Overview
The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 S represents a mid-range configuration of the brand’s primary battery-electric crossover. Built on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB) platform, the ID.4 was designed to serve as a high-volume entry into the electric vehicle market, prioritizing interior space and ride comfort over aggressive performance metrics. The S trim level occupies a position between the entry-level Pro and the more feature-rich Pro S, offering a balance of standard convenience amenities and essential technology.
Manufacturing for the North American market transitioned to Volkswagen’s facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for the 2023 model year. This local production effort allowed the vehicle to qualify for specific federal tax incentives, significantly influencing its market positioning. The vehicle features a rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, providing a driving experience characterized by the immediate torque delivery typical of electric powertrains, paired with a chassis tuned for stability and daily utility.
The ID.4 has established itself as a competitor in the compact SUV segment, targeting families and commuters who require a practical, zero-emission vehicle. Its design language emphasizes aerodynamics and cabin volume, utilizing the flat floor architecture afforded by the battery placement. While the software interface and infotainment responsiveness have been subjects of critique, the vehicle remains a notable entry for its build quality and refined road manners.
| Vehicle Overview | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | ID.4 S |
| Model Year | 2023 |
| Generation | 1st Generation |
| Trim | S |
| Body Style | Small Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Vehicle Segment | Compact Crossover |
| Vehicle Class | Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD |
| Market | USA |
| Platform | MEB |
| Assembly Plant | Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Production Start | 2022 |
| Production End | – |
| VIN Identifier | 1VW |
| Base MSRP | $43,795 |
| Destination Charge | $1,295 |
| Total MSRP | $45,090 |
| Powertrain | |
| Powertrain Type | Battery Electric (BEV) |
| Horsepower | 201 hp |
| Torque | 229 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Transmission | Automatic (A1) |
| Final Drive Ratio | – |
| Axle Ratio | – |
| Fuel Economy | |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| EPA City MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | 115 |
| EPA Highway MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | 99 |
| EPA Combined MPGe (for EV/PHEV) | 107 |
| Estimated Driving Range | 275 miles |
| Annual Fuel Cost | $650 |
| CO₂ Emissions | 0 g/mi |
| Greenhouse Gas Score | 10 |
| Smog Rating | 10 |
| Electric Vehicle System | |
| Battery Supplier | SK On |
| Battery Chemistry | Lithium-ion |
| Gross Battery Capacity (kWh) | 82 |
| Usable Battery Capacity (kWh) | 77 |
| System Voltage | 400V |
| Number of Motors | 1 |
| Combined Output | 150 kW AC 3-Phase |
| Combined Torque | 229 lb-ft |
| EPA Range (Miles) | 275 |
| On-board Charger Power (kW) | 11 |
| AC Charging Power | 11 kW |
| DC Fast Charging Power | 170 kW |
| Charge Port | CCS1 |
| Charging Standard (CCS1/NACS) | CCS1 |
| DC Charge Time (10-80%) | 30 minutes |
| Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) | No |
| Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) | No |
| Heat Pump | No |
| Performance | |
| 0-60 mph | 7.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 99 mph |
| Power-to-Weight Ratio | – |
| Dimensions & Capacities | |
| Length (in) | 180.5 |
| Width (Without Mirrors) (in) | 72.9 |
| Height (in) | 65.1 |
| Wheelbase (in) | 108.9 |
| Curb Weight (lbs) | 4,658 |
| Towing Capacity (lbs) | 2,200 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft) | 30.3 |
| Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft) | 64.2 |
| Safety Ratings | |
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars |
| IIHS Award | Top Safety Pick+ |
| Technology & Connectivity | |
| Infotainment Display | 12-inch touchscreen |
| Instrument Cluster | 5.3-inch Digital Cockpit |
| Apple CarPlay | Wireless |
| Android Auto | Wireless |
| Navigation System | Standard |
| Audio System | 7-speaker |
| Wireless Charging | Standard |
| OTA Updates | Yes |
| Warranty & Ownership | |
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| EV Battery Warranty | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 2 years/20,000 miles |
| Specs.Autos Exclusive Data | |
| Battery Cell Manufacturer | SK On |
| Safety Recall Count | – |
Consumer Insights & Market Appeal
The 2023 ID.4 S is generally regarded as a reliable daily driver, though owners frequently highlight the infotainment system’s occasional lag and the unintuitive nature of the touch-capacitive controls on the steering wheel and door panels. Mechanically, the vehicle has proven robust, with the primary concerns centering on software glitches that have been addressed through over-the-air updates. In the used market, the ID.4 S is valued for its comfortable ride quality and spacious cabin, making it a practical choice for those transitioning to electric power. Prospective buyers should verify that all software recalls have been performed and check the condition of the charging port, as early units occasionally experienced minor connectivity issues with specific public charging hardware.
