After driving the Volkswagen ID4 for three years and covering 50,000 miles, it’s time for an in-depth owner review. There’s a lot to appreciate about this electric SUV, but some aspects have been less impressive. The crucial question remains: would I still recommend the Vw Id4 to potential buyers, and am I considering selling mine? Let’s delve into the details.
Interior Quality, Space, and Comfort of the VW ID4
One of my initial concerns when purchasing the ID4 was the long-term durability of the interior. My model features the First Edition Space Gray interior, which includes lighter shades on elements like the seats, steering wheel, and door handles. Despite the potentially delicate nature of these lighter colors, the interior has held up remarkably well.
To my pleasant surprise, the VW ID4’s interior still looks fantastic even without extensive cleaning. The seats, in particular, show minimal signs of wear and could almost pass as brand new.
Image alt text: Close-up of the VW ID4 driver’s seat in Space Gray interior after three years of use, showing minimal wear and excellent condition, highlighting the durability of the materials.
The door panels and other interior surfaces are also in excellent condition. It’s worth noting that this VW ID4 is my daily driver, regularly exposed to substances known to degrade vinyl interiors, like sunscreen, hairspray, and insect repellent. The fact that the interior has withstood this exposure and remains free of rattles or other unwanted noises is a testament to the overall build quality of the ID4.
For maintaining the interior screens and glossy surfaces, I recommend using an LCD cleaner and microfiber cloths to remove fingerprints and dust. For the vinyl seats and dashboard, unscented baby wipes are ideal to clean without damaging the material.
Cabin Space and Passenger Comfort
While the VW ID4 is slightly more compact than some competitors, measuring around 180 inches in length (about 4-5 inches shorter), it doesn’t compromise on interior space. Even compared to longer EVs like the Tesla Model Y (187 inches), the ID4 provides ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.
Despite its smaller footprint, the VW ID4 maximizes cabin space effectively.
This spaciousness is achieved by relocating many of the vehicle’s electronics to the front trunk area. While this eliminates the possibility of a front trunk for storage, it significantly enhances legroom for front occupants. Like many electric vehicles, the ID4 features a flat floor in the second row, thanks to the absence of a traditional transmission tunnel, further increasing passenger space.
Image alt text: Spacious flat floorboard in the VW ID4’s second row, demonstrating the ample legroom and passenger comfort in the rear cabin of this electric SUV.
Furthermore, the VW ID4’s roofline is designed to be less aggressively sloped compared to many EVs. This design choice directly contributes to excellent headroom in both the front and rear seating areas.
The flatter roofline of the VW ID4 enhances headroom for both rows of passengers, improving overall cabin spaciousness.
Seating Comfort and Features
The vinyl seats in the Volkswagen ID4 strike a good balance between cushioning and support. They are comfortable enough for long journeys, minimizing back discomfort even on extended drives.
Image alt text: Comfortable and supportive vinyl front seats of the VW ID4 First Edition, highlighting the 12-way power adjustability and lumbar support features for enhanced driver and passenger experience.
Both front seats come standard with heating, 12-way power adjustability, and adjustable lumbar support. The system also allows for saving seating position profiles and easy entry settings. A massage feature is included as well, although I personally don’t use it frequently.
While seat ventilation wasn’t available on the First Edition models, it is now an option for the 2024 VW ID4. For those considering purchasing an ID4, I recommend the vinyl seating option. Vinyl is not only easier to clean but also offers better breathability compared to other materials, especially in warmer climates.
HVAC System and Electric Sunshade Performance
The First Edition VW ID4 is equipped with a dual-zone automatic climate control system, allowing individual temperature settings for the driver and front passenger. Many will appreciate the physical air vents that can be fully closed, providing more control over airflow. Rear passengers also have access to manually adjustable vents.
For those who prefer traditional physical vents, the VW ID4 offers a welcome alternative to touchscreen-only vent controls.
However, US-spec VW ID4 models do not include a heat pump, which impacts heating efficiency in colder temperatures. On the positive side, the air conditioning system is exceptionally effective, delivering cold air rapidly even on very hot days.
One of my favorite, and perhaps underrated, features of the ID4 is the electric sunshade for the panoramic glass roof. This sunshade is incredibly useful for preventing the seats from becoming excessively hot when parked in the sun and reduces the workload on the AC system to cool the cabin. The sunshade can also be partially opened or closed, offering flexible sun control.
Image alt text: Electronically controlled sunshade of the Volkswagen ID4, showcasing its ability to regulate sunlight and temperature inside the vehicle for enhanced comfort.
Steering Wheel Wear and Controls
The steering wheel, finished in a lighter color in the First Edition, is the only interior component showing noticeable wear. There are some areas of discoloration and minor degradation of the vinyl. However, considering the usage, the wear is still within acceptable limits, and I’ve seen vinyl steering wheels in much worse condition in similar timeframes.
The steering wheel is the most used part of the VW ID4 interior and shows some expected wear after three years.
Aside from the wear, the steering wheel features a standard design with attractive stitching. It is heated, which is a great comfort feature in colder weather. The wheel includes haptic-touch controls for the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and infotainment system. Personally, I find these controls overly sensitive, which can be a minor annoyance.
Driver’s Display and Infotainment System
Behind the steering wheel is a compact 5-inch driver display mounted on the steering column. The display is modern and straightforward, offering basic customization options. Key information such as speed, battery charge level, and estimated range are clearly presented. The range estimation is generally accurate, provided driving conditions remain consistent.
Image alt text: Basic but informative 5-inch driver display in the VW ID4, showing essential driving data like speed, battery level, and estimated range for the electric vehicle.
The infotainment system is presented on a larger 12-inch horizontal touchscreen in the First Edition. The screen is bright and large, making it easy to view and interact with apps and vehicle settings. However, the software performance is where the system falls short, which I will discuss in more detail later.
The VW ID4 infotainment screen is generously sized, enhancing usability and visibility for vehicle controls and entertainment.
Minor Interior Disappointments
One minor complaint about the interior is the use of gloss black surfaces. These are found on the infotainment screen base and the center console. Gloss black is prone to scratching, difficult to keep clean, and can produce distracting glare in direct sunlight.
Image alt text: Center console of the VW ID4 with gloss black surfaces, highlighting the aesthetic challenge of keeping these areas clean and free of fingerprints and dust.
My biggest frustration with the interior controls is 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, leading to accidental function changes.
These touch-sensitive buttons are overly responsive and prone to accidental activation, detracting from the user experience.
The driver’s window controls are particularly unusual. They feature two physical switches and a touch-sensitive area labeled “rear” to control the rear windows. Activating the rear windows requires tapping this touch area, which is easily done inadvertently, leading to frequent and frustrating mis-operation.
Image alt text: Unconventional driver’s window controls in the VW ID4, featuring a touch-sensitive “rear” button that can be confusing and lead to unintended operation of the rear windows.
Interior Summary
Overall, the VW ID4 interior provides a clean and modern environment. While it uses a mix of hard and soft-touch plastics and may not be the most luxurious in its class, it is spacious, comfortable, and avoids feeling spartan. The interior durability has been impressive over three years, with only the steering wheel showing expected wear.
The VW ID4’s interior balances modern design with practical durability, enhanced by customizable ambient lighting.
The ambient lighting system adds a nice touch, allowing customization of the interior lighting color to personalize the cabin ambiance.
Cargo Capacity and Practicality
Despite its classification as a compact crossover, the Volkswagen ID4 offers commendable cargo space. Being slightly shorter than many competitors, the intelligent design, including a less sloping roofline and efficient component placement, results in a surprisingly generous cargo area. In fact, the ID4 offers more maximum cargo volume than many of its rivals.
Image alt text: Spacious cargo area of the VW ID4 with the rear seats folded down, showcasing its practical storage capacity for an electric crossover SUV.
Comparative Maximum Rear Cargo Space (Rear Seats Folded):
| Vehicle | Length (inches) | Cargo Space (cu ft) |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID4 | 180.5 | 64.2 |
| Kia EV6 | 184.3 | 50.2 |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E | 185.6 | 59.7 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 185.6 | 59.3 |
| Tesla Model Y | 187 | 76.2 |
Exterior Durability and Features
In my opinion, the VW ID4 is one of the more aesthetically pleasing electric crossover SUVs available. The Glacier White Metallic paint on my vehicle has maintained its condition exceptionally well, showing no signs of peeling or damage after three years.
The VW ID4’s exterior paint and body panels have proven to be durable and resistant to wear over time.
The robust plastic molding around the lower perimeter of the vehicle likely contributes to the paint’s excellent condition. This molding effectively protects vulnerable areas from rock chips, dirt, and road debris. I also routinely hand wash the ID4 using a gentle car wash soap, which is formulated to be kind to automotive paint finishes.
Despite these precautions, the ID4 has accumulated some minor dings over the years. The absence of a feature like Tesla’s Sentry Mode, which records events around the vehicle, is a missed opportunity for capturing and deterring such incidents.
Headlights and Visibility
The VW ID4 features impressive matrix LED headlights that provide excellent illumination without causing glare to oncoming traffic. The automatic high beam function operates reliably and effectively. A notable feature is the cornering lights, which illuminate the sides of the road when turning, enhancing safety during nighttime driving.
Image alt text: Bright and efficient Matrix LED headlights of the VW ID4, highlighting the cornering light feature that improves visibility during turns and nighttime driving.
Side View Mirrors
Unlike some EVs where mirror size is reduced for aerodynamic efficiency, the VW ID4 retains generously sized side view mirrors. These larger mirrors significantly improve visibility and safety in daily driving, providing a clearer view of surroundings.
These mirrors are electrically adjustable and heated for convenience. However, they do not automatically fold when parked in tight spaces or based on location, which would be a useful addition.
Door Handles and Keyless Entry
The door handle design on the VW ID4 is both aerodynamic and user-friendly. The handles are seamlessly integrated, requiring a simple squeeze on a pad under the cover to open the door. This intuitive design avoids the need for lengthy explanations to passengers unfamiliar with the system.
The VW ID4 door handles are a well-designed blend of simplicity and aerodynamic efficiency, enhancing the vehicle’s overall design.
The keyless entry system and proximity unlock function work flawlessly at a reasonable distance. However, a walk-away auto-locking feature is absent; locking the doors requires pressing a designated indentation on the handle.
Liftgate and Towing Capability
The rear of the ID4 features a modern light bar extending across the entire width of the liftgate. An optional powered liftgate, including a hands-free operation feature, is available. However, I find the hands-free feature to be inconsistent and prefer using the button for more reliable operation.
The VW ID4 offers an optional tow hitch, enabling rear-wheel-drive models to tow up to 2,200 pounds and all-wheel-drive versions to tow up to 2,700 pounds. While I haven’t used the tow hitch for heavy towing, it has been useful for carrying bike racks.
Minor Exterior Build Imperfections
Despite the generally excellent exterior condition, two minor build issues have been present since delivery. The rear light bar, specifically around the VW logo, doesn’t fit perfectly flush and can be slightly pushed inwards. Additionally, the front passenger door protrudes slightly at the bottom edge, though this is barely noticeable.
The rear light bar on the VW ID4 shows a minor fitment issue near the VW logo, a small imperfection in the otherwise well-built exterior.
Exterior Summary
Overall, I am very satisfied with the long-term durability of the VW ID4’s exterior. There are no significant issues like rust or large panel gaps. Most exterior components fit together as expected and function correctly. The exterior build quality and durability are consistent with the interior’s robustness.
Real-World Range, Battery Performance, and Charging
The First Edition VW ID4 has an EPA-estimated range of 250 miles. In practice, it has proven to be a highly capable commuter vehicle and suitable for longer journeys, assuming access to adequate charging infrastructure.
Excellent Energy Efficiency
The VW ID4, unfortunately, does not provide lifetime energy efficiency data. However, over the last 13,500 miles, my vehicle has averaged 3.4 miles per kWh, slightly exceeding the EPA estimate of 3.3 miles per kWh. This suggests a real-world range closer to 260 miles, better than the advertised 250 miles.
Image alt text: Energy efficiency display of the VW ID4 showing 3.4 miles per kWh over recent driving, indicating better-than-expected real-world energy consumption for this electric SUV.
Of course, energy efficiency in EVs is influenced by factors like speed and weather. Highway range tests in varying temperatures have shown significant differences in energy consumption.
Battery Degradation Assessment
Measuring battery degradation precisely is challenging. Data from a recent fast-charging session provides some insight:
- Charged from 10% to 81% capacity
- First Edition ID4 Initial Usable Battery Capacity: 77 kWh
- Expected kWh Needed: 54.7 kWh
- kWh Used: 50.6 kWh
Considering charging station efficiency is around 90-95%, the data suggests a usable battery capacity reduction of approximately 5-7 kWh, equating to about 15-20 miles of range.
While battery capacity has likely decreased slightly, the reduction is minimal and not noticeable in daily use. For practical purposes, the battery degradation is negligible.
Home Charging Convenience
Most of my charging is done at home using the standard charging cable included with the VW ID4. This Level 1 charging adds about 3 miles of range per hour. While slow, it suffices for replenishing the average daily commute of 40 miles if plugged in nightly.
Home charging with the included Level 1 charger is adequate for daily commutes and convenient for overnight battery replenishment for VW ID4 owners.
For faster home charging, I purchased a portable Level 2 charger a couple of years ago. The SplitVolt charger, while basic, is effective and was among the more affordable options available online.
Image alt text: SplitVolt Level 2 portable EV charger used for home charging of the VW ID4, providing faster charging speeds compared to standard Level 1 charging.
I primarily use the Level 2 charger during winter months when efficiency decreases or after longer weekend drives to ensure a full charge for the week ahead. Level 2 chargers significantly reduce charging times compared to Level 1, but may not be necessary for all users depending on their driving needs.
Public Charging Network Experience
For public charging, I have primarily used the Electrify America network. My VW ID4 included three years of free charging on this network, which has saved me over $1,000 in charging fees, accounting for nearly 4,000 kWh of energy.
The complimentary Electrify America charging access with the VW ID4 has resulted in significant savings on public charging costs over three years.
Currently, the VW ID4 is compatible with CCS-based charging networks, with limited Tesla Supercharger access at select locations equipped with Magic Dock. However, by the end of 2025, VW Group EVs will gain broader access to the Tesla Supercharger network through a partnership with Tesla, significantly improving public charging options.
Image alt text: VW ID4 charging at a Tesla Supercharger station using the Magic Dock adapter, illustrating future compatibility and enhanced public charging access for Volkswagen EVs.
Public charging networks like EVgo, ChargePoint, and Electrify America have improved considerably in reliability and station availability. While occasional technical and availability issues still occur, public charging has become less problematic than often perceived.
Fast Charging Speed
The peak charging rate I’ve observed with my VW ID4 is 145 kW at a fast-charging station. The maximum charging speed for ID4 models has varied based on software versions over time.
Public fast-charging stations are often conveniently located at retail areas like shopping malls, providing opportunities for breaks during charging sessions.
In practical terms, charging from 10% to 80% battery capacity at a DC fast charger typically takes 30-40 minutes. While longer than refueling a gasoline car, these charging stops are usually manageable, especially when combined with shopping or rest breaks at station locations.
Recommended Charging Accessories
Beyond a Level 2 charger for home use, the only charging accessory I recommend for the VW ID4 is an adapter that allows charging at Tesla Destination Chargers. These chargers are often available at hotels and points of interest, sometimes offered for free to guests, which can lead to significant savings on charging costs during travel.
Image alt text: VW ID4 utilizing a TeslaTap adapter to charge at a Tesla Destination Charger, demonstrating the versatility and cost-saving benefits of accessing Tesla’s charging network.
I use a TeslaTap adapter, a well-regarded and reliable option. Various similar adapters are available online for accessing Tesla Destination Chargers.
Range and Charging Summary
I am very pleased with the real-world range performance of the VW ID4, often exceeding the advertised figures. The public charging infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, and access to the Tesla Supercharger network in the near future will further enhance the charging experience for VW ID4 owners.
Maintenance Costs and Long-Term Reliability
Electric vehicles are known for lower maintenance requirements compared to gasoline cars, which translates to long-term cost savings. This has been true for my VW ID4 so far. After over 50,000 miles, maintenance expenses have totaled approximately $1,500, and I expect annual costs to decrease further.
Tire Replacement Costs
The majority of my maintenance expenditure has been on tire replacements, particularly the original rear tires which lasted only about 20,000 miles. This shorter lifespan is partly due to the vehicle’s weight and the rear-wheel-drive configuration, which puts more wear on the rear tires.
The original rear tires on the VW ID4 required replacement relatively early at around 20,000 miles due to wear, typical for rear-wheel-drive EVs.
The VW ID4 uses a staggered tire setup with wider rear tires, preventing tire rotation between front and rear axles. When replacing the tires, I opted for Michelin CrossClimate2 all-season tires, known for their longer tread life.
Image alt text: Michelin CrossClimate2 tires installed on the VW ID4, showcasing the upgraded all-season tires chosen for their enhanced longevity and performance in various weather conditions.
Despite concerns about potential range reduction and increased tire noise reported in some reviews, I have not experienced these issues. The Michelin CrossClimate2 tires have now lasted for 35,000 miles and still have considerable tread remaining. Given they cost roughly the same as the original tires, I plan to continue using Michelin CrossClimate2 for future replacements.
Other Maintenance Expenses
Aside from tires, the only other maintenance costs have been for replacing wiper blades and the cabin air filter. The VW ID4 has proven to be remarkably low maintenance, consistent with the general reputation of EVs.
Service Visits and Reliability
I have visited the VW dealership four times for service. Two visits were for a door handle recall, one for a routine inspection, and the last for a software update and a preemptive 12V battery replacement (required for the software update, not due to battery failure).
VW ID4 Reliability Assessment
In terms of reliability, the VW ID4 has been flawless. It has never experienced any driving or charging failures, even in extreme temperatures. This level of reliability is a significant advantage and a key factor in overall ownership satisfaction.
The VW ID4 has consistently demonstrated excellent reliability, with no operational failures related to driving or charging in three years of ownership.
Software and Mobile App Issues
One of the most significant drawbacks of the VW ID4 is its software, including the infotainment system and mobile app. Both can be slow and unresponsive at times. Notably, it took two and a half years for the vehicle to receive its first software update, which required a dealership visit.
Infotainment System Performance Post-Update
The infotainment system has shown some improvements post-update but remains a weak point. While daily usability has slightly improved as the system warms up, lag and unresponsiveness are still noticeable.
Image alt text: VW ID4 infotainment screen displaying the software interface, highlighting the system’s features but also alluding to its known issues with responsiveness and lag.
The software update reorganized some menus and fixed issues like scheduled charging. A key addition was the auto hold feature, discussed later. However, the update also introduced a new annoyance: mandatory driver profile selection upon vehicle entry, requiring an extra “OK” tap each time, which becomes repetitive.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported and function well when connectivity is stable. The infotainment screen offers limited customization with preset layouts and widgets, lacking advanced features like Sentry Mode, dog mode, or video streaming.
The software provides basic navigation and media functions but lacks the sophistication and feature richness found in competing EV infotainment systems.
Mobile App Functionality
The mobile app has improved in connectivity reliability, connecting to the vehicle more consistently than before. However, connectivity issues still occur, albeit less frequently. New features include adjusting charging limits, but basic functions like remote locking/unlocking are still missing.
Image alt text: Screenshot of the VW ID4 mobile app interface, showing its basic functionalities and limited feature set, and noting an inaccuracy in model labeling.
The mobile app remains quite basic, lacking many features common in other EV apps. Interestingly, the app incorrectly labels my First Edition model as a “Pro” model.
Basic Sound System
Most VW ID4 models come with a standard 7-speaker audio system. It is adequate for general listening but lacks premium sound quality. For audiophiles, upgrading to the Pro S Plus trim with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon system is recommended for a significantly better audio experience.
The standard sound system in the VW ID4 is functional for everyday use but may not satisfy users seeking high-fidelity audio quality.
Software Summary
Despite marginal improvements, the VW ID4 software remains below par compared to competitors. I have come to accept its limitations. A planned over-the-air (OTA) software update was reportedly rolled back due to issues with First Edition models, and the future of OTA updates for older ID4s remains uncertain.
Driving Experience and Key Features
The VW ID4 offers a pleasant driving experience, particularly for those seeking a traditional SUV feel. The higher seating position provides a commanding view of the road, differentiating it from some EV crossovers that feel more sedan-like. My rear-wheel-drive ID4 achieves 0-60 mph in approximately seven seconds, with smooth and controlled acceleration.
Image alt text: VW ID4 driver’s perspective from the high seating position, illustrating the SUV-like view and comfortable driving ergonomics of this electric crossover.
Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes
The VW ID4 allows drivers to adjust regenerative braking settings, including turning it off completely if preferred. The latest software update introduced an auto hold feature, which, when engaged, maintains the vehicle at a standstill once stopped, without needing to keep pressure on the brake pedal. However, true one-pedal driving is not available; physical brakes are required to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, as it will otherwise creep forward.
Driving the VW ID4 requires using both accelerator and brake pedals, as true one-pedal driving is not supported, unlike some other EVs.
Suspension and Handling
The suspension system in the VW ID4 provides a good balance between comfort and control, avoiding excessive stiffness or bounciness. Ride quality is above average for its class, despite the vehicle’s weight and tire size. The ID4 has a tight turning radius, enhancing maneuverability in urban environments. Selectable drive modes are available, primarily affecting steering feel, which can be adjusted from lighter to more direct.
Image alt text: VW ID4 suspension components, highlighting the vehicle’s engineering for a balanced ride quality that is neither too stiff nor too soft, suitable for various driving conditions.
Visibility and Safety Systems
Visibility is generally good in the VW ID4, with reasonably sized A-pillars, large side mirrors, and decent rearward view. The backup camera provides satisfactory image quality, with a preferred wide-angle view option, though the system does not allow setting the wide-angle view as default.
The wide-angle view of the VW ID4 backup camera offers enhanced visibility compared to the standard view, improving safety and convenience during parking maneuvers.
Safety features such as automatic high beams, auto wipers, and blind spot monitoring function reliably. The ID4 also includes front and rear collision warnings and automatic emergency braking, which have proven to be valuable safety aids in various driving situations.
Driver Assistance Technology
The VW ID4 includes driver assistance features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control for highway driving. However, these systems are relatively basic and have limitations, particularly on winding roads or in construction zones.
Cabin Noise Levels
In a brief, informal cabin noise comparison at approximately 70 mph, the VW ID4 registered around 71 dB, compared to 67 dB in a Tesla Model Y. While the Model Y was quieter, the ID4’s noise level is typical for vehicles at highway speeds and not considered excessively loud.
Recommendation: Is the VW ID4 Still a Good Choice?
Knowing what I know now, I would still have purchased the VW ID4 back in 2021. However, given the current EV market landscape, the question of recommending it today is more nuanced.
Image alt text: Exterior view of the 2021 Volkswagen ID4, representing its overall appeal but also the context of a rapidly evolving electric vehicle market with increasing competition.
One of the VW ID4’s strongest selling points is its price, especially considering its eligibility for the full $7,500 federal tax credit in the US. This can bring the price of a well-equipped ID4 to under $40,000, making it one of the more affordable electric SUVs in its class.
If you are seeking an electric crossover with ample cargo space, comfortable for daily driving, featuring a conventional SUV design, and equipped with essential driver assistance and safety features, with reasonable range and charging speeds, the VW ID4 could be a suitable option.
However, if you prioritize performance, seeking rapid acceleration (e.g., 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds), or find software glitches and occasional unresponsiveness unacceptable, the VW ID4 might not be the best fit.
Ownership Conclusion: Am I Keeping My VW ID4?
Despite its drawbacks, particularly in software, my 2021 Volkswagen ID4 First Edition has earned my trust through its solid build quality and reliability. As long as this reliability continues, I am willing to overlook the software issues. Therefore, selling my VW ID4 is not something I am considering in the near future.
