The Volkswagen ID.4 is one of the cheapest models you can get, offering around 250 miles of range. For the 2023 model year, though, its base trim falls short of that accomplishment. What can you expect with the newest entry-level trim, how many miles of range will you get with it, and is it worth buying? Let’s take a look. 

What does the new trim of the 2023 VW ID.4 offer?

The entry-level model surprisingly comes with quite a bit and for less than last year’s base trim. For $40,290 (after destination fees), you get 19-inch wheels, keyless entry, and a rear-wheel drivetrain. As for the interior, it offers cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 12-inch display screen, and a digital gauge cluster, according to Edmunds. 

You’ll also get heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, wireless charging pad, and wireless capability for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Volkswagen adds Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, an automated parking system, Forward Collision Warning with autonomous emergency braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control. 

The electric motor setup in the 2023 ID.4 generates 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity for the SUV is 2,200 lbs, while the maximum payload is 959 lbs. Regarding cargo space, you can expect around 30.3 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats. 

The main drawback, however, is a smaller battery than the Pro trim and the fewer miles you get on a single charge of the battery. 

What range will you get from the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4? 

According to Volkswagen, the Standard trim only offers about 209 miles (EPA estimate) of driving on a single charge. Powering up the entry-level version is a 62 kWh battery, an SK ON unit that runs the ID.4 S trim with the same range. 

Upgrading to the Pro model will get you an 82 kWh unit, increasing the distance to 275 miles if you have the rear-wheel-drive version. For the AWD model, you will get a driving range of 255 miles instead. 

As for EPA combined city/highway driving, the model can get up to 99 MPGe. Charging up the 62 kWh battery after a long day of driving can take up to six hours if you use a Level 2 or 240-volt charger. If you have the 82 kWh battery, it will take 1.5 hours more to charge, but you will get around 107 MPGe. 

Is the Standard trim of the Volkswagen ID.4 be worth it?

The Standard trim may not be worth the money if you frequently drive long distances. But, for those who take shorter trips, it might be of value to you. The 209-mile range is enough for many drivers to run errands or get groceries around town. 

If you look at the Pro trim, you can get significantly more range, about 66 miles, to be exact. However, to upgrade to that model, you’ll pay $45,290, which is $5,000 more than the Standard trim, and it offers very few extras besides the added driving range. Last year, this version was $42,525, so this model year adds almost $3,000 to the price.  

However, the brand has made changes to increase the capability for Electrify America DC fast charging, which will help you charge your EV while on the road. It also helps that Volkswagen is backing the charging infrastructure, so more stations can become available nationwide as time passes. 

The 2023 ID.4 offers plenty for your average driver, including the new Standard trim. When it comes to driving range, the entry-level model won’t be for everyone, though. It should, however, be enough for those who want an EV to drive shorter distances and for a cheaper price than most models you find on the market.