Volkswagen has unveiled the final version of the ID. Cross, a compact electric SUV that will enter the European market with the goal of making the brand’s electric lineup more accessible. In Germany, the model will have a starting price of €27,995 and will be able to travel up to 427 kilometers on a single charge, according to the WLTP cycle.
The new SUV is part of Volkswagen’s next generation of compact electric cars and will be positioned as a combustion-engine-free alternative to the T-Cross. Initial orders have already opened in the German market, starting with the better-equipped versions.
Although its exterior dimensions are similar to those of the T-Cross, the ID. Cross makes better use of its interior space by using the MEB+ electric platform, which eliminates some of the mechanical components found in a conventional vehicle.
The SUV measures 4.15 meters long, 1.79 meters wide and 1.58 meters tall, with a wheelbase of 2.60 meters. The trunk has a capacity of 475 liters, 20 liters more than the T-Cross, in addition to a 25-liter front compartment intended mainly for storing charging cables.
Three power outputs and two battery options
Volkswagen will offer the ID. Cross with three power levels: 85 kW, equivalent to 116 hp; 99 kW, or 135 hp; and 155 kW, corresponding to 211 hp. All versions use front-wheel drive, an important change compared with the first models in the ID. family, which predominantly used motors installed on the rear axle.
Customers will be able to choose between batteries with usable capacities of 37 kWh and 52 kWh. The configuration with the larger battery can achieve a range of up to 427 kilometers under the WLTP standard, although real-world results may vary according to speed, temperature, terrain and use of the climate-control system.
At direct-current charging stations, the smaller battery accepts up to 90 kW and can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 23 minutes. The 52 kWh unit supports up to 105 kW and completes the same process in around 24 minutes.
At alternating-current stations and home chargers, the maximum charging power is 11 kW.
Interior combines large screens with physical controls
The interior follows a more conventional approach than the one found in Volkswagen’s first electric vehicles. The dashboard combines a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 12.9-inch multimedia display.
The brand has retained physical controls for important functions, including buttons on the steering wheel and controls in the central area of the dashboard. The decision addresses one of the main criticisms directed at previous ID. models, which concentrated several operations on touch-sensitive surfaces.
One of the unusual features is a display mode inspired by the first Volkswagen Golf. When activated, the digital instrument panel reproduces the style of the 1980s model’s instruments, adapting the tachometer to show the electric system’s energy consumption and power delivery.
Fabric trim on the dashboard and other surfaces helps create a less basic appearance, especially considering the vehicle’s entry-level positioning.
Features normally found in more expensive cars
Depending on the version, the ID. Cross may receive technologies that are still uncommon among compact electric SUVs.
Connected Travel Assist uses information obtained through the internet and can recognize traffic lights. Within the system’s operating limitations, the feature can reduce the vehicle’s speed and bring it to a stop at a red light.
The package may also include 360-degree cameras and a system capable of performing parking maneuvers automatically. Some operations can be controlled through a smartphone, allowing the car to be parked remotely in narrow spaces.
Another new feature is one-pedal driving, which increases energy regeneration when the driver lifts off the accelerator.
On the 211 hp version, Volkswagen will offer optional DCC adaptive suspension, capable of continuously adjusting the operation of the shock absorbers according to the road surface and driving mode.
Versions and equipment
The lineup will consist of Trend, Life and Style configurations. The entry-level Trend version will have a 116 hp motor, a 37 kWh battery and a price of €27,995 in Germany.
The mid-range Life version adds features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control and a reversing camera.
The Style version includes IQ.Light matrix headlights, taillights with a three-dimensional effect, illuminated logos, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a keyless entry system.
Optional equipment includes a 425-watt Harman Kardon sound system with ten speakers, electrically adjustable front seats with pneumatic massage, memory settings for the driver’s seat and a panoramic roof.
Power for external equipment
The ID. Cross will also have a V2L function, short for “vehicle-to-load.” The technology allows the car’s battery to be used to power external equipment with an output of up to 3.6 kW.
With an adapter connected to the charging port, the owner will be able to supply power to electric bicycles, tools, camping equipment and small appliances.
In versions equipped with the 52 kWh battery, the SUV will be able to tow up to 1,200 kilograms. The tow hitch supports a vertical load of 75 kilograms, enough for installing bicycle carriers.
Competitive price, but fully equipped versions cost more
The announced price of €27,995 places the ID. Cross among Volkswagen’s most affordable electric vehicles, but it applies to the basic configuration, which will arrive on the market at a later date.
At the start of sales, German customers will find the Life and Style versions with the 211 hp motor and 52 kWh battery, offered from €36,525.
The strategy allows Volkswagen to advertise a competitive entry price while beginning deliveries with higher-value configurations. Even so, the combination of interior space, a range close to 430 kilometers and features usually found in higher segments could make the ID. Cross one of the most important products in the manufacturer’s new electric phase.
Volkswagen has not yet announced when the SUV will be sold in Brazil. Should it be launched in the country, the model is expected to compete with vehicles such as the Volvo EX30, BYD Yuan Pro, Peugeot e-2008 and other compact electric SUVs.
Photos: Volkswagen. This content was created with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
