Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Black Edition: A Comfortable, Practical EV Upgrade

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The Volkswagen ID.4 Black Edition is a worthwhile step up from the standard model, primarily due to its standard-fit massage seats, which enhance comfort on long drives. While VW aimed for the ID.4 to be a revolutionary model like the Beetle or Golf, it has instead become a solid, if not iconic, player in the electric SUV market—a vehicle that Ford has even adapted for its own Explorer and Capri lineups.

A Solid Electric Platform

The ID.4 rides on VW’s MEB electric platform, providing ample passenger space and good comfort. This comes at the expense of driving excitement; however, it’s a trade-off many buyers will accept for everyday usability. The Black Edition builds on the Match trim, adding gloss-black exterior accents and extra features.

Trim and Powertrain Options

The Black Edition is exclusively offered with the larger 77kWh battery, and buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4MOTION four-wheel drive (4WD). The 4WD variant costs an additional £1,720, but the performance benefits are marginal; the RWD model handles well even in slippery conditions. The 282bhp powertrain delivers a 0-62mph time of 6.7 seconds (6.6 for 4MOTION).

Comfort and Efficiency

The ID.4 prioritizes comfort over sporty handling. The suspension is tuned for a smooth ride, and the optional massage seats are a standout feature. The interior offers generous rear passenger space, enhanced by the panoramic glass roof. The electric powertrain is reasonably efficient, averaging around 2.8 miles per kWh in cold conditions, with minimal range loss at higher speeds.

Charging Performance

While the ID.4’s maximum DC charging rate of 175kW is not class-leading, it can still charge from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. The car’s real-world efficiency is noteworthy; unlike some rivals, the predicted range doesn’t dramatically decrease at highway speeds.

The ID.4 Black Edition offers a compelling blend of comfort, practicality, and efficiency. The standard massage seats elevate the driving experience, while the RWD configuration provides sufficient traction for most drivers.

Specifications

Model: Volkswagen ID.4 Pro Black Edition 4MOTION
Price: From £48,120
Powertrain: 77kWh battery, dual electric motors
Power/Torque: 282bhp/545Nm
Transmission: Single-speed automatic, four-wheel drive
0-62mph: 6.6 seconds
Top Speed: 112mph
Range: 321 miles
Max Charging: 175kW (10-80% in 28 minutes)
Dimensions: 4,584 x 1,851 x 1,634mm