Volkswagen introduced a lower-priced version of its ID.4 electric SUV for 2023. Starting at $38,790, the new Standard trim level costs $3,735 less than the 2022 base model. As a tradeoff for the lower price, the Standard receives a smaller battery and fewer features. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV should appeal to buyers looking for a more budget-friendly electric vehicle.         

2023 Volkswagen ID.4: features and price

Edmunds reports that the 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received minor styling updates and new wheel and paint options. Inside, new trim and upholstery give the cabin a more upscale feel, and all models come standard with a new larger 12-inch touchscreen and USB-C charging.

Every ID.4 also comes equipped with an array of driver-assistance features, including VW’s park-assist and standard emergency braking that detects pedestrians and cyclists. Rounding out the revisions, two new faux-leather trim options are available with different stitching on the door panes.    

Moving up a trim level, both the Standard S and Pro packages start at $43,790. Both packages offer similar features and are virtually identical. The only real difference between the two packages is the battery. The Standard and Standard S are equipped with a 58-kWh battery pack. It’s good for an estimated 208-mile driving range but does not support public DC fast charging. The Pro trim lines have the 77.0-kWh battery pack that supports DC fast charging and has an estimated 275-mile range.   

2023 Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV: specs and performance

According to Car and Driver, the ID.4 Standard makes 201 horsepower and will do 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. It’s quicker than most gasoline-powered crossovers but somewhat lackadaisical compared to its all-electric competitors. 

Stepping up to the Pro line with the larger battery pack and dual motor, all-wheel-drive, 0 to 60 times drop to 5.4 seconds. Car and Driver noted that the ID.4 handles less sharply than some other EVs, but appreciated its quiet cabin and smooth, refined ride quality.  

Other available models 

The Volkswagen ID.4 most directly competes with the Hyundai Kona and Kia Niro in the small electric SUV category. Other vehicles in this class include the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y. Compared to the Volkswagen ID.4 range, both the Mustang Mach E and Model Y offer more estimated range and faster acceleration but are more geared towards performance and have a higher price than the ID.4. 

The ID.4 also competes with Hyundai’s new Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6, as well as the Chevrolet Volt EUV and Nissan Ariya. The ID.4 is the oldest vehicle in this group, but its revised interior and lower price help it remain competitive.  

Which one to consider? 

All models of the ID.4 are pleasant to drive, offer SUV practicality, and are well equipped. Both Car and Driver and Edmunds recommend the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro for its longer range and DC fast charging capability. The fast charging capability, larger battery, and dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain may be worth the extra $3,735. 

However, for buyers seeking an EV for less than $40,000, the Standard model offers a lot of value. Green Car Reports lists it as one of the five cheapest new EVs for 2023. So if you can live without the DC fast charging and the additional range, there is a lot to like.  

Regardless of which model you pick, the Volkswagen ID.4 is still eligible for the EV rebate under the new guidelines established by the Inflation Reduction Act. The new legislation stipulates that vans, SUVs, and pickups costing less than $80,000 or cars under $55,000 qualify if they are made in North America.

Starting this year, the Volkswagen ID.4 EV will be assembled in VW’s Chattanooga, TN, plant and will remain eligible for the up to $7,500 rebate for the foreseeable future.    

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