The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD enters a competitive electric SUV market, and while it boasts a significant federal tax credit, questions arise about whether that’s its only compelling feature. Having spent a week testing this all-electric vehicle, here’s a detailed look at what it offers and where it falls short.
Volkswagen ID.4 review showcasing the vehicle’s design and branding.
The Upsides of the 2023 ID.4 Pro S
Despite some criticisms, the 2023 ID.4 Pro S AWD does have its merits. The Pro S trim with all-wheel drive significantly upgrades the performance compared to the base model. With 295 horsepower, it offers a noticeable increase from the standard 201 horsepower. This dual-motor setup provides confident acceleration and enhanced traction, especially beneficial in adverse weather conditions. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in a respectable 5.5 seconds, making it adequately quick for daily driving. While the acceleration does taper off at higher speeds, typical for many EVs in its class, it still outpaces competitors like the Toyota bZ4X in terms of outright performance.
Exterior view of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, highlighting its SUV form factor.
The interior of the 2023 VW ID.4 is commendably spacious, comfortably accommodating passengers and smaller families. The ride quality is generally comfortable and quiet, especially during highway cruising. Technologically, this model is equipped with sought-after features, and unlike previous iterations, the infotainment system in this test vehicle operated smoothly without glitches or lockups. A driver-centric feature is the adjustable regenerative braking, offering options from zero regeneration to near one-pedal driving, catering to different driving preferences.
Adding to its appeal is the substantial $7,500 federal tax credit for which the 2023 ID.4 qualifies due to its US assembly. This incentive significantly reduces the effective purchase price, making it a more financially attractive option compared to some foreign-made rivals that no longer qualify for the same credit.
The 82 kWh battery pack is standard for the segment. During the test week, which involved mixed driving conditions in Northern California winter, the efficiency averaged around 3 miles per kWh. This translates to a theoretical range of approximately 246 miles. While seemingly adequate for daily commutes, it’s crucial to note this was achieved with conservative driving habits, minimal climate control use (primarily seat and steering wheel heaters), and no speeds exceeding 70 mph. Real-world range, especially in colder climates or with more typical driving habits including climate control, is likely to be lower, potentially falling in the 190-210 mile range during winter.
Drawbacks and Disappointments of the 2023 ID.4
Despite the positives, the 2023 ID.4 is not without its flaws, many of which detract from the overall driving and ownership experience. One immediately noticeable issue is the gimmicky door handles. Their lack of mechanical feedback and flimsy feel make them seem toy-like. The electronic mechanism, instead of simplifying operation, introduces potential problems, particularly on inclines where doors can become stuck half-closed.
Interior shot of the 2023 VW ID.4, focusing on the dashboard and control layout.
Ergonomics within the 2023 Id4 cabin also present challenges. The absence of a physical volume knob, replaced by a touch-sensitive slider, is a significant usability downgrade. Climate controls are mostly integrated into the touchscreen interface, with physical buttons for defrost awkwardly positioned to the left of the steering wheel, where headlight controls typically reside, rather than in a more central and accessible location.
Forward visibility is compromised by a high dashboard and hood line, coupled with intrusive A-pillars that create blind spots. Despite lacking a traditional combustion engine, the front of the vehicle offers no additional storage space. The center console design is another perplexing element, featuring a bulbous, oversized structure that offers no practical storage benefit and consumes cabin space unnecessarily.
Rear exterior angle of the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4, showing taillights and rear design.
While the infotainment system’s operational smoothness has improved, navigating vehicle settings remains cumbersome. For instance, deactivating the auto-hold feature is buried deep within the ‘brakes’ submenu, rather than being easily accessible or assigned a physical button like in many other vehicles. Curiously, it’s also not accessible through the ‘assist’ button, which controls other safety systems.
The PRND rocker switch, seemingly borrowed from the BMW i3, feels out of place and uninspired. More fundamentally, the 2023 ID.4 delivers a rather unexciting driving experience. While not slow, it rarely feels quick and lacks the engaging driving dynamics found in competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 AWD. The ride quality can be choppy on uneven surfaces, and the steering exhibits nervousness at higher speeds, feeling overly sensitive and lacking linear response. Although the AWD system provides adequate grip, the overall driving experience is described as wooden and uninspiring, lacking any standout characteristics beyond basic functionality.
Close-up image highlighting the center console and storage area design of the ID.4.
Charging speeds are another area where the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 lags behind. It is capped at 150 kW peak charging on a Level 3 DC fast charger. While this allows for reasonably fast charging, several rivals now offer 350 kW charging capability, significantly reducing charging times at compatible charging stations. This difference in charging speed could be a crucial factor for buyers prioritizing convenience and rapid refueling on long journeys.
Another interior perspective of the 2023 ID.4 Pro S, showcasing the steering wheel and digital cockpit.
Price, Tax Credit, and Competition
The primary selling point for the 2023 ID.4 currently is the $7,500 federal tax credit, making it considerably more affordable than many competitors. This price reduction brings the net cost down to around $45,000, undercutting popular alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. For buyers prioritizing cost savings, this tax credit might be the most compelling reason to consider the ID.4. However, it raises the question of whether a tax credit should be the sole determinant in choosing a vehicle, especially when compared to similarly priced and highly efficient hybrid SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 or Venza, which offer excellent fuel economy, all-wheel drive, and no charging anxieties at around $40,000.
Interior ambiance of the Volkswagen ID.4, highlighting seat comfort and cabin spaciousness.
When considering EVs in this segment, the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mach-E also warrant consideration, both being eligible for tax credits. The Model Y, despite divisive aesthetics, offers impressive performance and packaging. The Mach-E presents a stylish alternative and is also tax credit eligible. These competitors, along with the Ioniq 5 and EV6 (though potentially less tax-advantaged now), offer more compelling packages in terms of driving dynamics, technology, and overall desirability, making the value proposition of the 2023 ID4 heavily reliant on the tax incentive.
Conclusion: A “Meh” EV Propped Up by Tax Credits?
The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S AWD is a vehicle of compromises. It’s not overtly bad, but it struggles to stand out in a rapidly evolving EV market. While it offers a comfortable interior, decent performance in the Pro S trim, and the crucial tax credit, it is overshadowed by ergonomic quirks, an uninspiring driving experience, and slower charging speeds compared to newer rivals. It feels like a missed opportunity for Volkswagen to make a stronger statement in the electric vehicle space.
In a market brimming with exciting and innovative EVs, the 2023 ID.4 risks feeling like old technology. While it surpasses the Toyota bZ4X, which sets a low bar for excitement, buyers looking for a more engaging and forward-thinking electric SUV might find better options elsewhere. Ultimately, the 2023 ID.4’s appeal heavily hinges on whether the $7,500 tax credit is compelling enough to overlook its shortcomings and settle for a merely adequate electric vehicle.
2023 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S
As-tested price: $52,985
Pros: Tax credit eligibility.
Cons: Average performance, uninspired driving experience, ergonomic issues, slower charging speeds, generally dull compared to competitors.
Vertical shot of the Volkswagen ID.4, emphasizing its front profile and headlight design.
Volkswagen ID.4 AWD Pro S review image, possibly showcasing the vehicle in motion or a detail.
Interior view of the 2023 VW ID.4, possibly highlighting the rear seating or overall cabin layout.
Volkswagen ID.4 interior review image, potentially focusing on material quality or design details.
2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S interior shot, possibly showing specific trim features or technology.
Image related to the 2023 ID.4, contextually placed and relevant to the vehicle review.
Another image of the ID.4, adding visual appeal and supporting the article content.
