In the early days of electric vehicles, making the switch seemed impractical to many drivers. Limited battery life, short ranges, high sticker prices, and a scarce charging network were all pain points consumers shared. According to Visual Capitalist, the average range for an EV in 2010 was a mere 79 miles.
However, as is the case with technology, the landscape for electric vehicles has significantly advanced over the past decade. Not only have vehicles themselves improved, but America’s formerly modest charging network now boasts over 130,000 charging stations. Additionally, at-home vehicle charging is far more convenient than it used to be.
Now that the average single-charge range is well over 200 miles, and we have reliable charging infrastructure, many of the EV issues from 2010 have been alleviated. Drivers who previously suffered from “range anxiety” finally have peace of mind. Couple this with the fact that gas prices are still outrageously high and consumers still feel the sting of high inflation, and it becomes clear why electric vehicles sales are at an all-time high.
Furthermore, EVs are finally affordable and may qualify for a significant tax credit per the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 passed by the Biden administration. So, which modern era electric vehicles lead the way in cost of ownership, technology, and single-charge max driving range? One EV that comes to mind is the all-new Volkswagen electric car – the award-winning 2023 VW ID.4.
A Closer Look at the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4: Background, Cost, and Performance
The original Volkswagen ID.4 made its debut in 2020 as the first electric vehicle released under the VW banner in the U.S. In true freshman phenom fashion, the ID.4 silenced any doubters who believed Volkswagen couldn’t hold its own in the hyper-competitive EV space.
It earned recognition as the 2021 World Car of the Year and was named one of Wards 10 Best User Experiences. It also garnered praise from various renowned industry publications, appearing on numerous editors’ choice lists. Most importantly, it was a certified hit with drivers who had been holding out for an easy-to-use and intuitive electric vehicle. The future-forward design, generous driving distance, and ample storage hit all the right notes with consumers.
The 2023 iteration of the Volkswagen ID.4 builds upon its predecessor’s reputation for exceptional performance, advanced technology, and affordability. With a starting MSRP of just $38,995, the VW ID.4 is one of the most competitively priced electric SUVs in its class. To make it even more enticing for cost-conscious buyers, this all-electric SUV includes three years of unlimited DC fast charging at Electrify America stations. Imagine the convenience of not having to pay for fuel or charging until 2026 and adding those costs back into your budget.
However, just because the ID.4 is affordable doesn’t mean it skimps on power or performance. The ID.4 Pro model provides a single-charge max driving range of 275 miles using an 82kWh battery. Delivering 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, the ID.4 has plenty of muscle for tackling difficult roads and hauling heavy payloads. With a max towing capacity of 2,700 pounds, this EV SUV handles heavy-duty tasks without breaking a sweat.
And of course, no SUV would be complete without ample storage space. The ID.4 offers 30.3 cubic ft. of storage, which can be expanded to 64.2 cubic ft. simply by folding down the rear seats. No camping trip or tailgating party is too big for the ID.4.
Technological Advancements, Infotainment, and Safety Features of the ID.4
While the VW ID.4 excels in terms of affordability, it doesn’t compromise on features and perks. It’s challenging to find an SUV as well-equipped as the ID.4, which explains why it remains a crowd favorite among drivers and reviewers.
As an IIHS Top Safety Pick+, the ID.4 prioritizes safety, offering a range of features and driver assistance technologies. One such feature is IQ.DRIVE, consisting of a suite of intelligent features that provide visual and audible warnings to prevent unsafe lane changes or collisions with oncoming traffic. Think of the ID.4 as your extra set of eyes diligently monitoring your surroundings.
In addition to the numerous assist features, the 2023 VW ID.4 comes outfitted with park assist plus with memory parking, area view, dynamic road sign display, park distance control, active blind spot monitor, and adaptive cruise control. Volkswagen knows that when drivers feel safe, they feel more confident behind the wheel.
The 2023 VW ID.4 also boasts numerous features that enhance the driving experience, making it more enjoyable and intuitive. ID.Light, similar to Apple’s Siri or Amazon Alexa, allows drivers to use voice commands to execute tasks and simple functions. You can say, “Find the nearest grocery store,” and ID.Light will promptly get to work, displaying the nearest one on the vehicle’s 12-inch touchscreen with directions queued up.
Other notable infotainment features include App-Connect for smartphone integration using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, a comprehensive suite of remote and connected features via the myVW app, Volkswagen Cockpit Pro, an intuitive start system called “Sit and Start,” an advanced climate control system, four driving modes (custom, comfort, sport, and eco), a panoramic fixed glass roof with an electric sunshade, and a high-fidelity stereo system.
Offered in eight different trim levels, the 2023 VW ID.4 caters to a wide range of drivers with varying budgets and vehicle needs. However, we know the item that most consumers have top of mind is max driving range, so we strongly recommend going with one of the Pro models.
Where to Find a 2023 VW ID.4 Near You
Given its popularity, finding an ID.4 to test drive shouldn’t be a challenge. Begin by searching the phrase “2023 VW ID.4 near me” or “Volkswagen dealership near me” to find the closest options. Once you’ve identified a nearby VW dealership, reach out to them and say you’d like to check out the new ID.4. They’ll gladly arrange a test drive, allowing you to experience firsthand if the ID.4 lives up to its well-deserved reputation.