Volkswagen’s ID electric car range, which finally arrived in New Zealand this year, is receiving mixed reviews, particularly in relation to the ID.5 model. Despite the success of the ID.3 in Europe, VW has chosen to focus on introducing the larger ID.4 and ID.5 to the New Zealand market. However, the ID.5 falls short in several areas compared to its competitors.
Priced at $79,990, the ID.5 Pro is $10,000 more expensive than its direct rival, the Tesla Model Y. It also faces tough competition from the Polestar 2 and Kia EV6, both offering similar prices and impressive features. Unfortunately, the ID.5 lacks the same level of excitement and performance. Acceleration is sluggish, and its handling is mediocre at best. VW seems to have compromised on functionality, omitting luxury features like electric seats and self-steering capabilities that are standard in its competitors.
The interior of the ID.5 is spacious and functional, but the design of the driver information screen leaves much to be desired. The screen is split, with driving details cramped on one side, making it difficult to read important information such as the speed setting for adaptive cruise control. The selection dial for drive modes is also oddly placed behind the steering wheel. In addition, the ID.5 is marred by a few rattles, indicating potential quality issues.
Despite these drawbacks, the ID.5 offers a maximum range of 530 kilometers, thanks to its 77kWh battery. It also has respectable power and torque figures, with 150kW and 310Nm respectively. Charging time on a supercharger is approximately 40 minutes to reach 80%. For those willing to spend more, the ID.5 Pro+ variant offers additional features such as 20-inch wheels, intelligent LED lights, power-adjusted seats, and an upgraded sound system.
However, with the Tesla Model Y Performance available at a similar price and offering superior performance, VW may struggle to compete. It’s worth noting that Tesla has a strong presence in the New Zealand market, with 26% of all-electric cars being supplied by the company.
VW needs to step up its game to provide more competitive offerings in the electric vehicle market. Although the ID.5 is a fine car, there are better options available at the same price or even for less. It remains to be seen if VW can make a stronger impact with future models in the ID range.
