rolled down the driver's side passenger window. I rarely roll down the rear windows from the driver's seat in any vehicle I've owned.

[@joeisawesome540]

I have the same problem. I never use the rear one.

[@8020vision]

Stoked about the ID.4 and ordered the Pro S after test driving it. Replacing my Honda CRV. I also have a 2013 Nissan Leaf.

[@barryh13]

You will love it! I got a First Edition here in Austria back in March and it is an awesome car. The kids love it! Only issue is the software, but I use CarPlay most of the time so a non-issue.

[@noorghani5053]

Awesome this car is great. Got one after testing the more expensive model y and honestly I didn't need to get the model y over the pro s id4 because of the more comfort features I get like massage seats etc in the ID4. You will be very happy with your purchase.

[@dearbulls]

Thanks for the review. It's so rare to see a pro model other than pro s 1st ed. every other reviewer had. I found most of the pricey "luxury" items are useless or even harmful for us living in the south, such as the big glass roof (greenhouse alert), fake leather seats WITHOUT ventilator (burn azzes). Some are kinda useful, such as the auto tailgate, 2 tier cargo space, seat memory, auto fold mirrors, turning headlight. And some features I don't really care about, such as the 2 inches bigger screen, light up front emblem, seat massage (really just 2 air bladder in the back, I'd rather have seat ventilation, VW). So I just ordered a PRO with AWD. Maybe I'll take it to beaches or dirt road, AWD would be helpful although we don't really get any snow. People just had the illusion that for us living in the south, AWD is useless.

[@RetroCarsForever]

Piano black is the 2020s version of the 1970s faux woodgrain trim... "Fancy" for the moment but so overplayed it's going to signify of the decade it was made in very quickly!

[@NarfBLAST]

I like manual climate contro, I like having three knobs: temperature, fan speed, vent control.

[@carolc4862]

Bought a Pro S 3 weeks ago and love it. Some things aren't terribly intuitive, but once you figure them out it's good. I learned a couple things from the video like how to turn on heated seats since living in FL it hadn't crossed my mind yet, but thanks! I use the (free) Electrify America near by for major charging and just top off with the level 1 in-between at home.

[@Cowclops]

Lane keep assist is not the autonomous driving mode. You have to turn on "Travel Assist" via the lower right button on the steering wheel. With that enabled, it will actually center you in the lane and not bounce you back and forth. You were just letting a safety feature of the car bounce you around withjout actually turning on travel assist.

[@vwphred]

Don't understand the critical remarks about the two window buttons. It is simply brilliant.

[@larryaugsburger8452]

The overuse of capacitive touch to, I guess, reduce costs, is the main reason I’m looking elsewhere

[@tominftlthomasp3559]

Nice that you didn’t review the top of the line. I just need comfortable seats and a decent ride. I would like any EV so I can charge at home. I used to lease a Chevy Volt. I had 45 miles of electricity and then it would switch seamlessly to gas. It was too low and didn’t have A/C for the rear seats. I got spoiled though not having to go to the gas station all the time. That car really saved me a lot of money and I would revisit EV’s in a year or two. (Lots of them coming out in the next few years.) I would like to test drive an Id4 just to see how it is.

[@hubbert22]

Great review! I think it’s the perfect car for changing from an ICE to an EV and more affordable than a lot of them.

[@earlgrimace]

I really appreciate your insightful and informative video of the ID.4. I have the FE and i can say that the way you presented the essential features of the vehicle is so much better than other similar videos here. Great job on this and kudos to your simple, yet straight forward presentation of this very amazing vehicle. Greetings from Florida!

[@ezpoppy55]

Terrific, well-rounded, and informative video, Ethan! My wife sold her Camry to get the ID.4 Pro, and she loves it (I have a Tesla Model 3, which inspired her to go EV). I’ve driven her ID.4, and it is, as you say, practical, well-appointed, and very good as a crossover. It certainly has every reason to hold its head up high among its competitors. The fact that she dumped her Camry and jumped into the EV world with this vehicle speaks louder than anything I could say! Thank you for your great video. It does not sugar-coat, nor does it wantonly disparage, the vehicle and its capabilities. Well done!

[@dethpuck]

Great fair reivew. yep convinced. I ordered this exact car last week.

[@jessicaal415]

I got the same color in Pro S. And yes, it’s more expensive but it also feels more expensive. I was driving an Audi and a Benz prior. My ID4 feels luxurious enough. Again, Pro S makes a lot of difference. $7500 fed credit + $1500 CA upfront. I am taking advantage of other rebates and incentives. Other local rebates, electric/my level 2 charger almost free after rebate and HOV sticker. Can’t beat all that. Again, I’m very very happy. My first EV? Absolutely but no regrets. 3 year unlimited EA dc charging.

[@ericswenson322]

@@jessicaal415 ordered the same as you except the AWD. Trying to forget how long it may take to get it.

[@ericpermut]

Thanks Ethan--really informative. The dual-motor ID.4 (ought to be pretty quick, right?) tops my sister's list for her next car. The shape of the cargo area should be much better for dog kennels than the Mach E and Model Y, don't you think? We're also planning on trailering Dad's 2,200 lb boat with it. I hope I don't get so hooked on the ID that I won't want to drive the 2016 LEAF, though.

[@PedroBrandaodrums]

Just got my Pro S Car is fantastic, got the torque I need people have to understand this is a family car not a performance car. Car is very spacious and drives really well. I’m very happy with it. Great video

[@topboxing4764]

Nice work, we should be careful not to compare everything to a Tesla. My daughter picked up a Pro S last night, and we already love it.

[@HelloRoad]

You might be surprised but some people care about what the interior looks like 🤯

[@noahsias]

I appreciate your honesty. Some other videos on here go too far off the deep end in either direction with this car. I’m not in the market just yet for a new car but EVs have been on my mind. This one has been a pretty strong contender for consideration. Kind of waiting to see how the AWD model turns out.

[@ericswenson322]

Also waiting to try the AWD. From what I have read it will have 100 hp more and is quicker, about 5.7 to 60.

[@gallivantingsprt]

I don't understand why every other review of this car says that having 2 window buttons is bad. How often do you need to open the rear windows anyway? I accidentally opened rear windows more often than when I actually needed to. This seems like a well thought out solution.

[@evfocusnow1498]

good job and I just bought one to replace my Bolt . Its the best EV for first time EV buyers in my opinion.

[@evfocusnow1498]

Oh there is also a setting to have the AC stay on if the driver leaves the vehicle or gets out of the driver seats for a few minutes.

[@noorghani5053]

Not only for first time buyers but also for those who have had an EV. We had a model 3 tested a model y but ultimately chose this. Great car. You will be very happy with your purchase.

[@evfocusnow1498]

@@noorghani5053 Your absolutely right Noor as this car was used to replace my Bolt which I did love as a great city car. I have a model 3 and waiting until next year to replace my plug minivan with the Cyber truck I have a reservation for. VW did a great job as the ID 4 is a great EV.

[@eliasdesta52]

I am in between RAV 4 and ID 4. Good review. What is the best range you have been able to achieve? I live in a city and always stop and go traffic, specially in rush hours, would that be the better alternative to hybrid? I have already built level 2 charger outlet 240v/40 amp line in my garage. I plan to keep my ICE car but I wanted the EV for city driving.

[@JVoltCUAF]

how is this car. in the snow i live in colorado and rear wheel drive is usualy seen as bad in the snow. i have been curious as to how this one does.

[@jmadway]

Thanks for the review. Test drove this, and thought it was fine. I currently own an eGolf (my 2nd one) so have been drinking an EV for the last 6 years. Never going back to gas. Anyway, I’m holding out for the Ioniq 5, at least to see it in person and test drive it. It’s going to be a bit more expensive than the ID4, I think, but they love it in Europe and Asia. The ID4 seems to be lacking just a bit…

[@7spower998]

Thanks, Ethan for the review. 9:58 It's the same concept as the outside rearview mirrors. One toggle switch to control the L & R outside rear mirrors. It's simplicity vs complexity. 12:15 No, frunk means no nose-heavy weight ahead of the front axle which gives FWD handling characteristics. Without it makes it more of a RWD-like neutral handling vehicle. And that is a bonus. 14:48 No 1-pedal driving - Coasting and Creep mode applies Newton's 1st law to the fullest. It's more efficient and takes less energy to accelerate a vehicle in motion than from rest.

[@onederment]

To choose the mirrors, twist the knob.

[@7spower998]

@@onederment Exactly my point. There are no two switches, just one to operate the L or R outside the rearview mirror. Once one side is selected, then use the toggle switch to adjust the position of the mirror to the driver's liking. So the rear windows operate on the same concept. Simplicity - KISS, not complexity.

[@HelloRoad]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I totally understand the desire to try something new with the window/mirror controls. They were just a bit too finicky for me, but I'm glad to see that others like it! Regarding the frunk, all I would've liked to see is a place to store the charging cord up front. :)

[@7spower998]

@@HelloRoad Gotcha.

[@chopsueykungfu]

Should it be my first EV? Yes, it is. Bought it 6 weeks ago.

[@patrickmason6971]

My dad used to be Mr V8 Only but after looking at the ID4 he really likes it

[@siamiam]

really impressive camera shots, editing and sound in this video , really like that over head shot of driving over the canyon . stuffed toy too :D the id.4 is a nice package , not too keep on the climate control and shiftier , would take some getting used to . unfortunately there are no charging stations in my state, with the highest electric rate in the country and the time it would take to charge at home id have to go for a gas powered or a hybrid which i could drive all day with no issue . i did see that car and driver did get 190 miles on their test loop which isnt too bad for a ev . if i was in the market i would get a rav4 prime or a crv

[@miami3863]

I have a 2019 egolf top trim, just test drove a 1st Edition ID4, and a MY 7 seater. If the ID4 is in your price rage and mileage fits your lifestyle, BUY IT! The build qualify far better than Tesla. However with that being said I’m ordering the MY 7 seater. If VW releases the 3rd row ID6 I’ll gladly trade in for that.

[@cityblue0202]

I am in the uk and I just ordered an Id4 in the same grey with the 52kw version, costing £31000 after government deductions

[@texaszag8748]

I have the ID4 first edition. First, fast charging is a little deceptive. VW has a relatively flat charging curve while others like Tesla appear to dive off pretty quickly. I have heard other reviewers say that when you factor the curve, Tesla’s do not charge that much quicker than the ID4. Also, they say the VW is slow, but compared to gas SUVs in its class it is quite competent. I am not really wanting for acceleration in driving conditions I experience on the road. Not that long ago, 7.5 sec. to 60 was considered fast. There is no compelling need for sub 4 second times.

[@onederment]

I am constantly adjusting the speed down so that I am within the speed limit +10. It’s so torque. It’s a big car and speed seems slower in it

[@antonthompson7838]

There’s also a voice assistant so when you’re driving you don’t need to use the touchscreen to change temperature or music among other things. You can also download Amazon Alexa to do things like open the garage door or turn on your home lighting and heating. Next time I shop for a brand new car I might get the ID.4 but it depends what else is available for the same money!✌️

[@HelloRoad]

Yes! I actually filmed a whole section with the voice assistant, but I left it out of the video to keep it a bit shorter. Other reviewers reported problems with the voice assistant but it actually worked pretty well for me. It was just really slow to respond. :)

[@nolarobert]

A well-done review of the ID4. I feel like I have a much better idea of what it is all about. We had a Honda CR-V and then moved to a Ford Escape. The Escape gets @ 30 MPG on the highway which is adequate for now. I don't see us looking at an EV until the mileage makes another significant jump and we get a better charging infrastructure. We take 300-500 mile trips to see friends and family and the EV range just isn't there for us. If I were to give EVs a look, I admit that I really like the Mach-E the best. It has cool styling and the interior looks sweet. I am already familiar with SYNC3, so the SYNC4 should be easy to use. EVs have come a long way over the past 25 years. I'd say I'll be ready to seriously consider one in the next 5-7 years. Maybe I can get a Mr. Fusion-powered DeLorean!

[@markplott4820]

too bad the iD.4 is made like an OLD FASHIONED Horse & Buggy car, not at all Efficient, no FRUNK, no HIGH TECH Features, and According to SANDY the car is too HEAVY.

[@onederment]

More airbnb's are providing level 2 chargers... now that becomes quite attractive when planning a long trip

[@Hogtown1986]

@@markplott4820 Sandy has dementia. Have you seen his pathetic meltdown driving the ID4? I don’t get reviewer obsession with frunks. It’s rear space is comparable to a RAV or CRV, which it competes with. I prefer having the maintenance items easily accessible vs having to take off panels.

[@markplott4820]

@@Hogtown1986 - it shows the ADVANCED Engineering , with a Completely FLAT battery Pack, and Advanced enginering of the HVAC, BMS and Cooling system. LEGACY Auto ONLY builds DUMB Electric cars, TESLA builds Advanced SMART cars, thats the Difference. CHINA knows this and thats why the HATE the VW iD3 , they know its GARBAGE. they like High Tech SMART cars like Xpeng, NIO and TESLA.

[@geoffreyreuther5260]

"Set interior lighting to T-Mobile... Engage!" The ID.4's got an attractive price and inoffensive styling (a plus for many buyers). Those interior controls would drive me nuts, along with the auto-shutoff "feature". If I didn't already have an EV, I would definitely wait a little bit and get the Ioniq 5. Right around the same size, better and more usable interior (IMO, anyway), faster DC charging (already available where I live), optional VTL capability, and much better looking to boot. Also, more color options across the board (including a dark green interior on the SEL and Limited, and no requirement to buy the top trim to get an exterior color that's not a shade of gray)

[@texaszag8748]

I bought the ID4 and I am very comfortable with the controls. They shorty become intuitive. And the auto shutoff is no big deal, because when you disengage the seatbelt you are given an opportunity to keep climate control on. Easy.

[@proudvirginian]

I think it's a great car and will pick up my identical Pro in Moonstone Gray on Saturday! Woohoo!!

[@ericswenson322]

great color choice, have fun!

[@MrMlyarber]

Can't wait for the ID Buzz!

[@andrewjoy8364]

After a test drive I ordered one. Should have come in June. Still waiting due to the chip shortage. Might be ready in September.

[@ericswenson322]

yeah, I am trying to be patient, trying to be patient, trying to be patient...

[@philippoon8879]

For an electric vehicle with a shorter front end, don't expect a front trunk. Then for myself I'm awaiting for a lower KwH version that's coming up for the Canada-US market.

[@snafees7]

I am based in California . and my dealer wants 43+k for this nice vehicle but yet I am looking forward to the total amount of incentives ....Does it qualify for 7500 $ rebate plus the California clean fuel ?

[@RobinLights]

Nice review Ethan.. 👍

[@DavidMortaz]

ID.4 Pro comes in Silver too. But we opted for Moonstone as well.

[@carlseiler6441]

Have you and Paul done an episode on the trend towards all these nonmetallic “putty” colors out there? I say bring back teal, green, purple, and brown. …Yes, my first car was a brown 626 hardtop coupe.

[@Anberel]

The moonstone color is weirdly growing on me.

[@toothferrin]

I don’t dig the massive amount of plastic on the rear bumper. And I don’t like the digital steering wheel buttons and media center. I like buttons.

[@QueenDj0ss]

Great review. Thank you!

[@HelloRoad]

Thank you! And thanks for watching.

[@dancar02]

Thank you for reviwing this model. I am considering the PRO. I am new to EV experience.

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

No question that’s the best value EV on the market, about the same price as the Tesla model 3, but more car with an SUV…. If they had just got it to 300 miles of range, it would absolutely be perfect.

[@Matt-pj3ue]

Thanks for the video.

[@Anberel]

I always need to know how many singamajigs my car can hold. 🤣 Great review.

[@HelloRoad]

Very important stuff!! :) Glad you enjoyed the review!

[@MatthewLarsen]

Your “this thing” count in this video is VERY impressive

[@HelloRoad]

Thank you. I strive for 100+ per video. Also might have said the word "incredibly" 37 times as well

[@oscar2056]

I'm definitely enjoying my new id4

[@DaraM73]

Are you sure you’ve got 201hp motor in the “pro” model? In Europe it’s a max of 175hp

[@tracyjiang2576]

In the USA, the VW id4 rwd pro, 1st edition, and pro-s models, they all have only a 82 kWh battery and 201hp motor. Later this year they will also have a VW id4 pro and pro-s with Awd version for sale

[@skepticalmechanic]

Glad I bought the 2021 Kona EV...

[@jefferysmith3930]

Great review. Probably Not a car I would buy... but great engaging review

[@HelloRoad]

Thanks!!!

[@billbradley2480]

Another reviewer said the ID4 Pro is $35,000. You say $40,000. Which is it?

[@HelloRoad]

In the US, the MSRP is $39,995. It can be as low as $32,495 after any potential federal tax credits.

[@billbradley2480]

@@HelloRoad ok thanks. I heard the tax credit is going up in 2022

[@ChicagoBob123]

The ID 4 AWD pro or pro s is the car to get. More horses, quicker and awd for winter

[@DavidMortaz]

VW has fired the Design Team who eliminated the Rear window buttons!

[@DrsDPG]

Charging curve tells the complete story on how fast it charges. ID4 maintains 125 kw lot longer than Mach-e. Tesla will be quicker but not by lot.

[@martinezmartinez1132]

Tesla and Mac E are way over price for a little more range than the ID4...this care is perfect for 95% of customers

[@DavidMortaz]

Infotainment software does suck for sure !

[@barrytibbetts8457]

I want one 4wd with gradient package

[@pierrec.5516]

The touch controls are way too fussy for me. Car companies have to think about the driver keeping their eyes on the road, not touch sensitive buttons. And have multiple steps to adjust temperature, too fussy.

[@stevewalls7812]

you just use voice.... honestly, I rarely touch a button

[@HelloRoad]

@@stevewalls7812 I liked the voice controls, but they were pretty slow to respond. I hope they can speed it up at some point! :)

[@miraclebanks4069]

Just reserved mine

[@terryaustad]

Love ours great review

[@DragPakMerc]

Hopefully its more appealing in person, but the clear-over-primer color is a hard No on first impression.

[@JeanPierreWhite]

Your daughter asked you to set pink and purple light accents. I'm somewhat skeptical, did your daughter also tell you to wear yellow shoes? No, I didn't think so. Just kidding. Great review thanks. Turning the climate control defeated us when we took a test drive. Had to pull over and it still took a few minutes to figure it out lol.

[@kelemenkaban2505]

Some metallic green or blue would do justice to the shape of the body. Volkswagen, if you want this to be an everyday car, offer some actual colours with it. Not everybody is into this techno white/gray.

[@chardyalberto]

is incredible the amount of times he says INCREDIBLE!

[@HelloRoad]

It's a good word!

[@nrich5127]

Before getting too giddy and intoxicated with the smell of a new car , it should be noted that VW has NEVER been renown for reliability so a degree of caution should be shown here. Let's wait a few years to see how well their battery technology fares in the long term before we roll out the "red carpet". This is all new untried technology and there will be "teething problems" until it all gets worked out.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

Great video. Not a bad car. Subbed.

[@HelloRoad]

Thank you!

[@timgrewy4]

Can you please add metric numbers too 😊 - good video

[@HelloRoad]

Yes! I do this occasionally but forgot this time. Will make it a point to add for future vids. Thank you!! :) :)

[@pdegnan4852]

With respect, This is not some kind of revolutionary concept that VW came up with with a "low-cost" EV designed to convert folks from ICE. GM did the same thing 4 years ago with the Chevrolet Bolt / Opel Ampera-E. It'll be interesting to see if VW is more successful. VW is just taking advantage of evolutionary improvements in battery design, and (from the looks of it) designed a much better interior based on what they saw others in the market doing before them. VW also learned from the mistake of GM and Hyundai with rushed battery designs, which are now resulting in NHTSA consumer advisories centered around vehicle fires when the vehicles are placed under aggressive charging/use cycles. The pricing of the ID.4 is almost identical to the Bolt / Ampera-E when GM still qualified for the $7500.00 USD incentives for their products. Also, the $7500.00 credit is a non-refundable tax credit, which requires that you make somewhere in the neighborhood of $63,000.00ish dollars a year to fully take advantage of. Look for the MSRP of the ID.4 to drop (oddly enough) roughly 6-7k when those incentives go away... just like the Bolt did. Also, 3 free years of Electrify America charging is because *VAG is the parent company of Electrify America*, created as a result of their fiasco with fraudulent testing of emissions in their North American VW diesel products. That said - It's a great carrot to dangle in front of potential buyers whose living situation requires street parking, or a communal garage parking where a Level 2 charging isn't an option Another one : VW isn't going to include an Level 2 charger with the car, because : Short of people that have an electric dryer already hooked up in their garage - Most people don't have a NEMA 14-50R or other 240VAC 50A outlet in a location where their car is going to be. The idea with that Level 1 charger is : The OEM provides you something that almost anybody can use immediately. That said - It would be cool if one of the OEMs starting offering EVSE with the car that would easily be switched from 120/240 as needed. Finally : I wouldn't crap on that lack of a "Frunk" too hard. With that lack of a "Frunk", you have a logically laid out mechanical assembly space that will be eons easier to service long term. You want to see what happens when that "Frunk" is deemed a "must" ? Take a look at Munro Associates teardown of the cooling system in the front of the Mustang Mach-E... f**king yikes! VW and GM 100% went the more conservative route with their mechanical/powertrain designs, and it will result in an automobile that is much cheaper to fix long term.

[@Hogtown1986]

Nissan supplies a 240v NEMA 14-50 EVSE with the Leaf. It also comes with a 110 adapter, but by default it’s 240v. Tesla does the same thing. Most people buying an EV will have a 240 outlet installed where they will charge. Otherwise they lose what is arguably the best benefit.

[@ronsmith9674]

When you put the car in park, a "Goodbye" screen appears on the infotainment display. An option is offered to keep the climate system on when the driver exits the car. I believe the system will remain active for twenty minutes. Seems similar to Tesla's "dog mode." Another nice EV feature. I have a Pro AWD on order and look forward to German fit and finish compared with Tesla Y.

[@HelloRoad]

Yes! I left a comment about that above. I hadn't discovered that when I tested the car. Though I don't know if that keeps the stereo on? My kiddo doesn't want her music interrupted! 😆 And agreed, the fit and finish is good!

[@jeffreyrose7788]

I hope you get yours before they are all made in the U.S. I have had my Pro S for a few weeks and have driven under 1000 miles. Nonetheless, I can say as an avid automobile fan ( owned 6 BMW's the 30-year old I still have, and other vehicles including VW bug, two TURG's, and so on this is the most fun car I have ever had driven. It's setup is a little fussy but once you learn it works pretty well. The lack of anything much upfront is an advantage when it comes to turning radius. The 20" wheels are pretty smooth. The fit and finish are nearly perfect. The software will be updated as it is released. Highly recommend this vehicle for its performance and luxury at a relatively low price.

[@starkeybf]

I love this car

[@theta2170]

Glossy black plastic on an interior door handle is possibly one of the worst design decisions anyone has ever made. Why would you want your product to look like a scratched up mess 10 minutes after it leaves the dealership?

[@Estoooopid]

Im from the future and these electrics get a lot better once satellite-charging becomes a thing.

[@hynsum]

ID.4? ....is that Government issued car? Let me guess, they have ID.3, ID.5, ID.6 and so on. Thx Ethan, review is awesome, car looks ok, nothing stand out to me. With all that Gov/Big Tech surveillance nowadays, that name says it all.

[@damilolaakanni]

There's the ID.3 that is sold in Europe. It's smaller than this one. As for the others...I'm not so sure. There was an ID.Buzz concept a few years ago though.

[@jessicaal415]

@@damilolaakanni ID 6 is coming next year, full size SUV.

[@hynsum]

@@jessicaal415 Question 1: I wonder if the car comes with build-in GPS/data/Alexa... that can be accessed by VW or shared with any Corporate or Government agencies? Q2: And if yes, can the vehicle owner turn GPS and any other data off or opted out? I think those are pretty fair and important questions....

[@COSolar6419]

Yawning

[@larryg6865]

When I go electric this will be it.

[@MsPokey1234]

VW would have been my first EV -IF they had done it correctly and offered a EV-BEETLE first as my Second Car! Cheap Simple,& No Self-Drive = $15

[@HelloRoad]

That would be great, but battery cost is currently keeping brand new EVs (with decent range) from being that cheap. Hopefully that will change!

[@victorschepers6286]

Yes pls send it to me in Holland😏

[@DavidMortaz]

I think VW has created a dilemma for itself and most EV buyers by the company's own admission that they aimed it to compete with a Gas powered SUVs! This makes it much harder for most EV buyers to overlook the short comings on Frunk, Range, Charging Speed and horrific UI on the infotainment and charging gymnastics on Electrify America! I guess VW wants EV buyers to commit to the bigotry of lower expectations and buy an ID4 simply because it's slightly better than a RAV4. That's why my only motivation to consider ID4 is the Price with Tax Credit and that's without too much enthusiasm.

[@Hogtown1986]

What is the freaking obsession with frunks?? It has plenty of cargo space - in back where cargo belongs. The hood area gives easy access to maintenance items. Range: 260 miles is VERY competitive unless you’re comparing it to long-range Teslas in another price class. Charging speed: 125 kW is nearly triple the last generation of EVs. Good luck finding a non-Tesla station that can consistently charge faster than 150 kW. You have to also look at the charge curve. The Ford’s is terrible, reducing power early. It sounds like you really want a Tesla, which is OK.

[@DavidMortaz]

@@Hogtown1986 Frunk is just a tip of the iceberg which is the inevitable comparison of ID4 with other EVs. And Tesla has already set the expectations whether VW likes it or not. The exact same thing happens when you go to Microsoft Retail store where you immediately feel the difference with Apple Stores which are often packed with people. It's a very different "experience" despite both being Retail Stores. The same happens with EVs. ID4 is not going to get a PASS, simply because it pollutes less than RAV4! The car is VW's 1st entrance into a brand new category. Most of us were expecting an Apple "experience" but we got Microsoft! Bloated, Slow, buggy product that is uninspiring. I will never mention the missing FRUNK, if VW fixed the charging horror where owner has to enter the Pump Number into the Electrify America App that VW owns. Why couldn't they create an interface between their own Pumps and the Car to charge like Teslas!!?

[@zukiesmith7593]

Yes I will go electric. The I’d 4

[@stefan2796]

Prefer Tesla Model Y. The whole ID serie is way too expensive, has software issues, poor battery management, etc.

[@K6GSXRider]

I would love to buy an electric car but until they purchase price comes down I can't justify paying premium car prices for what would otherwise be a budget car.

[@themockalove]

People will be crashing their ID.4's left and right due to the sheer abundance of unnecessarily complicated interior controls. This might be worse than the Tesla's iPad infotainment.

[@krishi9]

I don't care for rear wheel drive cars.

[@itsyeeoledskoolfurry3208]

The NEWEST truck/crossover most recently reviewed by Doug Demuro is quite distinctive. Memorable??? Maybe?? It's just a UTE like the Subaru Brat is a UTE. Colors for the ID.4?? Wrap it!!! Side note: Those 2 kids plush are rather creepy looking. They have hair scrunchies for mouths. *Cringes*

[@Ben-bs4od]

Ah.... No. Kia would be. Way more reliable.

[@parkershaw8529]

Tesla is kind of expensive, this is not that expensive, but nor cheap either. Not exciting enough to buy.

[@beautyofgrace3915]

I don't like it, it looks like my kia sorento😒 I want a tesla 3 or Hyundai ioniq5!

[@HelloRoad]

The Ioniq 5 looks so good!! 🔥🔥🔥

[@connoransberry6335]

Hate the car

[@infinitesimotel]

VW are not VW anymore.

[@pwj9703]

Stay away from VW.

[@alextheromanian]

VW has a long history of matte rubberized interiors where buttons are that become PEELY...so piano black that wont peel and just needs cleaning i think will be a welcome change. i myself have been so burned by VW twice in a row, i swore id never buy another one again. im open to an EV...but id like to see a few generations worth of long term reviews. i find them to have good motors and transmissions but AWFUL quality control, and TERRIBLE mainenance accessability. my previous VW needed the engine lifted to access bolts on control arms to service bushings. something that should have been a 150$ job was all of the suden closer to a 1000$ i think those are the things most people looking to own vehicles are more interested in. how easy and how cheap they are to service and maintain. VW tends to flirt with making vehicles that are "totaled" by repair costs later in life making them cheap used worthless vehicles...like BMWs

[@michealknox5554]

Meh.

[@HelloRoad]

😭

[@michealknox5554]

@@HelloRoad sorry Ethan, your review was stellar as usual. Just the vehicle and VW in general leaves me cold.

[@HelloRoad]

@@michealknox5554 All good!! :) :)

[@jordanseay216]

Honestly the ID.4 is not my favorite car. It’s just one of those cars I’ve grown to dislike because of the constant adverts alone.

[@xnopyt13]

This has to be one of the worst EV in terms of ergonomics and ease of use. All the touch controls just shows how much cost cutting there are.