The Volkswagen ID. Cross is the new 100% electric compact SUV of the brand, based on the platform MEB+. Available in Germany from 27 995 €it offers up to 427 km of autonomy (WLTP cycle), a trunk volume of 475L and marks the return of physical buttons. It is available in three engines (116, 135 and 211 hp) and two batteries (37 and 52 kWh net).
With the presentation of the new ID.Crossthe German manufacturer Volkswagen is launching a reconquest operation. This model is the raised twin of the recent ID. Polo and shares the same ambition: to offer a relevant electrical solution and above all financially accessible.
It must correct the situation after the lackluster beginnings of the ID. family, by focusing on the fundamentals: space, perceived quality and finally sensible ergonomics.
What are the key technical characteristics of the Volkswagen ID. Cross?
The ID electric SUV. Cross offers a simple and effective technical range, structured around two batteries and three power levels. The entry-level version is equipped with a 37 kWh battery (LFP – Lithium-Fer-Phosphate) alimentant un 85 kW motor (116 ch) you 99 kW (135 hp), for a WLTP autonomy estimated at 316 km.
The second option combines a battery of 52 kWh (NMC – Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) with a motor of 155 kW (211 hp), bringing the autonomy to 427 km.
On the recharge side, the two versions display competitive times. The small battery goes from 10 to 80% in environ 23 minutes on a 90 kW DC (direct current) fast terminal while the large battery requires environ 24 minutes at a power of 105 kW.
These are solid numbers for everyday use and occasional getaways. This is a very rational technical offer. THE Volkswagen ID. Cross does not seek the absolute record but rather the best cost/performance compromise for the general public.
How does the design and ergonomics of the ID. Does Cross mark a break?
The most spectacular development is inside: Volkswagen has made reverse on the all-touch. The ID.Cross marks the great return of physical buttons on the steering wheel and under the 12.9-inch central screen for essential controls like air conditioning.
A dedicated audio volume dial even reappears between the seats. This is the end of an often criticized ergonomic parenthesis and an underlying trend, with several manufacturers having returned to physical buttons.
On the outside, the design Pure Positive aims to be more consensual and mature than the first IDs. Clear lines, a robust appearance and neat light signatures give the Volkswagen ID.Cross a reassuring look.
Inside, perceived quality takes a leap forward with fabric covered surfaces and more flattering plastics, especially on high finishes.
How does the ID. Does Cross position itself against the competition and T-Cross?
The Volkswagen ID. Cross directly outperforms its thermal cousin, the T-Crossin terms of habitability. Thanks to the MEB+ architecture, its wheelbase is extended by 5 cm, freeing up valuable space for rear passengers.
Its 475-liter trunk is also 20 liters larger, plus a small 25-liter front trunk, ideal for storing charging cables.
Faced with fierce competition embodied by the Peugeot e-2008, Renault 4 E-Tech or the future Kia EV2, the new model focuses on its homogeneity and brand image. Its starting price of less than €28,000 in Germany places it aggressively on the market.
VW plays a trump card: a rational and well thought-out product in a segment where every detail counts to attract families looking to go electric without making major compromises.
What surprising equipment and technologies can we find on board?
For a vehicle in this segment, the ID. Cross surprises with its optional equipment worthy of the higher categories. It can be equipped with 12-way power front seatsequipped with a pneumatic massage function, a first at this price level.
And Harman Kardon audio system 425 watts and a large panoramic roof are also available to transform the cabin into a real rolling lounge.
Driving aids are not left out. THE Connected Travel Assist new generation can now react to traffic lights, braking the vehicle automatically.
The function Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) is standard, allowing power to external devices up to 3.6 kW. The Volkswagen ID. Cross even has the luxury of offering a driving mode One Pedal and a towing capacity of up to 1,200 kg.
It’s a strategy designed to move upmarket and make people forget the sometimes spartan finishes of the group’s first electric models.
