Volkswagen’s foray into the electric vehicle market with the ID.4 has been met with mixed reviews, and while the 2024 model year brings some improvements, it still lags behind the competition. This review examines the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, a mid-range trim with rear-wheel drive, to see if the updates address the core issues of this electric SUV. With an MSRP of $51,815, the ID.4 aims to be a competitively priced EV, but does it deliver a complete and refined electric vehicle experience?
One area where the 2024 Id.4 shines is its driving range. Equipped with an 82 kWh battery pack, the Pro S model boasts a real-world range of approximately 250 miles. While this falls short of the EPA estimated 291 miles, it’s still a respectable figure for daily driving and slightly surpasses the range of similarly equipped Hyundai Ioniq 5 models. For those opting for all-wheel drive, a slight decrease in range can be expected. However, a significant drawback is the ID.4’s charging capability. Unlike many other EVs that can utilize 350kW fast chargers, the ID.4’s charging speed is limited, potentially leading to longer charging times at public fast-charging stations. This slower charging speed doesn’t impact home charging or slower public chargers, but it’s a noticeable disadvantage for long journeys.
Despite improvements to the central display’s user interface, the software experience in the 2024 ID.4 remains a point of frustration. While the updated UI is indeed more responsive and user-friendly initially, it still suffers from unacceptable glitches for a modern vehicle from a major manufacturer like Volkswagen. During testing, the infotainment system exhibited critical failures, with both the radio and navigation pages becoming unresponsive, displaying blank screens and refusing to load. These software inconsistencies detract significantly from the overall driving experience and raise concerns about the long-term reliability of the system. On a positive note, the gear selector operation has been refined. Furthermore, the previously criticized touch-sensitive slider controls for volume and temperature are now illuminated, making them visible at night. However, their functionality remains clumsy and imprecise, and the gloss black finish on the steering wheel buttons is prone to smudges and fingerprints, adding to the tactile annoyances.
Build quality and interior design also present significant shortcomings in the 2024 ID.4. The door latches, both interior and exterior, feel flimsy and toy-like. The exterior door handles exhibit noticeable flexing and creaking during use, raising concerns about their durability. Inside, the door release handles lack tactile feedback, contributing to a cheapened feel. The window controls are poorly designed, requiring a toggle button to switch between front and rear windows, with only two buttons for all four windows. Similarly, the mirror adjustment knob feels fragile and unreliable. Adding to the list of disappointments is the low-resolution and distorted rear-view camera, an unexpected oversight in a vehicle marketed as technologically advanced.
Opening the hood reveals the absence of a front trunk (frunk), a missed opportunity for additional storage space in an EV. The under-hood area presents a cluttered and unfinished appearance with exposed cross braces. While the rear cargo area is reasonably spacious, the lack of front storage is a notable drawback compared to other electric SUVs. The interior space utilization is also questionable. The overly large center console consumes significant space, making the front cabin feel more cramped than necessary, and its storage capacity is surprisingly limited despite its bulky size. Furthermore, the absence of a glovebox in front of the passenger seat is an unusual and inconvenient design choice. The high hood line further compromises visibility, creating a sensation of limited forward view. While the material quality within the cabin is acceptable, the poorly executed controls and design flaws detract from the overall interior experience.
In terms of driving dynamics, the 2024 ID.4 Pro S is adequate but uninspiring. The model year update includes a power increase, reducing the 0-60 mph acceleration time to a claimed six seconds for the RWD version. However, the vehicle doesn’t feel particularly quick in real-world driving. Handling is described as merely “meh,” with vague and lifeless steering typical of this vehicle class. On winding roads, the ID.4 lacks the composure and agility found in competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Overall, the driving experience is less engaging and refined compared to other EVs in the segment, with delayed responses and a lack of driver feedback. While regenerative braking is present, it’s not strong enough to enable true one-pedal driving, a feature preferred by some EV drivers.
In conclusion, while Volkswagen has attempted to address some of the criticisms leveled at the ID.4 with the 2024 updates, the vehicle still falls short of being a compelling choice in the competitive electric SUV market. The persistent software glitches, questionable build quality, inefficient interior design, and uninspired driving dynamics make it difficult to recommend the 2024 ID.4, even at its competitive price point. When considering alternatives like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, which offer a more polished and complete EV experience, the 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 remains a less desirable option unless significant incentives or discounts make it financially irresistible.
2024 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD
As-tested price: $51,815
Pros: Acceptable Range
Cons: Software Glitches, Poor Build Quality, Unrefined Interior, Uninspiring Driving Dynamics, Stronger Competitors Exist (Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6)
