2025 VW ID.4 Review: Electric Range, Charging, and Price
2025 VW ID.4 Review: Electric Range, Charging, and Price
The electric vehicle revolution is accelerating, and Volkswagen is at the forefront with its ID.4 SUV. The 2025 VW ID.4 builds upon the success of its predecessors with enhanced performance, improved technology, and greater efficiency. As one of the most competitively priced all-electric compact SUVs on the market, the ID.4 continues to appeal to eco-conscious drivers who value driving dynamics, practicality, and modern design. In this comprehensive review, we dive deep into the 2025 VW ID.4’s electric range, charging capabilities, price structure, and everything else you need to know before making a purchase decision.
What’s New in the 2025 VW ID.4?
The 2025 model year brings several refinements to the VW ID.4 lineup. While it retains the core architecture of the modular electric drive matrix (MEB), Volkswagen has focused on upgrading software, improving battery efficiency, and enhancing driver-assist features. Key updates include:
- A new battery management system for improved energy utilization
- Enhanced infotainment with over-the-air (OTA) update capability
- Revised suspension tuning for a smoother ride
- Increased standard equipment across all trims
- Updated exterior lighting signatures with full LED headlights
These subtle yet meaningful changes make the 2025 ID.4 more appealing in a crowded EV segment that includes the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Electric Range: How Far Can the 2025 VW ID.4 Go?
One of the most critical factors for any electric vehicle is range—the distance it can travel on a full charge. The 2025 VW ID.4 delivers impressive range figures thanks to its updated lithium-ion battery packs and improved aerodynamics.
Range by Trim Level
The ID.4 is available in several configurations, each offering different range performance based on drivetrain and battery size.
- Base Pro (RWD, Standard Battery): Up to 260 miles of EPA-estimated range
- Pro (RWD, Extended Range): Up to 300 miles
- Pro S (AWD, Extended Range): Up to 280 miles
- Pro Performance (AWD, Performance Pack): Up to 270 miles
The 300-mile range on the rear-wheel-drive extended-range model makes the ID.4 a serious contender for long-distance driving and daily commuting alike. This impressive efficiency stems from VW’s optimized MEB platform, which integrates the battery pack into the floor for lower center of gravity and reduced drag.
Real-World Range Expectations
While EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world driving conditions impact actual range. On average, drivers report:
- 250–280 miles in mixed city and highway driving
- 220–240 miles during highway-only travel at 70+ mph
- 300+ miles in mild weather with conservative driving
Cold weather can reduce range by 10–20%, which is common across most EVs due to increased energy demands for cabin heating and reduced battery efficiency. The ID.4’s heat pump and pre-conditioning features help mitigate this loss, especially when using the Volkswagen app to warm the battery before departure.
Charging the 2025 VW ID.4: Speed, Options, and Network Access
Charging infrastructure and speed are major concerns for EV buyers. The 2025 VW ID.4 supports multiple charging methods and offers fast DC charging capabilities that keep downtime to a minimum.
DC Fast Charging: How Fast Is It?
The 2025 ID.4 supports DC fast charging at up to 170 kW under ideal conditions. This means:
- 10% to 80% charge in approximately 30 minutes
- About 200 miles of range added in 30 minutes at a high-powered charger
- Compatible with CCS (Combined Charging System) connectors, the North American standard
Volkswagen has partnered with Electrify America, providing ID.4 owners with 3 years of free 30-minute charging sessions at any Electrify America station. This generous perk eliminates initial charging anxiety and gives owners access to one of the largest fast-charging networks in the U.S.
Level 2 Charging (Home and Public)
For home charging or public Level 2 stations, the ID.4 uses a J1772 connector via a supplied adapter. VW includes a 40-amp home charging unit (Level 2) with select trims, which can deliver about 30 miles of range per hour of charging.
- Overnight charging (8–10 hours) fully replenishes the battery from empty
- Public Level 2 stations are widely available at shopping centers, workplaces, and parking garages
Installing a home charging station is highly recommended for convenience. Most owners can use a 240-volt NEMA 14-50 outlet or a professionally installed wall-mounted charger.
Level 1 Charging (Standard Outlet)
The ID.4 can also be charged using a standard 120-volt household outlet with the included Level 1 charging cable. However, this method is quite slow:
- Adds about 3–4 miles of range per hour
- Takes over 40 hours to fully charge from empty
Level 1 charging is best reserved for emergencies or short top-offs during travel, not routine use.
Volkswagen’s Charging App and Route Planning
The Volkswagen We Connect app allows users to monitor charging status, schedule charging times to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates, and locate nearby charging stations. The onboard navigation system integrates real-time charging availability and automatically routes drivers to compatible stations, including estimated charge times and costs.
Performance: Power, Handling, and Driving Dynamics
The 2025 VW ID.4 offers a well-balanced driving experience that blends efficiency with engaging performance.
Motor Configurations and Power Output
Depending on the trim, the ID.4 is available with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD):
- RWD Models: 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque
- AWD Models: 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque (combined output)
The AWD version, known as the ID.4 Pro S or ID.4 Pro Performance, delivers brisk acceleration, hitting 0–60 mph in about 5.4 seconds. That’s competitive with many gasoline-powered performance SUVs and suitable for confident highway merging and spirited driving.
Ride and Handling
The ID.4 rides on a torsion-beam rear suspension in base trims and a multi-link setup in higher trims, contributing to a composed and comfortable ride. The low-slung battery pack enhances stability, reducing body roll in corners. Steering is light but precise, making the ID.4 easy to maneuver in urban environments while remaining stable at high speeds.
Volkswagen offers multiple drive modes—Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual—which adjust throttle response, regenerative braking, and climate control settings. The Sport mode sharpens acceleration and adds artificial motor sounds through the speakers for a more engaging experience.
Regenerative Braking
The ID.4 features adjustable regenerative braking, allowing drivers to coast or enable one-pedal driving. In higher regen settings, lifting off the accelerator produces significant deceleration, reducing the need to use the brake pedal in city traffic. This not only improves efficiency but also reduces brake wear.
Interior Design and Features
The 2025 VW ID.4 boasts a minimalist, modern interior focused on usability and sustainability. Interior materials use recycled fabrics and low-VOC components, reflecting VW’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Seating and Space
As a compact electric SUV, the ID.4 offers ample space for passengers and cargo:
- Spacious front and rear seating for five adults
- 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats
- 64.2 cubic feet with rear seats folded
- Front trunk (frunk) with 2.3 cubic feet—ideal for charging cables or small items
The flat floor (thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel) enhances rear passenger comfort, with enough legroom for taller occupants.
Infotainment and Technology
The centerpiece of the ID.4’s cabin is the 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, running on VW’s updated MIB3 platform. Key features include:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Voice control with natural language recognition
- Integrated Google built-in for navigation, search, and smart assistant functions
- Digital cockpit with customizable displays
The system is more responsive than earlier versions, with faster boot-up times and improved menu navigation. However, some functions still require multiple taps, and the lack of physical climate controls may frustrate some users.
Driver Assistance and Safety
The 2025 ID.4 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, including:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability
- Lane-keeping assist with lane centering
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Emergency assist (automatic braking in critical situations)
Optional packages add features like Travel Assist (semi-autonomous driving on highways), adaptive headlights, and an enhanced surround-view camera system. The ID.4 has earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and high marks from the NHTSA, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
The 2025 VW ID.4 maintains its sleek, aerodynamic profile with subtle design updates that enhance both aesthetics and efficiency. With a drag coefficient of just 0.28, it’s one of the most aerodynamic SUVs on the market.
Distinctive features include:
- Full LED headlights with signature daytime running lights
- Flush-mounted door handles to reduce drag
- Larger alloy wheel options up to 20 inches
- Available two-tone paint schemes
- Updated rear light bar with animated turn signals
The ID.4’s design language reflects VW’s new 'electric aesthetic'—clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and a focus on function. It's modern without being flashy, appealing to buyers who prefer understated elegance.
Price and Trim Levels: What Does the 2025 ID.4 Cost?
Pricing for the 2025 VW ID.4 remains competitive, positioning it as an accessible gateway into the EV market. All prices include the $1,295 destination fee.
Trim Breakdown and Pricing
- ID.4 Pro (RWD, Standard Range): $37,995
- ID.4 Pro (RWD, Extended Range): $40,995
- ID.4 Pro S (AWD, Extended Range): $44,995
- ID.4 Pro Performance (AWD, Performance Pack): $47,995
Additional options such as the panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, or advanced driver-assist packages can increase the price by $2,000–$4,000.
Federal and State Incentives
Buyers may qualify for up to $7,500 in federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, provided the vehicle meets final assembly and battery component requirements. As of 202