The ID.5 is the latest addition
- What is the Volkswagen ID.5?
- What’s new for the Volkswagen ID.5?
- What’s under the bonnet of the Volkswagen ID.5?
- How does the Volkswagen ID.5 look?
- What’s it like inside the Volkswagen ID.5?
- What’s the spec like in the Volkswagen ID.5?
- Verdict on the Volkswagen ID.5
What is it?
Volkswagen is working hard to expand its all-electric ID range of vehicles, and the ID.5 is the latest addition. It’s playing up to the on-trend, in-demand character right now thanks to taking an SUV shape and giving it a little coupe-esque flair.
It’s based on the more conventional SUV shape of the ID.4 but sacrifices a little in the way of practicality in favour of style. You still get all of the modern technology we’ve come to expect in this range, as well as big batteries and even a performance-focused GTX version.
What’s new?
If you’re familiar with the ID.4 there’s not a great deal that’s particularly new here. That’s no bad thing, though, as you get a big battery with a different range and power outputs depending on your needs.
There’s also fast charging capability, while the latest software updates that enable the ID.5 to use ‘swarm’ data, which allows it to communicate with other vehicles to warn of approaching hazards, for example.
What’s under the bonnet?
Opt for the ID.5 Tech or Max and you have a choice of Pro and Pro Performance models, with all variations having a 77kWh battery and capable of taking a charge of 135kW, which can take the battery from 0-80 per cent in less than 30 minutes.
The Tech Pro makes 172bhp and has a range of up to 313 miles between charges, while the Pro Performance has 201bhp yet still manages the same range figure. Max models have the same outputs but the range is 311 miles.
If you’re looking for a little more sportiness, the GTX makes 295bhp and has a range of up to 296 miles. With all-wheel-drive courtesy of a dual-motor system, it can go from 0-60mph in under six seconds.
How does it look?
Volkswagen has done a fantastic job of giving the traditional SUV shape a shake-up for its ID models, and the stylish ID.5 is no different. It has a chunky yet curvy appearance, with a prominent grille in the lower front bumper and slim LED headlights.
At the rear, you have that sloping roofline that gives a decidedly sporty impression, with a subtle spoiler above similarly slimline LED lights at the rear. Large alloy wheels fill the arches nicely, while sharp lines in the bodywork break up the larger panels well.
What’s it like inside?
The ID.5 is a big car and this is particularly evident once you climb inside. For those in the front, there’s loads of space, with a high roof and plenty of space between driver and passenger. There are also large, modern screens on the dashboard that take control of most of the functions.
The sloping roofline does have a little impact on rear headroom, but even taller passengers should find there’s enough space to travel longer distances in comfort. Material quality is perhaps the only let down, as there are some cheaper plastics to be found, though durability and build quality somewhat make up for it.
What’s the spec like?
Prices for the ID.5 start at £50,550 for the Tech trim and you get 19-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and tail lights, a panoramic glass roof, 12-inch infotainment display and various safety and driver assistance systems.
Step up to the Max from £54,050 and you get 20-inch wheels and a heat pump that improves efficiency, while the GTX starts at £58,640 and on top of the dual electric motors you get a sporty interior and slightly different exterior.
Verdict
The VW ID.4 has already proved popular with buyers so there’s no doubt a more stylish version should also win buyers over. There’s a good selection of powertrains too, so you can adapt it to your needs and budget.
There’s not too much difference in equipment between models, so unless you want the sporty version the entry-level Tech might be the best value for money. That said, performance enthusiasts will welcome the addition of the new go-faster GTX brand on VW’s electric vehicles, evolving the much-loved GTI badging.