Volkswagen will offer a cheaper version of its ID.4 all-electric compact SUV with a smaller battery pack, a move aimed at attracting customers as inflationary pressures push prices higher.
Volkswagen of America said on Thursday it will sell three parts of the 2023 ID.4, including a base model with a smaller 62 kWh battery starting at $37,495 before the federal tax credit (and not including includes $1,295 destination fee). The base model, called standard trim, is about 6% less than the equivalent trim level of the first 2021 ID.4 model.
2023 ID.4 is currently being assembled at the automaker Chattanooga Factory, Tennessee, this has helped the car company push the price down when improving some interior and exterior features. For example, all the details of the ID.4 SUV will come standard with a 12-inch touchscreen – a size that was initially only standard in its Limited First Edition.
Image credits: Volkswagen
The price drop on the ID.4 is in contrast to what nearly every other automaker – including Volkswagen on its other models – is doing in 2022 because of supply chain constraints and pressures Inflationary forces pushed companies to raise prices.
For example, Tesla raised prices in June, with some models price increase up to $6,000. Rivian also has price increase among its two debut models, the electric R1T pickup and the R1S SUV. GM, Ford and even VW Group have raised prices across their portfolios.
Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said in the company’s second-quarter earnings report that the industry is in a “sweet spot,” as a lack of semiconductor chips and other parts has taken its toll. affected production, but high demand has allowed automakers to charge more. He warned that can be end.
Some highlights of VW ID.4
Volkswagen has added other features to the 2023 model year of its all-electric compact SUV, including new colors, an upgraded exterior, an improved center console and aluminum alloy wheels. Notably, it brought previous options as standard in the ID.4, including parking assist and a 45w USB-C charging port.
The company will offer the ID.4 in three trim levels: standard/professional, S and S Plus with the option of a 62 kWh or 82 kWh battery pack and rear- or all-wheel drive.
Volkswagen estimates that its cheapest base model – a rear-wheel drive vehicle powered by a single permanent magnet synchronous motor and a 62 kWh battery – has a range of 208 miles. Some other features and improvements to highlight on the standard model: it includes new stitching on the dashboard, fabric and faux leather seat side pads that replace the previous model’s base fabric upholstery. there.
Image credits: Volkswagen
Moving up, the ID.4 Pro rear wheel, has an 82 kWh battery and an estimated 275 miles, starting at $42,495. The all-wheel drive version, which can go about 255 miles on a single charge, starts at $46,295 (again, these prices don’t include additional destination fees or credit discounts. federal tax of $7,500).
The company says both versions are capable of DC fast charging that adds up to 170 kW.
The ID.4 S, which starts at $42,495, adds other upgrades, such as faux leather upholstery, 12-way power seats, a heated steering wheel, and a fixed panoramic glass roof with an adjustable sunshade. power, electric tailgate, high-end LED headlights and 20-inch screen aluminum alloy wheels.
Finally, the ID.4 Pro S Plus has a base price of $50,195 and the ID.4 AWD Pros S Plus is $53,995. This trim adds “unique” 20-inch wheels, power-folding door mirrors with accent lighting, accent black roof and silver roof rails, and silver accents. on the front and rear bumpers.
Importantly, all devices have “plug and charge” functionality, a feature that allows drivers to go to an Electrify America charging station and simply plug it in to charge without the hassle of using a credit card. , app or dongle to start charging. Volkswagen is still offering new owners three years of 30-minute DC fast charging sessions at Electrify America stations. Electrify America is a subsidiary of VW Group and was started as part of the automaker’s deal with the US government over the diesel emissions scandal.
The automaker’s advanced driver assistance system IQ.Drive, which requires the driver’s hand to stay on the wheel, is now standard on all models as well. When the system is activated, it will accelerate or brake to maintain a selected distance behind the vehicle in front, keep the vehicle in its lane, and recognize traffic signs. The company has also added a feature that can detect cyclists.
2023 ID.4 is expected to reach dealers in the fall.
