First Impressions: Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Performance

In a world where we see more and more electric vehicles come to the front, and the introduction of new energy models to the local market increase by two fold (see what we did there?), it only makes sense for Volkswagen to take a crack at this EV thing for the third time. As a refresher, Volkswagen first introduced the electric e-Golf in Mzansi in 2021, followed by the ID.3 in 2022 as part of their media and market test programmes. The ID.4 Pro Performance is no exeption, it too will form part of a slightly larger media and market feedback programme before the model will go on sale in 2026. We were one of the firsts to join VW for a first impressions drive.

What you see, is what you get

At first look, the ID.4 is reminiscent of a few models in the Volkswagen stable already. It seems to be a mash-up between the Taigo, Tiguan and Polo. But its not, despite being only 5-inches shorter than the Tiguan, this model is based on Volkswagen’s modular electric drive (MEB) platform, which allows for a very large exterior and interior.

Up front, it sports VW’s signature lightbar and a larger than usual badge. The nose is as blunt as EV’s can get, but the confident stance (thanks to the 19-inch black diamond-turned Hamar alloy wheels) makes up for all of that. The side profile is quite friendly to the eye, but things get a bit weird as soon as the eye hits the C-pillar. This is where the curves get raised, more than they should, but all of this assists in securing a larger bootspace for all your cargo. The rear is neat, and the addition of a lightbar makes it quite a treat to admire from behind.

Step inside the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Performance and you’re greeted by the 10-inch Discover Pro display in the centre for all your infotainment which supports wired Apple Carplay and Android Auto. VW says the model to go on sale in 2026 will have wireless support. All AC controls are backed into the display, with touch feedback shorts positioned right underneath. Move your eyes a bit lower and you’ll find plenty of space for your cups, storage for all your devices, a wireless charger, USB-C ports and plenty more storage space.

In front of the driver is a 5.3-inch ID Intelligence information display for all the vital instrumentals. Its quite tiny at first, but after a short while you get used to it. It is operated via the standard multifunction steering wheel, whose buttons provide sensory feedback. The rocker switch to the right of the display activates the drive modes and the parking lock.

Technicalities

The ID.4 Pro Performance has 150 kW and 310 Nm torque which is good for 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds. The battery capacity is 77 kWh which permits maximum a range of up to 531 kilometres, which it proved for our first impressions drive.

What do I really think of it?

I like the Volkswagen ID.4. I really do. I feel like its the hero product that Volkswagen South Africa needs to successfully launch an EV in Mzansi. It has just the right of amount of range to even cater for an out of Gauteng road trip. The technology is on par and interior space is quite ample. The power is quite instant, and drive is smooth, just how I expect an electric vehicle from Volkswagen to be. Like I mentioend earlier it reminds me of the many other models in VW’s garage, and I think that’s a brilliant thing given the unease of many ICE vehicle drivers have when they have to switch to an electric vehicle.

When all is said and done, I can’t help but get stuck on the latency of VW’s arrival to the EV market – and its quite a frustrating one.

Why only launch in 2026? That doesn’t make sense

During the media test drive events held this past week, Volkswagen South Africa’s representatives confirmed that the electrc ID.4 will only go on sale in 2026. At first that may seem rather strange given the positive feedback shared from the test and pilot programmes of the e-Golf, ID.3 and ID.Buzz as well as general market perception and uptake of electric vehicles of late. Mind you, over 900 fully electric vehicles were sold in 2023 in South Africa alone.

According to VW, there’s method to the madness. Between now and the earmarked 2026 launch date there’s still a lot of heavylifting to be done. Aside from thorough market projections and planning, Volkswagen is banking on government to implement incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, which will make their pricing more attractive to the consumer. Infrustructre is also a big deal for Volkswagen. In as much as their sister brand, Audi, has already laid the foundation for a network of chargers, they too are planning to contribute the network by installing their own chargers and establishing partnerships with other manufactureres and suppliers to ensure consumers are well covered.

Lastly, further hamolgation and specifications of the vehicle has to be relevant the local landscape, one such example was that the vehicles would need to be fitted with an engine underplate.

Post Views: 0

#ID.4 #Volkswagen #Volkswagen ID

Posted By

Papi Mabele

Papi Mabele has a marketing background, he is a digital marketing expert with extensive experience in launching and building global brands in the emerging markets. Papi is also an avid tech writer, enthusiast and all round tech junkie. As a freelance writer and analyst he has been numerously published in Popular Mechanics (SA), GQ South Africa, Premier Magazine, Driven Magazine, Bloem News, Courant, The Weekly, Enthooze Magazine and PiE magazine amongst others.