VW.ID 5 GTX prototype: Inner values

The days of almost infinite individualism are probably over with automobiles. Instead of long equipment lists and related details, which in the VW group should conceal the common parts strategy as well as possible, the same components are clearly used in the ID models. For the VW ID.5, that means MEB and three drive alternatives: rear-wheel drive with 128 kW / 174 PS, 150 kW / 204 PS and the GTX with 220 kW / 299 PS as well as the dual-motor all-wheel drive. However, the Wolfsburg-based company wants to entice business customers into electric cars with the electric coupe. That is why the ID.5 will always have the large 77 kilowatt hour battery and probably more extensive equipment, which will then be available at a correspondingly higher price from the first half of next year.

We drive a prototype of the GTX top model and recognize the typical VW ID interior with the 5.3 inch virtual cockpit, the 12 inch central touchscreen and the large head-up display, which also includes augmented reality, under the mandatory covers controlled. Ultimately, VW makes much less effort to design the interiors of individual models differently. As already mentioned, the modular drive system also has few surprises in store.

There is sometimes that for the software, for which the Lower Saxony carmaker did not always smear itself with fame, especially with the debut model VW ID.3. Now VW is proud to announce that the ID.5 will have the latest software, which is currently version 2.3, which can be recognized by a slightly changed brand logo in the infotainment. Further improvements are to be made in the course of the model cycle either by the VW dealer or wirelessly. The software package is then downloaded in the background and only installed after the driver has given his consent. As early as December, the ID models should “notably” (VW) be able to charge faster, which will also benefit the ID.5. It’s high time, because charging with a maximum of 125 kW is currently no longer competitive.

In addition to the inner values, the VW ID.5 naturally has its own silhouette compared to the ID.4, but ultimately it is nothing more than a different hat, since the chassis and the weight of a good 2.1 tons are not changed. VW wants to earn money with electromobility and there is no room for the attention to detail that distinguished VW under the regime of former CEO Martin Winterkorn. After all, with the electric crossover coupé with 21-inch wheels and short overhangs, the designers are trying to force the sporty design language. So the proportions already fit. Especially since the ID.5 is 4.61 meters longer than the ID.4 by three centimeters. The trunk volume remains the same at 543 liters despite the sloping roof line.

Despite the camouflage film, you can see the VW ID. GTX an innovation that brings the Stromer back into the future. Because the SUV coupé is the first vehicle from the Wolfsburg-based company since the VW Scirocco to be equipped with an integrated rear spoiler. That should be well received by the tradition-conscious parts of the targeted clientele. Whether the additional board on the back of the e-crossover looks good will be shown when the camouflage film is peeled off. In the sister model Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback, this component does not meet with everyone’s approval. However, the spoiler also fulfills an aerodynamic purpose, as it reduces turbulence at the rear and thus increases aerodynamic efficiency. This is reflected in the ID.5 GTX in about ten kilometers more range compared to the ID.4. GTX down. VW does not yet have any final values, but is currently assuming 497 km (according to the WLTP cycle).

When driving, the VW ID.5 GTX shows just as little nakedness as the ID.4 does. Even in the Eco program, the E-SUV Coupé is fast enough on the road. However, VW also relies on sailing in this driving program instead of recuperation as is the case in the other modes, since carefree taxiing is more efficient. When you switch to the sports program, you get even more agility and traction is available thanks to the all-wheel drive with the asynchronous machine at the front, which supports the rear engine if necessary. The comfort is also good and with the ID.5 you are also equipped for longer distances to cover them in a relaxed manner. However, the VW ID.5 will also end at a top speed of 180 km / h and the standard sprint from zero km / h to 100 km / h will be completed in around 6.2 seconds. However, VW apparently has a surprise up its sleeve: After all, a sedan that uses the ID. Vizzion has announced that it will be implemented. This could well be possible with the ID.5, as well as a station wagon or a shooting brake. The chassis would be adapted relatively easily.