EV sales continue growing in the U.S. And as EV market share increases, drivers have more and more choices. But that means new players to the EV game, and in some cases, inferior equipment compared to the competition. Who makes an all-around electric vehicle good for almost anything? VW does.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 uses peerless engineering, a sleek design, and a futuristic interior for an EV that ticks all the boxes. It’s a one-vehicle solution for every drive. Let’s go over the details.

2023 Volkswagen ID.4: exceptional engineering

When purchasing an EV, it’s essential to find one with performance, reliability, and range. The VW ID.4 has that and more.

The Volkswagen Group knows automobiles. As the manufacturer of VW, Audi, and Porsche (among others), they have decades of experience, know-how, and race wins. That shines through in cars like the VW Golf, Audi R8, and Porsche 911.

Because of that, drivers can trust the ID.4’s chassis and drivetrain.

The Volkswagen MEB platform underpins the ID.4 and many of the company’s electric vehicles. Resembling a skateboard with electric motors between the wheels, MEB allows a battery-focused design. That leads to improved range and lower prices.

Similar to the original Beetle, the ID.4’s primary motor resides in the rear. Positioned for optimal handling and traction, the AC permanent magnet synchronous unit is quiet and efficient. And with 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque on tap, it has plenty of power around town. Dual-motor versions up those figures to 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque.

And the ID.4’s electric motor(s) isn’t some run-of-the-mill powerplant. As VW notes, the motor uses “hairpin winding”, increasing copper density in the stator. That brings improved power figures and enhanced cooling. With 90 percent efficiency in nearly any situation, it’s a remarkable piece of engineering.

The VW ID.4 uses energy-dense lithium-ion batteries, hidden in the MEB chassis for improved balance. And the ID.4’s power source isn’t one large cell. Instead, it’s a series of batteries arranged in a module, with up to 12 modules forming a unit. The innovative layout improves power transmission and energy retention, by allowing greater software control over individual cells.

The ID.4 Standard’s 62 kWh battery has a range of 209 miles. The RWD Pro and Pro S trims can go 275 miles with their 82 kWh batteries. And the AWD Pro and Pro S have a 255-mile range with the same power source.

Besides that, Volkswagen’s proven the ID.4’s stout powertrain during the treacherous NORRA Mexican 1000. As AutoWeek reports, a race-prepped ID.4 (with stock powertrain) completed the arduous race with no mechanical issues. That’s an accomplishment for an exotic racecar, let alone a production-based vehicle.

2023 VW ID.4: upscale style and design

The Volkswagen ID.4 has a reasonable MSRP. But it’s anything but bargain-basement. With an appealing design inside and out, it rivals upscale brands costing twice as much.

The electric sport utility has an elegant silhouette. Up front, narrow LED headlights and a light bar give a futuristic look. Flowing lines and balanced proportions are athletic and restrained. And the tailgate’s minimal badging and narrow taillights are reminiscent of an Audi.

Inside, the ID.4 looks years ahead of conventional SUVs. Simple, functional design reaches every corner. Digital gauges and a central touchscreen are more spaceship than SUV. Ambient lighting across the dash creates a high-tech environment.

Fairly priced and versatile

As more drivers consider EV’s, they may be reluctant to make the switch. One reason could be the price. Another could be driving performance. But the VW ID.4 has a price and dynamics that should appeal to many.

For 2023, VW introduced the base-trim ID.4 Standard. At $38,995 it lowers the cost of entry to electric-only driving. For buyers on the fence, that’s just another reason to get behind the wheel.

Volkswagen offers additional trims like the Pro($43,995), S ($43,995), and Pro S($47,995). Pro and Pro S buyers can add all-wheel drive.

But enough about the specs. How does the ID.4 drive?

In their VW ID4 review, Car and Driver didn’t find it overly exciting. But it is quick. Dual-motor versions reached 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, while single-motor models took 7.6. Not bad for an SUV.

Despite its restrained road manners, the VW ID.4 did earn Car and Driver’s praise for a pleasant ride and quiet interior.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 is a complete package. Combining leading-edge technology, modern design, and a fair price, the German EV is a one-vehicle solution for everyday driving. Since it’s completed the Mexican 1000, you know it’s good for the long haul. And with oodles of style, it looks cool cruising the boulevard. The VW ID.4 is tough to pass up.