We called the 2021 Volkswagen ID4 “perhaps the most important car VW has ever launched in the United States” after our first drive. The key to cementing its place in the company’s American history, though, likely comes down to its driving range. Thankfully for Volkswagen, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially rates the electric SUV to travel 250 miles on a full charge. That sum matches VW’s predictions and ought to quell the range anxiety of most consumers.
That said, the ID4’s EPA-rated range figure is less than that of the pricier Tesla Model Y. However, the VW offers slightly more range than the base Ford Mustang Mach-E, which nets an EPA-rated 230 miles of range. The Ford is also slightly more expensive than the entry-level ID4.
The ID4 will launch in two versions: the 1st Edition and the Pro. Both will offer an 82-kWh battery pack and a rear-mounted single electric motor that powers the rear wheels. To be clear, neither of these ID4 trims are all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive ID4 Pro arrives late next year, and its range remains a mystery.
Those prone to lots of driving, or a lack of access to home garage charging, will be buoyed to hear that VW will still offer three years of free fast charging through Electrify America’s 446 active charging stations in the United States. The ID4 Pro starts at $39,995 (excluding destination fee and before the $7,500 federal tax credit). The 1st Edition, which sticker for $43,995, is already sold out.
