VW introduces iD4 Pro AWD as the least-expensive AWD EV in the US

Volkswagen USA took the wraps off of the iD4 EV folks have wanted, the iD4 Pro AWD (you can also add an S in there, for you know, Sport if you check the right option box). The iD4 Pro AWD has a motor on each axle (the standard iD4 is RWD only) which ups the power to 295 hp with a 0 to 60 that's under 6 seconds. (Pics on this page are of the iD4 Pro S non AWD.) Range is 249 miles for the iD4 Pro AWD and about 240 miles for the S version. Yes bigger tires reduce range. Prices will start at just over $40k not counting any eligible rebates, etc. While it hasn't been announced for the US market, these stats are very similar to the iD4 GTX which is sort of the GTI of iD4s. The GTX version would add suspension tuning and blacked out trim, wheels, sports seats (?), etc. to the mix so here's hopin'. (Click on the link for my GTX post.) All in all, this is good news for EV buyers. More choice and a better (and more expensive) product. Remember that VW is marketing the iD4 to regular SUV/crossover buyers, you know like the folks that buy RAV4s. But this new model is a stronger competitor for EV buyers. If you can find one. I went with a friend to a VW dealer recently and the salesperson admitted that dealers aren't excited to sell EVs cuz they really make their money in the service bay (EVs don't require as much service as do ICE vehicles). Think about that. For more information, click on "read more" to jump to the media release and additional pics.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics

Volkswagen iD4 GTX - the GTI of VW EVs

Let's start off with the fact that the iD4 is an attractive EV but one that's down on performance compared to it's main EV competitors. As such, VW has marketed the iD4 EV as competition for ICE cars from competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V where the iD4 more easily competes. EV watchers and buyers take notice. If you want an iD4, the new GTX version is the one you want. The iD4 GTX has all-wheel drive due to it's dual motors (one on each axle) which almost doubles the cars available horsepower to just under 300 hp. The GTX model gets more expressive looks with black anthracite trim and a black roof, larger wheels and special interior fitments.

“The full torque of the electric powertrain is immediately available and you can feel the excellent vehicle handling in every bend,” says Thomas Ulbrich, member of the Board of Management for Development. “What’s more, the innovative operating and safety concept is just as intelligent as the drive train! For example, the driver is supported by the unique augmented reality head-up display and comprehensive assist systems.” What scares me about this quote, is that VW hasn't brought the intelligent head-up display to the US, not to mention the iD3 (a Golf-sized EV), Rumor has it that dealers didn't want these items in the US. Sounds like VW needs better dealers here. Will we get the iD4 GTX? Only time will tell. IF you want one, let VW know. Keep your fingers crossed. More to come. Check out the video after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, pics, and video after the "read more" jump.

Volkswagen iD4 gets official EPA-range, mpg-e ratings for early editions

Volkswagen's all-new iD4 EV should be at your local dealer very soon and the EPA has released the official ratings for the first versions to be available. First up, are the 1st Edition and the Pro RWD 82 kWh models that feature rear-wheel drive, a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 200 hp and 225 lb./ft.  of torque (instant EV torque), and a battery pack that allows a fast-charge (125 kW) from 5 to 80 % in less than 40 minutes. The EPA rates the iD4 at 104 MPGe, highway driving is rated at 89 MPGe, and combined city/highway at 97 MPGe. The EPA also estimates that new iD4 owners will save about $2,200 annually versus the average automobile. Don't forget that the iD4 will come with three-years of free charging with Electrify America as a promotional offer. VW is taking a different road with the development of the iD4. The little(ish) ute was designed to compete with other compact crossovers like the RAV-4 and CR-V (with gas engines) directly and not other EVs. This shift makes the iD4 more than competitive in it's class and an easier sales proposition for dealers and consumers. And. it ain't bad looking either. Later in 2021, an all-wheel drive version with more than 300 hp will be introduced. Those numbers have yet to be released. Pricing starts at $39,995 + for the Pro model and Federal and State rebates are available. More to come. Check out the brief media release after the jump.

Source: Volkswagen - Media release, video, and pics