2025 Volkswagen ID.4: The Comprehensive CNET Guide to Its Family EV Credentials

In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 emerges as a compelling contender, aiming to carve out a significant niche as a true family EV option. Positioned as the crossover sibling to the ID.3 hatch, this vehicle is more than just an electric car; it’s a statement of Volkswagen’s deep investment in electrification, designed from the ground up to meet the demands of modern households.

Volkswagen is clearly betting big on EVs, with the ID.4 leading the charge as a compact electric crossover that first debuted for 2021 and received a slew of updates for 2024, with more refinements for 2025. Now built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, it also improves its qualifications for federal tax incentives, making it an even more attractive proposition for eco-conscious drivers and tech lovers alike. This latest iteration promises meaningful upgrades that enhance performance, efficiency, and the overall driving experience.

But does it truly hit the sweet spot for families? In true CNET style, we’re here to dissect every aspect of the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4, offering an in-depth analysis of its features, performance, and user experience. We’ll explore its core engineering, real-world practicality, and how it stacks up against the ever-growing competition, providing factual information and expert analysis to help you make an informed decision about your next family electric SUV.

“Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabrio” by David Villarreal Fernández is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

1. **Core Platform & Powertrain Options**The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 is built upon Volkswagen’s dedicated-for-electric platform, known as MEB. This foundational architecture is specifically engineered for electric vehicles, allowing for optimized battery placement, interior space, and driving dynamics, rather than adapting an existing internal combustion engine platform. This commitment to a bespoke EV platform is a critical differentiator, enabling Volkswagen to maximize the inherent advantages of electric propulsion.

Customers have the flexibility to choose between rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, catering to different driving needs and preferences. The RWD setup typically offers slightly better efficiency and a traditional driving feel, while the dual-motor AWD system provides enhanced traction, especially in challenging weather conditions, and often boosts performance. This versatility ensures that the ID.4 can meet a broad range of family requirements, from daily urban commutes to weekend adventures.

Powering these configurations are various battery options, providing a spectrum of range and performance. The standard offering includes a 52kWh battery variant, while a larger 77kWh battery is available for extended range. For those seeking a more spirited drive, there’s also the performance-oriented ID.4 GTX, which boasts a 79kWh battery and promises a more dynamic experience. While Volkswagen hints at a “GTI or R for the electric age” with the GTX, the driving experience will ultimately determine if it lives up to such a legacy.

It’s also worth noting the extensive family of vehicles that share this MEB platform within the VW Group megacorp. The ID.4 is closely related to vehicles like the ID.5 (essentially an ID.4 with a coupe roofline), the Skoda Enyaq (and its coupe sibling), and the Audi Q4 e-tron (and its Sportback sibling). This commonality underscores the robustness and scalability of the MEB platform, but also means the ID.4 faces stiff internal competition from its own cousins, each offering a slightly different take on the same core engineering.

Car Model Information: 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S
Name: Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5
Caption: 2020 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
ModelCode: E21 (ID.4),E39 (ID.5)
Production: 2020–present
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Klaus Zyciora
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Volkswagen Group MEB platform
Related: Volkswagen ID.3,Volkswagen ID.Buzz,Volkswagen ID.6,Škoda Enyaq,Audi Q4 e-tron,Cupra Tavascan,Ford Explorer EV,Ford Capri EV
Layout: Rear-motor, rear-wheel-drive
Motor: APP 550,Brushless DC electric motor
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
ElectricRange: 77-82 kWh, since 2024:,{{convert,263-291,mi,km,0,abbr=on
Charging: ubl
Wheelbase: 2765 mm
Abbr: on (ID.5)
Length: 4584 mm
Width: 1852 mm
Height: 1636 mm
Weight: convert
Powerout: Convert
ModelYears: 2021–present
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 German-language sources (de)
Summary: The Volkswagen ID.4 and Volkswagen ID.5 are battery electric compact crossover SUVs produced by Volkswagen. Based on the MEB platform, the ID.4 is the second model of the Volkswagen ID. series. The production version of the ID.4 debuted in September 2020 as the first fully-electric crossover SUV under the Volkswagen brand, while the coupe-shaped variant of the ID.4 (akin to the Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron) is marketed as the Volkswagen ID.5 and was presented in November 2021. The ID.4 is positioned by Volkswagen as a high-volume, mass-market electric vehicle — a car for “the millions, not the millionaires,” as the company claimed in its advertising. It was delivered to European customers from late 2020, and the first quarter of 2021 for the North American market. The ID.4 was elected World Car of the Year 2021 over runner-ups Honda e and Toyota Yaris. The vehicle was updated for model year 2024 to include a more powerful and efficient APP 550 electric motor with increased range, as well as heavily revised software and infotainment hardware.

Get more information about: Volkswagen ID.4

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2. **Real-World Range and Efficiency**When considering an EV for family use, range and charging efficiency are paramount concerns. The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 offers a competitive spectrum of driving ranges, tailored to different battery configurations. Entry-level models, equipped with the smaller 62-kWh battery pack, are rated by the EPA to deliver slightly more than 200 miles of driving range on a single charge. This provides adequate range for many daily commutes and local family errands.

Stepping up to the mid-range models with the larger 82-kWh battery significantly extends the ID.4’s capabilities. With this pack and rear-wheel drive, the ID.4 boasts about 290 miles of EPA-estimated driving range. Adding the dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration with the 82-kWh battery slightly reduces the range to approximately 260 miles, a common trade-off for enhanced traction and performance. The range-topping all-wheel drive GTX claims up to 321 miles, showcasing the potential for long-distance travel.

However, it’s crucial to consider the competitive landscape when evaluating the ID.4’s range. The context information highlights a notable point: “The entry-level Skoda Enyaq supplies more range across the board… and is cheaper. Awkward.” This comparison underscores that while the ID.4’s range is strong, it’s not necessarily class-leading in all configurations, especially against its closely related stablemate. Depending on the trim, the 2025 ID.4 can be expected to deliver anywhere from 275 to 310 miles on a single charge in real-world driving conditions.

Beyond the stated range figures, the practical economics of EV ownership are a major draw for families. One user shared a compelling observation regarding operating costs, noting, “My average costs for a so called full charge from 20% to 90% is just over $4.00, a far cry from an equivalent charge for the gas of over $70.00.” This significant cost saving on fuel provides a powerful argument for the ID.4 as an economical family vehicle, demonstrating how electric driving can positively impact a household budget over time.

3. **Driving Dynamics and Ride Comfort**For a family SUV, the balance between a comfortable ride and engaging driving dynamics is key. The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 generally presents itself as a “comfortable, efficient and uncomplicated family cruiser.” Its smooth, silent driving experience is designed to demand little of the driver, making it an ideal companion for daily commutes and long journeys where relaxation is prioritized over raw excitement. This emphasis on ease of use contributes significantly to its appeal as a family vehicle, reducing driver fatigue.

While its straightforward nature is a plus for many, the ID.4 is also described as “rather bland to drive” for those with a keen interest in driving enjoyment. Even the GTX performance version, despite its additional power, “doesn’t add much to the picture” in terms of engaging driving dynamics. This suggests that while the ID.4 excels in comfort and usability, it might not satisfy enthusiasts looking for a more spirited or communicative driving experience, which is a common characteristic for many family-focused crossovers.

However, this doesn’t mean the ID.4 is devoid of positive driving attributes. It offers “agile handling that makes it easy to maneuver,” which is highly beneficial in urban environments and for parking. Yet, there are some areas for improvement, such as its “too-touchy accelerator response” and the “lack of a one-pedal drive mode is disappointing.” These minor quirks, while not deal-breakers, highlight areas where the user interface could be refined for an even smoother experience.

User testimonials often provide valuable real-world insights, and one driver, with extensive experience across numerous premium vehicles, describes the ID.4’s ride quality as “near sumptuous as it soaks up road defects very nicely indeed.” They further elaborate that it “still handles unlike ANY SUV is capable of without leaning into turns, so it’s a real fun driving experience.” This perspective suggests that while professional reviewers might find it bland, everyday drivers appreciate its refined road manners and surprisingly capable handling for an SUV. The same user also explicitly stated that after test driving a Mach E Ford and a Tesla, they “felt the ride quality was definitely better with the VW,” underscoring the ID.4’s strengths in ride comfort.

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4. **Interior Design, Space, and Practicality**As a family EV, the interior space and practicality of the ID.4 are critical considerations. Volkswagen has designed the ID.4 to feel significantly larger on the inside than its exterior dimensions might suggest, drawing a comparison to a “Tiguan outside but bigger inside.” While its wheelbase is shared with the more compact ID.3, the ID.4’s more upright seating position creates “a sense of more legroom,” enhancing passenger comfort, particularly in the rear. Overall, it is about 300mm longer than the ID.3, contributing to a much larger boot.

The cabin adheres to the “minimalist aesthetic of many EVs,” which means a clean, uncluttered look. However, this minimalist approach also means a “conspicuous lack of buttons and switches,” which might be a notable change for drivers transitioning from traditional vehicles like a Tiguan. Despite the minimalist design, the ID.4 excels in practical family attributes, offering a “roomy cabin with loads of clever storage spaces,” essential for stowing everything from toys to groceries.

Cargo capacity is a strong suit for the ID.4, with the boot measuring a generous 543 litres. This capacity is larger than the Kia EV6 (490 litres) and almost identical to the Renault Scenic (545 litres), making it highly competitive within its segment. While it’s “positively outclassed by the Tesla Model Y, which boasts 854 litres with all the seats up,” the ID.4’s boot still provides ample space for most family needs. The absence of a “frunk,” or front trunk, is also noted, with Volkswagen suggesting that its design priorities focused on “superior safety both for the passengers as well as a person that might be hit by it,” rather than adding front storage which could compromise front-end collision safety.

The overall impression of space is a significant plus. The “fundamental ergonomics are excellent,” and passengers will find “generous rear leg room,” akin to what one might experience in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It’s clear that “Volkswagen has brought all its packaging know-how to bear with this first electric SUV,” creating “an impression of spaciousness” that contributes to a comfortable and genuinely practical experience for all occupants. This emphasis on interior volume and clever storage makes the ID.4 a well-thought-out choice for families.

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5. **Infotainment and User Interface Experience**Modern family vehicles rely heavily on their infotainment and user interface systems, and the 2025 ID.4 presents a mixed bag in this regard. The vehicle adopts an “all-touch interface of the ID.3, which definitely isn’t a good thing,” according to one assessment. This design choice, characterized by a “conspicuous lack of buttons and switches,” can be jarring for those accustomed to physical controls, particularly coming from a traditional SUV like a Tiguan. The “touchy-slidey steering wheel buttons and main dash controls (which do at least light up now) aren’t getting any less infuriating,” and the “haptic touchpads for controlling the music, display and cruise control” are described as “slow and frustrating to use and far too easy to press by accident.”

Historically, Volkswagen’s infotainment systems faced criticism for being “slow, buggy and crashed repeatedly.” However, the brand “seems to have overcome some of these shortcomings with the latest version of its ID software.” While the system in the ID.4 “still isn’t as intuitive and user-friendly as it could be, it’s a big improvement.” For 2025, a notable update is that “all models now equipped with 12.9-inch touchscreen,” which is not much larger than the previous 12.0-inch unit, but “slightly more user-friendly thanks to backlit sliders for volume and temperature controls,” addressing a prior common complaint.

Standard technology includes a small 5.3-inch gauge cluster display behind the steering wheel, providing essential driver information without distraction. The central infotainment system comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration, along with a wireless charging pad. Both rows of seats also have access to USB-C ports, catering to the charging needs of all occupants. High-end models further elevate the audio experience with a nine-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

An interesting feature is the “ID Light concept,” where the dashboard “blinks in different colours and patterns to relay everything from sat-nav directions to charging status to incoming calls.” While “moderately useful at times,” it’s also noted as “mostly a bit distracting.” Despite some lingering interface challenges, one user offered a positive counterpoint, stating they “felt the Infotainment system to be a joy as well. The sound is a definite step beyond the previous 2020 Tiguan SEL I owned. All the features accessible from the screen is very extensive to say the least and easy to navigate,” indicating that for some, the system is intuitive enough to be enjoyable.

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6. **Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Safety**Safety is non-negotiable for a family vehicle, and the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 makes a strong case with its comprehensive suite of safety features and solid ratings. In its most recent round of testing, the 2024 ID.4 earned a “five-star overall rating from NHTSA,” which is the highest possible safety score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This demonstrates a high level of crashworthiness and occupant protection across various impact scenarios.

Further reinforcing its safety credentials, the 2024 ID.4 received the “2024 Top Safety Pick designation from IIHS,” which is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s second-best accolade. This recognition signifies strong performance in crash tests and the effectiveness of its headlight systems and front crash prevention technologies. Such endorsements from leading safety organizations provide families with significant peace of mind regarding the ID.4’s protective capabilities.

The ID.4 comes equipped with Volkswagen’s IQ Drive suite of driver assist and active safety features as standard. This integrated package includes critical technologies such as front automatic emergency braking, which can help prevent or mitigate frontal collisions, and rear cross-traffic alert, a valuable aid when backing out of parking spaces. Blind-spot monitoring helps detect vehicles in hard-to-see areas, while lane keep assist actively helps the driver stay within their lane. Adaptive cruise control is also part of the suite, maintaining a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys.

Beyond the standard IQ Drive features, additional safety and convenience technologies are available. These include front and rear parking sensors, which assist with maneuvering in tight spots, and automatic high-beams, which intelligently switch between high and low beams based on traffic and lighting conditions. For 2025, the ID.4 boasts enhanced ADAS capabilities, including more sophisticated adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance for even more precise lane keeping, traffic sign recognition, and a fully automated parking assist system, further reducing the stress of driving and parking in busy environments.

Volkswagen’s design ethos also emphasizes passive safety. The vehicle’s front end is “carefully designed… to allow for superior safety both for the passengers as well as a person that might be hit by it.” This consideration for pedestrian safety, alongside robust occupant protection, highlights a holistic approach to ensuring the well-being of everyone on and around the road. This comprehensive safety package underscores the ID.4’s suitability as a secure family EV option, providing robust protection and assistance technologies.”

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7. **Significant 2025 Exterior Updates**The 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 enters the market not just as an iteration, but as a refined update, promising meaningful upgrades that extend beyond mere aesthetics. Volkswagen has meticulously sharpened the exterior, signaling a commitment to both modern design and improved functionality for this family-focused electric SUV.

Key among these enhancements are the redesigned LED headlights and a sleeker front fascia. These changes contribute to a more contemporary and aerodynamic profile, which is crucial for maximizing efficiency in an electric vehicle. The streamlined body aims for improved aerodynamics, reducing drag and potentially extending real-world driving range.

Drivers will also notice new alloy wheel designs, offering a fresh look for the ID.4. Furthermore, the color palette has been updated to include bolder, richer hues, providing more options for families who desire their EV to make a visual statement and stand out from the crowd.

These exterior modifications are more than just cosmetic tweaks. They are designed to enhance the vehicle’s overall performance, efficiency, and the driving experience, reflecting Volkswagen’s continuous effort to evolve the ID.4 into a more compelling family EV option.

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8. **Significant 2025 Interior Updates**Stepping inside the 2025 ID.4, occupants are greeted with an interior that balances a minimalist aesthetic with premium touches, reflecting Volkswagen’s dedication to user-centric design. The cabin aims to feel both high-tech and inherently user-friendly, catering to the practical needs of families.

A notable update is the refreshed dashboard, which now features haptic-touch sliders. While Volkswagen’s previous all-touch interface received criticism, this refinement is part of the brand’s ongoing effort to improve the usability of its digital cockpit. The improved 12.9-inch touchscreen, now standard, also contributes to a more user-friendly interface with backlit sliders for volume and temperature controls.

Comfort is paramount in a family vehicle, and the 2025 ID.4 addresses this with improved seat cushioning and sustainable upholstery. The context mentions that the original seats were already considered “superbly comfortable” by some users, suggesting these enhancements further elevate the in-cabin experience for all occupants.

Practicality remains a strong suit, with larger storage compartments and versatile cargo space, essential for managing family essentials on the go. Additionally, the ambient lighting now offers 30-color customization, allowing drivers and passengers to personalize the cabin’s atmosphere and enhance the overall driving environment.

Despite its high-tech vibe and advanced features, the underlying goal of these interior updates is to ensure the cabin remains user-friendly and genuinely family-focused. Volkswagen’s packaging know-how continues to create an impression of spaciousness, making the ID.4 a practical choice for modern households.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Volkswagen Model: ID.4
Price: $19,199 Mileage: 48,341 mi.

Ultimately, if your family is in the market for a balanced, stylish, and genuinely sustainable electric SUV that offers a comfortable, uncomplicated driving experience without breaking the bank, the 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 absolutely deserves your attention. Its blend of practicality, refined technology, and Volkswagen’s commitment to safety and sustainability position it as a strong contender for your next family ride.