Overview
The Volkswagen ID.4 is the SUV sibling of the ID.3, offering more space and practicality for families. It shares the MEB platform and many characteristics with its hatchback cousin.
As a used buy, the ID.4 offers strong practicality and decent range in a popular SUV body style. The same software caveats apply — later cars are better.
Model variants:
| Version | Battery | Range (WLTP) | Drive | 0-62mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure | 52kWh | 208 miles | RWD | 10.9s |
| Pro | 77kWh | 314 miles | RWD | 8.5s |
| Pro S | 77kWh | 323 miles | RWD | 8.5s |
| GTX | 77kWh / 82kWh | 300 miles | AWD | 5.4-6.2s |
Key changes:
| Year | Changes |
|---|---|
| 2021 | UK launch |
| 2022 | GTX AWD version, software updates |
| 2023 | 82kWh battery for GTX, minor updates |
The GTX adds all-wheel drive and significantly more power, but the Pro S offers the best balance of range and value for most buyers.
Performance & Drive
In town
The ID.4 is easy to drive despite its size. The turning circle is good, visibility is acceptable (though the thick rear pillars obstruct), and the elevated driving position helps with confidence.
Urban driving is effortless thanks to the instant torque and smooth power delivery.
On the motorway
Comfortable and quiet at cruising speeds. The taller body catches some wind, but refinement is good overall. The 77kWh battery provides adequate range for most motorway journeys.
The GTX's AWD adds security in poor weather, though the range penalty is noticeable.
On a twisty road
The ID.4 is not sporty. Body roll is more pronounced than in the ID.3, and the higher centre of gravity limits agility. It's perfectly competent for normal driving but won't excite enthusiasts.
The GTX adds power but doesn't transform the handling — it's still an SUV first and foremost.
Space & Practicality
Front seats
Generous front space with comfortable seats. The minimalist dashboard is similar to the ID.3, with the same love-it-or-hate-it touch controls.
Rear seats
Excellent rear space — the ID.4's key strength. Three adults can sit comfortably, with good legroom and headroom. It's genuinely family-suitable.
| Measurement | Space |
|---|---|
| Rear legroom | Excellent |
| Rear headroom | Excellent |
| Rear width | 3 adults comfortable |
Boot space
At 543 litres, the boot is practical for family use. The floor is slightly high, but the overall space is usable. Rear seats fold for larger items.
| Configuration | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Seats up | 543 litres |
| Seats folded | ~1,575 litres |
The ID.4 is a genuine family SUV with proper family space.
Interior & Tech
Interior quality
Same story as the ID.3 — functional but not premium. The materials feel below what VW traditionally offered. Piano black scratches, some plastics feel cheap.
The 2023 facelift (outside this review scope) improved things, but pre-facelift cars remain a mixed bag.
Infotainment
The 12" touchscreen is the same system as the ID.3. Same strengths (wireless CarPlay/Android Auto), same weaknesses (occasional bugs, frustrating interface).
Early cars suffered from software issues; later cars are more stable.
Equipment
Higher-spec models (Pro S, GTX) come well-equipped:
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Heated seats | Standard (most) |
| Panoramic roof | Standard (Pro S) |
| Matrix LED headlights | Higher trims |
| Augmented reality HUD | Higher trims |
| Electric tailgate | Standard (most) |
Range & Charging
Real-world range
| Version | WLTP | Real-world (summer) | Real-world (winter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pure (52kWh) | 208 miles | 160-180 miles | 120-150 miles |
| Pro/Pro S (77kWh) | 314-323 miles | 240-270 miles | 180-220 miles |
| GTX (77/82kWh) | 300 miles | 220-250 miles | 170-200 miles |
The SUV body affects efficiency — expect 3.2-3.8 miles per kWh compared to 3.5-4.0 in the ID.3.
Charging
| Version | Max DC Speed | 10-80% Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pure | 110kW | ~30 mins |
| Pro/Pro S | 135kW | ~35 mins |
| GTX | 175kW | ~30 mins |
Charging is competitive for the class. The flat charging curve is a strength.
Reliability & Common Problems
Overall reliability
The ID.4 shares the ID.3's reliability profile — software concerns early on, mechanical robustness underneath.
Common issues
| Issue | Severity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Software bugs | Medium | Improved with updates |
| 12V battery | Medium | VW group-wide issue |
| Rear visibility | Design | Not a fault, but a limitation |
| Touch controls | Frustration | By design |
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Vehicle | 3 years / 60,000 miles |
| Battery | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
What to Look For When Buying
Before viewing
- Check build date — Later (2022+) preferred
- Verify battery size — 52kWh, 77kWh, or 82kWh
- Confirm software version — Ask about updates
- Service history — VW dealer preferred
During inspection
Same checks as ID.3: infotainment responsiveness, touch controls, panel gaps, interior condition. Additionally, check the electric tailgate and panoramic roof (if fitted) for proper operation.
Test drive focus
- Rear visibility in parking situations
- Regen braking modes
- Software stability over the drive duration
Used Price Guide
Current market prices (2026)
| Year | Version | Mileage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Pro | 30-50,000 | £24,000 - £30,000 |
| 2021 | Pro S | 30-50,000 | £28,000 - £35,000 |
| 2022 | Pro S | 20-40,000 | £32,000 - £40,000 |
| 2022 | GTX | 20-40,000 | £38,000 - £48,000 |
| 2023 | Pro S | 10-30,000 | £36,000 - £45,000 |
Best value
A 2022 Pro S with 20,000-40,000 miles offers the best balance — big battery, good spec, improved software.
The Verdict
The bottom line
The Volkswagen ID.4 (2021-2023) is a practical, spacious electric family SUV. It excels at the things families need: space, comfort, and usability.
Like the ID.3, software and interior quality concerns apply. Buy a later car with update history, and accept the touch-control compromises.
For families wanting a mainstream electric SUV from a trusted brand, the ID.4 delivers.
| Rating | Score |
|---|---|
| Value for money | 7/10 |
| Real-world range | 8/10 (77kWh) |
| Charging convenience | 8/10 |
| Reliability | 7/10 |
| Practicality | 9/10 |
| Overall | 7/10 |
