The Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Match offers a practical and comfortable experience as a family-oriented electric SUV. However, it fails to shine in terms of excitement or innovation compared to other electric vehicles in the same price bracket. This review will explore the ID.4 Pure Match’s features, performance, and pricing structure, while offering guidance on whether it’s worth the investment.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a solid mid-size electric SUV that focuses on comfort and practicality rather than cutting-edge performance or bold design. The ID.4 Pure Match, specifically, offers basic upgrades over the entry-level Pure Essential model. But at a price tag of £39,590, it presents a tough case when you consider other models in the ID.4 range that provide better value for money. While the Pure Match is aimed at a mid-range buyer looking for a practical, comfortable electric vehicle, its pricing and range choices may not make it the best option for everyone.
Key Features of the ID.4 Pure Match
Battery and Powertrain
The ID.4 Pure Match uses a 52kWh battery paired with a rear-wheel-drive electric motor. It produces 168bhp and delivers a range of 222 miles on a full charge. With a maximum charging speed of 145kW, the ID.4 Pure Match can be quickly charged on compatible fast-charging stations. Though these figures are decent, they fall short compared to the Pro Essential model, which offers a larger 77kWh battery, more power, and a significantly greater range of 351 miles.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Performance from the 52kWh battery and electric motor is sufficient for everyday driving. The 0-62mph time of 9 seconds is quite reasonable, and the ID.4 accelerates smoothly without any noticeable struggle from the wheels. It’s an easy car to drive in town and on highways. However, it lacks the engaging dynamics found in some other EVs, with the steering being light, slow, and devoid of feedback. The suspension setup prioritizes comfort over sporty handling, leading to noticeable body roll when cornering at higher speeds. For drivers who enjoy a more connected driving experience, the ID.4 Pure Match may not be the most exciting choice.
Comfort and Ride Quality
Where the ID.4 excels is in ride comfort. The suspension absorbs bumps and uneven road surfaces with ease, making it a comfortable option for long-distance travel. The cabin is quiet, with minimal noise intrusion, and the driving position is highly adjustable, catering to a wide range of drivers, including taller individuals. The soft suspension makes urban driving a smooth experience, although it does result in a less stable ride when compared to firmer rivals like the Renault Scenic.
Short Summary
Attribute |
Detail |
|---|---|
Model |
Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Match |
Price |
£39,590 |
Battery |
52kWh |
Range |
222 miles |
Power |
168bhp |
Charging Speed |
145kW |
0-62mph |
9.0 seconds |
Top Speed |
99mph |
Official Website |
Interior and Practicality
Cabin Design and Quality
Inside, the ID.4 Pure Match may not win any awards for bold design, but it offers a high level of practicality. The build quality is typical of Volkswagen, offering a solid feel with a few dashes of piano black plastic and aluminum highlights. While it’s not as visually striking as some newer EVs, the cabin is functional and well-made. However, the minimalist dashboard design could be considered too plain for some tastes.
Space and Storage
The ID.4 Pure Match shines when it comes to practicality. The interior provides plenty of headroom for taller passengers, and the rear seats offer generous space for adults. The flat floor and ample foot space make it a comfortable car for families. For storage, the ID.4 is also quite practical, with a large 543-litre boot and various compartments for stowing items. The boot features a low loading lip and a compartment beneath the floor for storing charging cables. However, the rear seats do not slide or fold flat, limiting the car’s versatility when it comes to carrying larger or awkward items.
Pricing and Value
The Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Match starts at £39,590, which is £2,600 more than the Pure Essential trim, but it offers relatively minimal upgrades, such as larger alloy wheels and tinted rear windows. While this trim does provide some added luxury over the entry-level model, the price premium seems steep, especially when you consider the Pro Essential version, which offers a better powertrain, larger battery, and longer range for the same price.
At the time of writing, Volkswagen is offering discounts and subsidies to offset the high base price of the ID.4, and buyers who opt for the cheaper Pure Essential and Pro Essential trims could still qualify for the Government Electric Car Grant, making those versions more appealing overall. However, due to these pricing quirks, the Pure Match does not represent the best value for money.
Competitor Comparison
The ID.4 faces stiff competition from other electric SUVs in the same price bracket, many of which offer similar features but with more dynamic performance, bolder designs, and often better value for money. Rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Tesla Model Y provide better range, quicker charging, and more exciting driving dynamics, making the ID.4 seem rather unremarkable in comparison.
Conclusion: Is the ID.4 Pure Match Worth It?
The Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Match is a competent and comfortable electric vehicle with a solid range and practical interior. However, its high price for limited upgrades makes it difficult to recommend over the more affordable Pro Essential model or other rivals in the market. While it will suit drivers looking for an easy-to-drive, no-fuss electric SUV, those who value excitement, design, and performance might be better served elsewhere.
FAQs
Q. What is the range of the Volkswagen ID.4 Pure Match?
A. The ID.4 Pure Match offers a range of 222 miles on a full charge.
Q. How fast can the ID.4 Pure Match charge?
A. The ID.4 Pure Match supports a maximum charging speed of 145kW, allowing it to charge quickly at compatible stations.
Q. Is the ID.4 Pure Match a good family car?
A. Yes, the ID.4 Pure Match offers excellent practicality, including generous headroom, a spacious boot, and rear seats that comfortably fit adults.
Q. Why is the ID.4 Pure Match so expensive?
A. The ID.4 Pure Match is priced higher than the Pure Essential version due to upgraded features like larger wheels and tinted windows. However, its price point makes it less competitive compared to other trims with better range and features.
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