Video Summary
The Volkswagen ID.7 is trying to compete with other luxury electric saloons like the BMW i5 and Mercedes EQE.The Pro Match configuration starts at roughly £51,500, and the launch edition model starts at around £55,500. The Pro S and GTX variants are coming later.
The tested model, the Pro Match, has a 77kWh net or 82kWh gross battery pack. It has a WLTP claim of 384 miles. The GTX has the same battery pack, and the Pro S will have a larger 86kWh net or 91kWh gross battery pack, estimating about 435 miles of range. All the models won't come with a heat pump as standard, but as an additional option for £1,000.
The tested range for mixed driving was 260–280 miles. The ID.7 only has a single regenerative braking mode with no customization options and doesn't have one-pedal driving.
The CCS port accepts up to 175kW for both models, and on the Pro S model, it will be up to 200kW. Charging from 5% to 80% takes about 28 minutes. All vehicles come standard with an 11kW on-board charger. The 22kW on-board charger is not an option.
The Pro Match has a rear-axle motor, giving it a rear-wheel drive configuration, and outputs 210kW or 282hp and 545Nm of torque. The 0-20mph time is 1.72s, 0-30mph is 2.57s, and 0-60mph is 5.86s. The 50-70mph acceleration time is 2.95s at 0.54g. Top speed is 112mph.
Handling can’t compete with sportier alternatives like the BMW i4 or i5, but it is engaging with rear-wheel drive and a sport mode available. An adaptive chassis control, or DCC, will enhance handling, but as a £3,270 option is only available within a pack.
Low cabin noise is a plus with an acoustically-treated windshield. There is a nine-speaker audio system standard, upgradable to a Harmon Kardon with 700W of total output. Technology includes ambient lighting with 30 colors, a redesigned and intuitive 15-inch infotainment system, plus Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Turn-by-turn navigation feeds through to the instrument cluster and head-up display.
The instrument cluster is a digital letterbox style, and the head-up display has augmented reality. Storage space includes the wireless charger, two USB-C ports, two cupholders, a large storage area within the armrest, and front and rear door bins. The boot provides 532 liters with the rear seats up and 1,586 liters with seats down, with an underfloor compartment for the charging cables. There is no frunk. The Pro model tested scored five out of five stars in Euro NCAP testing. All versions will feature lane assist, speed warning, and front assist, among other aids.
The VW ID.7 delivers on its promise. However, some smaller electric saloons cost less, there is no one-pedal option and its interior does not feel as high quality as some competitors.
