Volkswagen had a while back announced its plan to enter the electric mobility space in India. While their exact plans might be revealed at the upcoming Auto Expo in 2023, the company’s e-SUV was recently spied testing around Pune. This was the ID 4 electric SUV in the top end GTX trim. The fact that the vehicle has been spotted in without camouflage suggests that the brand may soon release the ID 4 in the Indian market. Internationally, this model locks horns with e-SUVs like the Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40 Recharge.
The upcoming Volkswagen ID4 uses the MEB (Modular Electric Drive Matrix) architecture from the manufacturer. The same MEB platform will also support the upcoming Skoda Enyaq iV. For the uninitiated, both Skoda and VW are part of the same automotive group. The ID4 GTX, if launched, would carry a price tag of about Rs 50-55 lakh, ex-showroom.
Volkswagen ID 4 – Design
If we discuss the ID 4’s design aesthetic, it resembles a typical ICE SUV. The spotted car had a dual-tone colour with Metallic Black colour and piano black roof & pillars. The vehicle’s front profile features LED headlights with DRLs built. The ID 4 has a closed grille with a chrome lining. Small vents on the front bumper are there to keep the electric system cool. Additionally, the vehicle has matte black inserts in place of fog lamps.
The dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels on the sides, which appear to be 20 inches, similar to the international spec edition, are a nice touch. The SUV has a coupe-like appearance. It has connected LED taillights and a stoplight located on the spoiler at the back. The centre of the rear bumper has a number plate recess and the bumper is finished in black colour.
The ID 4’s interior features an entirely new design language, and the India-spec version is anticipated to have the same. Volkswagen offers the option to modify the interior of the SUV on the international market, and it is anticipated that this will also be available of the Indian-spec version. The international variant’s features include multi-function steering wheels, fully digital instrument panels, and three-zone climate control, among other premium features. To keep costs low, VW might assemble the ID4 GTX locally at its Chakan plant near Pune.
Also Read: You can now buy the BYD EV6 for private use
Volkswagen ID 4 – Powertrain
The model that was sighted on Indian roads was the top-of-the-line GTX variant. This one gets separate motors on each axle and hence, an AWD or all-wheel drive system. The GTX gets a 77 kWh battery pack that can provide a range of 450–480 km on a single charge – this is pretty good in our opinion. As is the case with most premium EVs, the Volkswagen ID4 will feature DC fast charging too. The manufacturer may also release affordable rear-wheel drive models to increase the vehicle’s value for the money in India. Let’s wait and watch for more updates!