Volkswagen’s Electric Revolution: The ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs Coming to Australia
Fans of the Volkswagen brand in Australia have a reason to celebrate as the automotive giant announces the arrival of its all-electric ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs. Scheduled for a December 2024 launch, this release marks a significant step in Volkswagen’s extensive product rollout over the next 12 months.
Rollout Plan for the ID.4 and ID.5
In a slight deviation from their initial plans, Volkswagen’s local arm is now scheduled to launch the ID.4 Pro and ID.5 GTX in December. The ID.4 GTX and ID.5 Pro are set to make their debut Down Under in mid-2025. This is a shift from the initial plans that aimed to launch both Pro RWD and GTX AWD versions of the ID.4 and ID.5 simultaneously.
As confirmed by Volkswagen Australia, local-spec vehicles are now in production and soon will make their way to Australian shores. While the pricing details remain under wraps, the brand assures that the cost will be “cross-comparable”.
Performance and Specifications
The ID.4 Pro is equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 210kW and 545Nm, capable of going from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds. It is powered by an 82kWh lithium-ion battery pack (77kWh usable) providing up to 544 kilometres of WLTP-certified range. It also supports fast charging at a rate of up to 135kW via a DC fast charger.
On the other hand, the ID.5 GTX, with a dual-motor electric drive system, boasts system outputs of 250kW and 679Nm. This powerful configuration cuts the 0-100km/h time to 5.4 seconds. The GTX shares the same 77kWh (net) battery as the ID.4 Pro but ups the DC charging capacity to 175kW. The WLTP-certified range for the ID.5 GTX is 528 kilometres.
The ID.4 GTX and ID.5 Pro essentially mirror the specs of their counterparts. However, the coupe-styled ID.5 squeezes out about 10-15km more driving range, according to WLTP figures.
Features and Add-ons
Among the standard equipment highlights of the ID.4 and ID.5 Pro are 19-inch Hamar black alloy wheels, Dynamic Chassis Control, Matrix LED headlights, Dynamic Light Assist, 3D-effect tail lights, tri-zone climate control, and a 12.9-inch infotainment system. Additional features include power-adjustable, heated front seats with memory, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, hands-free power tailgate, and advanced safety features including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
The ID.4 and ID.5 GTX variants bring in more luxury with 20-inch Ystad alloy wheels, sports seats with integrated headrests, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. Buyers can also opt for a heat pump and a selection of premium paint finishes.
More Electric Vehicles on the Horizon
Volkswagen’s electric vehicle (EV) expansion doesn’t stop with the ID.4 and ID.5. The brand also plans to launch the all-electric ID.Buzz MPV and ID.Buzz Cargo van. The ID.Buzz GTX dual-motor performance variant will follow in the second quarter of 2024. Further, the next-generation Transporter range, featuring an EV powertrain option, will be headed Down Under during the third quarter of 2025.
Final Comments
Volkswagen’s commitment to an electric future is clear with the forthcoming launch of the ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs in Australia. The company’s adoption of advanced technology and commitment to sustainability is a win for consumers and the environment alike.
