VW Electric Cars Make Their Debut in South Africa: A First Look at the VW ID.4 Pro

The eagerly anticipated VW ID.4 Pro has finally arrived in South Africa. VW’s electric SUV promises a blend of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Here’s our first drive review of this pioneering EV. The VW ID.4 Pro has officially landed in South Africa, marking a significant milestone for electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. After much anticipation, Volkswagen has introduced 10 units of the ID.4 Pro derivative as part of a pilot project to gauge the viability of expanding its EV portfolio in South Africa. Local media had the opportunity to test drive this trailblazing vehicle, and the experience was nothing short of impressive.

Performance and Driving Experience

The VW ID.4 Pro is equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor that generates 150kW and 310Nm of torque, powered by a 77kWh battery pack. This setup allows the ID.4 Pro to sprint from 0-100km/h in approximately 8.5 seconds, comparable to the performance of a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel Tiguan. The SUV’s steering may require a bit more proactive input, but its comfort is unparalleled. Thanks to its low center of gravity and well-tuned suspension, the ID.4 Pro handles corners and bumps with ease, even with its large 19-inch alloy wheels.

The cabin is remarkably quiet due to the absence of engine noise, with only the hum of the tires audible when the infotainment system is off. This serene environment necessitates keeping a close eye on the speedometer, as the quietness can make you forget how fast you’re going. The ID.4 Pro boasts a maximum driving range of around 500km on a full charge, according to VW.

During our test drive, which covered about 103km, the battery dropped from 88% to 57%, with the available range decreasing from 408km to 255km. This resulted in an average consumption of 18kWh/100km, which is commendable given VW’s claimed average of 16.4kWh/100km. Notably, VW has designed the ID.4 Pro’s battery management system to ensure it never drops below 5% charge, although what happens at this threshold remains unspecified.

Design and Interior

The design of the ID.4 Pro is distinct and may not appeal to everyone. Its steeply raked windscreen and aerodynamic bulges enhance its range while creating a sportscar-like seating position. Inside, the ID.4 Pro maintains VW’s signature quality with a well-put-together cabin, a mix of soft and durable materials, and attractive finishes. The touch-sensitive controls and the 10-inch infotainment system are user-friendly, although occasional misclicks can occur.

The seats, wrapped in stylish suede/leather upholstery, are exceptionally comfortable, and the spacious cabin offers a substantial 500-litre boot with a through-loading hatch between the rear seats. The driver’s instrument cluster, though small at 5.3 inches, provides ample configurability. Gear selection is managed via a rotary controller on the side of the driver’s display, which, despite being unconventional, feels intuitive.

Advanced Features and Technology

The ID.4 Pro comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and 360-degree cameras. These systems are designed to be non-intrusive, enhancing the driving experience without causing unnecessary stress.

Conveniently, the wireless charging pad is placed in a cubby between the front seats, ensuring your phone remains secure even during spirited driving. Smart Climate settings allow for quick adjustments, such as warming your feet or rapidly cooling the cabin with a single button press.

Future Prospects

While the current batch of ID.4 Pro units is reserved for media, dealers, and select VW clients, the electric SUV is expected to be available to the general public by 2025. VW’s cautious approach aims to provide a comprehensive value proposition that aligns with customer budgets. Additionally, a new ID.4 model is slated for release in Europe in 2025, which VW plans to bring to South Africa, ensuring customers receive the latest advancements.

Conclusion

The VW ID.4 Pro is a superb product, showcasing VW’s commitment to the EV market. Its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced features positions it as a strong contender in the growing electric vehicle segment in South Africa. While some features like electric seats and an electric tailgate are missing, they are not dealbreakers. The ID.4 Pro represents a promising step forward in VW’s electric vehicle journey.