OpenRoad Driver Volume 17 Issue 1 Nov. 2021 | Page 54

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2022 Volkswagen ID . 4

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The Volkswagen ID . 4 has big shoes to fill . Representing the German automaker ’ s first all-electric SUV in our compact SUV segment , the ID . 4 straddles a fine line between tech , performance , and practical value .
New from the ground up , the ID . 4 is the first North American vehicle to use Volkswagen Group ’ s scalable MEB architecture . This new design is engineered specifically for electric vehicles and features a space-efficient layout that no longer has to account for internal combustion components . Not only does this approach open up more space for electric powertrain components , but weight can also be distributed more evenly for better vehicle dynamics and overall packaging .
The MEB platform also allows for more space in the interior , where occupants are greeted to a spacious cabin with a futuristic appearance . From the sustainable material choices to userconfigurable accent lighting and minimalist styling , the ID . 4 emanates a relaxing ambiance with interior space rivaling vehicles one segment above . The 64.2 cubic feet of rear cargo space also sets the ID . 4 as a class leader within its segment .
A rear-mounted electric motor comes standard on the ID . 4 that produces 201 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque . Moving from a stoplight is spontaneous but gradual , and it ’ s clear the powertrain is optimized for a relaxed drive rather than outright performance . Those wanting more power can go for the all-wheel-drive version that bumps the horsepower figure to 295 with a 0-100 km / h time of under six seconds . The range on the ID . 4 is estimated at 400 kilometres , while the maximum charge rating of 125 kW allows the 77-kWh battery pack to go from 5-80 % in around forty minutes .
There ’ s a lot of enthusiasm surrounding the ID . 4 with its stylish good looks and solid packaging . Boasting a well-equipped approach to performance , tech , and upmarket styling , Volkswagen may just have the answer for families that want a no-frills people mover with an electric powertrain .