During its yearly conference, Volkswagen India disclosed its upcoming product strategies for the remainder of the year, confirming the anticipated launch schedule for its inaugural all-electric vehicle in the country. The Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV crossover made its debut, with plans to introduce it by the conclusion of 2024 as a premium completely built unit (CBU) import. 

Here are details of the potential features and offerings of this upcoming arrival in the Indian market.

Exterior Updates

The Volkswagen ID.4 boasts a streamlined design from every angle. Absent a traditional radiator grille, the focal point is the prominent Volkswagen emblem, encircled by sleek LED headlights that accentuate the vehicle's aerodynamic profile. Dynamic touches include air scoops on both ends and a honeycomb air dam adorning the lower front bumper.

The car exhibits a sophisticated and futuristic appearance with its clean lines and sharp contours. Despite its classification as a crossover, the ID.4 showcases impressive proportions, slightly shorter and lower than the Volkswagen Tiguan SUV. Retaining rugged styling cues, such as ample cladding along the bottom, it maintains its crossover identity. Benefitting from its sleek design, the ID.4 achieves a low drag coefficient of 0.28, enhancing its range efficiency. At the rear, the ID.4 sports a sleek and upscale aesthetic, highlighted by connected LED taillamps and a tall rear bumper design. Additionally, a prominent silver skid plate elevates its SUV credentials.

Last year in India, we witnessed the debut of a sportier variant of the electric crossover, known as the ID.4 GTX.

Interior Updates

Within the Volkswagen ID.4, the futuristic ambiance persists, featuring predominantly touch or voice-operated functions. Departing from conventional instrument clusters, the focal point is a 5.3-inch digital display, known as ID. The cockpit is prominently positioned on the leather-clad steering wheel. This display provides essential information such as battery status and range.

Instead of the traditional gearshift, a considerable rocker switch adjacent to the display takes its place, while lighting controls are conveniently located to the left. Positioned in the center of the dashboard, a large touchscreen manages navigation, entertainment, and other functions, offering drivers customizable options.

Additional Features

The ID.4 is equipped with abundant comfort and convenience features synonymous with the Volkswagen brand. As a high-end model, this electric Volkswagen includes dual-zone climate control and a power tailgate featuring Easy Open & Close functionality. In terms of technology, the ID.4 exhibits a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an augmented reality heads-up display, wireless mobile charging, wireless App-Connect, and integrated connected car technology.

In terms of safety, the ID.4 comes equipped with standard features such as six airbags, a 360-degree camera, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). Additionally, a replaceable aluminum underbody panel serves to protect the battery from potential road hazards. Moreover, in the event of a significant accident, the battery is automatically deactivated for enhanced safety measures.

Power Distance & Performance

Globally, the VW ID.4 offers four distinct variants, featuring both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. While Volkswagen has yet to confirm the specific battery-pack option for the Indian market, the various powertrain possibilities include -

Kindly note that the following specifications correspond to the ID.4 model available in the UK market.

The ID.4 facilitates DC fast charging up to 135kW, capable of replenishing the battery from 10 to 80 percent in just 28 minutes. Alternatively, utilizing 11kW AC fast charging would require 8 hours for a complete recharge from empty.

Pricing and Competitors

When it debuts in India, the Volkswagen ID.4 is anticipated to carry a price tag of approximately Rs 65 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete with contenders such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and the forthcoming Skoda Enyaq.