Volkswagen has unveiled the all-electric VW ID.4 GTX, the first ID model in a new performance series for electromobility.
In January, Volkswagen officially confirmed for the first time it would present a VW ID.4 GTX. On Wednesday in Berlin it finally unveiled the “spectacular” vehicle in an event that was immersed in “mixed reality” using a 3D gaming graphics system.
GTX is to Volkswagen’s all-electric ID series what the GTI is to its petrol models, and GTD to its diesel models, and GTE for hybrid models. All stand for more performance, which in the case of the all-electric GTX series means a dual electric motor drivetrain.
“Electric driving is simply great fun – and with the ID.4 GTX we are adding a new dimension of sportiness and dynamics,” said Volkswagen CEO Ralf Brandstätter.
“The most emotional member of the ID. family to date shows that electric mobility and top sporty performance are not mutually exclusive.”
The VW ID.4 GTX will be the first model in the series and will enter the market with a maximum power output of 220kW – 150kW on the rear axle and a smaller 70kW motor on the front axle.
This gives it acceleration from a standing start to 100km/hr in 6.2 seconds – but we’ve got to be honest, that’s pretty lacklustre considering the Tesla Model 3 SR+ with a single rear motor can do it in 5.6 seconds.
The ID.4 GTX will only be available with a large 77kWh battery offering a range of 480 km according to the WLTP standard. Charging is done with up to 125 kW on the fast charger and 11 kW (AC).
Visually, the ID.4 GTX has a slightly modified front with black painted ventilation grilles, black roof and rear spoilers and a modified light signature. LED matrix headlights and LED rear lights in 3D design are also part of the GTX variants. In the interior, there are typical GT insignia such as red contrasting stitching. The GTX logo is emblazoned on the steering wheel, seats and door sills.
The standard equipment of the ID.4 GTX includes a driving profile selection with five modes, a heated steering wheel and seat covers made from non-animal materials.
Optionally, there is a sports package with progressive steering and adaptive chassis control, EGR seats and various comfort packages, including a panoramic glass roof, heated front seats and automatic air conditioning. A trailer coupling can also be ordered, and in Germany, it is rated for 1.2 tonnes.
Incidentally, the VW ID.4 GTX can sprint from 0 to 100 km/hr in 6.2 seconds and from 0 to 60 km / h in 3.2 seconds, according to Volkswagen. To ensure that consumption is not too high, the front electric motor is only activated here when required.
Inside, it does not differ greatly from the VW ID.4, such as the same 12-inch touchscreen display in the centre of the dash. Of course, there are also some adjustments and new sports seats on which are adorned with GTX lettering.
The basic version of the VW ID.4 GTX is priced from 50,415 euros ($A78,404 converted), and is the most expensive ID model so far.
Don’t expect it to arrive anytime soon in Australia, though – Volkswagen has made it clear that it won’t be bringing any electric cars here until at least 2023 unless there is more support from the federal government for EVs.
Bridie Schmidt is lead reporter for The Driven, sister site of Renew Economy. She has been writing about electric vehicles since 2018, and has a keen interest in the role that zero-emissions transport has to play in sustainability. She has participated in podcasts such as Download This Show with Marc Fennell and Shirtloads of Science with Karl Kruszelnicki and is co-organiser of the Northern Rivers Electric Vehicle Forum. Bridie also owns a Tesla Model 3 and has it available for hire on evee.com.au.
