Volkswagen ID.4 Pure

Overview

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 Pure represents an entry point into VW's all-electric SUV lineup, primarily offered in European markets. It aims to deliver core EV benefits like smooth, quiet driving and a practical, family-friendly package without breaking the bank. While this specific "Pure" trim with its 52 kWh battery wasn't officially sold stateside, it showcases VW's approach to a more accessible electric option. Think of it as the no-frills sibling in the ID.4 family, focusing on essentials. US pricing for this EU-spec trim isn't available, but its ethos would target budget-conscious EV adopters.

What's New for 2023?

For the 2023 model year, the broader ID.4 lineup saw some neat tweaks, particularly for US-built models, which included a new entry-level "Standard" trim featuring a slightly larger 62 kWh battery than this Euro-spec "Pure." Across the range, VW rolled out plusher interior materials and made the larger 12-inch infotainment screen standard on US models. While the ID.4 Pure itself concluded production in 2023, these general enhancements signaled VW's commitment to refining its popular electric SUV, even if this specific shorter-range variant wasn't destined for American showrooms.

Design & Exterior

The ID.4 Pure rocks that familiar, friendly VW electric SUV look – clean lines, a smooth front fascia, and a generally modern, approachable vibe. As the entry-level offering, you'd expect simpler styling cues, likely with standard LED headlights and perhaps more modest alloy wheel designs compared to its pricier siblings. Dimensionally, it measures up at a practical 180.5 inches long, 72.9 inches wide (mirrors folded, we presume!), and 64.6 inches tall. It’s a tidy package that’s instantly recognizable as part of the ID. family, just a bit more understated.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Inside, the ID.4 Pure offers a typically VW minimalist and airy cabin, though materials would align with its entry-level position. Passenger space is decent for a compact SUV, seating five comfortably. You get a generous 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, expanding to a whopping 64.2 cubic feet with the rear seats tumbled down – pretty handy! No frunk on this one, though. Tech-wise, expect VW's digital cockpit and a central touchscreen (likely 10-inch for this spec), with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to keep you connected.

Performance & Driving Experience

Under the skin, the ID.4 Pure packs a single Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) driving the rear wheels, good for 109 kW (around 146 hp) and 162 lb-ft of torque. Don't expect neck-snapping launches; 0-60 mph takes a leisurely 10.6 seconds. Top speed is a sensible 99 mph. The driving experience is geared more towards smooth, efficient urban cruising and comfortable commuting rather than outright thrills. It’s quiet, easy to drive, and offers selectable regenerative braking modes to help claw back some energy.

Range, Battery & Charging

The ID.4 Pure is fitted with a 52 kWh usable battery pack, translating to a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of around 190 miles – enough for daily duties and some. Energy consumption is a respectable 3.65 mi/kWh. For charging, it supports up to 7.2 kW AC charging, meaning a full top-up at home would take about 8 hours. When you hit a DC fast charger (using a US-standard CCS Type 1 port), it can guzzle electrons at up to 100 kW, taking you from 10-80% in roughly 30-35 minutes.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

While this specific EU-market "Pure" trim wasn't rated by NHTSA, the ID.4 platform generally scores well, achieving a 5-star rating from Euro NCAP and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards for US versions in certain years. Volkswagen typically equips its ID.4s generously. Even this entry model would likely include essentials from VW's IQ.DRIVE suite, such as Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Traffic Alert, and Lane Keeping Assist. Adaptive Cruise Control might also be standard, making it a safe bet.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

If the ID.4 Pure were sold in the US, it would likely benefit from Volkswagen's standard EV warranty: a 4-year/50,000-mile basic limited warranty and an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for the high-voltage battery, guaranteeing at least 70% capacity. Powertrain components are typically covered under the battery warranty. VW's Carefree Coverage often includes a couple of years of complimentary scheduled maintenance (e.g., 2 years/20,000 miles), adding some peace of mind. Overall ID.4 reliability has been generally average for a new EV platform.