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Coming soon: Volkswagen ID.5
More details and undisguised pictures released for VW’s sporty evolution of its ID.3 and ID.4 electric range
Volkswagen has confirmed more details of the ID.5 electric SUV, which joins the existing ID.3 and ID.4 as the brand moves inexorably to full electrification of its range.
Combining the practicality of the ID.4 with sportier, coupe-inspired lines, the ID.5 joins a growing family of related cars, including the Skoda Enyaq and Audi Q4 E-Tron, the respective Coupé and Sportback versions of which follow a similar pattern of SUV stance with sleeker hatchback looks. All share the same foundations of VW’s MEB electric platform, its long wheelbase freeing up more interior space and the option of a single motor driving the rear wheels or, in the case of the more powerful GTX version, two motors for extra performance and effective all-wheel drive. While sleeker than the ID.4 practicality is barely affected, VW reporting headroom has been reduced by just 12mm while the boot remains usefully massive at just shy of 550 litres.
Combining the practicality of the ID.4 with sportier, coupe-inspired lines, the ID.5 joins a growing family of related cars, including the Skoda Enyaq and Audi Q4 E-Tron, the respective Coupé and Sportback versions of which follow a similar pattern of SUV stance with sleeker hatchback looks. All share the same foundations of VW’s MEB electric platform, its long wheelbase freeing up more interior space and the option of a single motor driving the rear wheels or, in the case of the more powerful GTX version, two motors for extra performance and effective all-wheel drive. While sleeker than the ID.4 practicality is barely affected, VW reporting headroom has been reduced by just 12mm while the boot remains usefully massive at just shy of 550 litres.
Both the ID.5 and the GTX version use the same 77kWh battery pack and both will cover well over 300 miles on a full charge, though the standard model is slightly better in this regard. The ID.5 also includes the third-generation ID model operating system, with improvements to voice control and charging performance as well as over the air updates. This includes what VW describes as “activation of additional functions so that the ID.5 can stay up-to-date for a long time”, which in real terms amounts to downloadable add-ons you can buy as you might with your games console or home entertainment subscription and is all part of the brand’s stated ambition to become a “software-oriented mobility provider”, rather than just a car manufacturer.
Volkswagen is still yet to confirm power outputs but, using the GTX version of the ID.4, Q4 E-Tron Quattro and Enyaq vRS as indicators it’s safe to assume a similar 299 horsepower output with 0-62mph in a little more than six seconds. Quick enough, but if beating sports cars away from the lights is your thing you’re still better off with the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 or – inevitably – the latest Tesla Model Y.
For those in the real world the ID.5’s excellent range will be of more interest for those making the switch from regular petrol or diesel SUVs. Pricing, specification and other details will be confirmed in due course.
For those in the real world the ID.5’s excellent range will be of more interest for those making the switch from regular petrol or diesel SUVs. Pricing, specification and other details will be confirmed in due course.
