Volkswagen Korea will officially launch the enhanced 2023 ID.4 in early June, significantly improving its market appeal with increased driving range and better energy efficiency.

The ID.4, which was launched in September last year, is Volkswagen’s first electric vehicle and the brand’s first fully electric SUV model, based on the Volkswagen-exclusive MEB platform. Within two weeks of its release, the initial stock sold out, making it the top-selling imported electric vehicle, and it garnered significant popularity by winning two awards at prestigious car of the year ceremonies in Korea.

With the upcoming launch of the 2023 ID.4, improvements include a longer driving range, better energy consumption efficiency, and the addition of new trims, enhancing its overall market competitiveness.

The 2023 ID.4 boasts a maximum driving range of 440 km on a single charge under combined conditions, an increase of 35 km compared to the previous 405 km. The urban driving range has also seen a substantial increase, now at 484 km. Additionally, the government-certified energy efficiency has improved from 4.7 km/kWh to 5.1 km/kWh, enhancing its energy efficiency significantly.

To cater to cost-conscious customers, a new trim, the ‘ID.4 Pro Lite,’ has been added, which maintains essential safety and convenience features while offering competitive pricing.

The 2023 ID.4 is powered by a robust and efficient PSM (Permanently excited Synchronous Motor) drivetrain and an 82 kWh high-voltage battery, delivering an impressive power output of 150 kW (204 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 31.6 kg·m (310 Nm).

It supports fast charging with a maximum capacity of 135 kW and a slow charging system of 11 kW, allowing about 36 minutes to charge the battery from 5% to 80% at maximum fast charging speed.

In terms of space utilization, the ID.4 boasts top-notch capabilities compared to its peers. The standard trunk capacity is 543L, which can expand to 1,575L when the rear seats are folded down. The MEB platform allows for short overhangs and a long wheelbase, providing a spacious and comfortable interior compared to competing models.

Various safety and convenience features are included to elevate the driving experience. Volkswagen’s advanced driver assistance system, ‘IQ. Drive,’ comes as standard, while the ID.4 Pro features an interactive lighting system, ‘IQ. Light – LED Matrix Headlamps,’ and the ID.4 Pro Lite is equipped with ‘LED Headlamps.’

Additionally, a three-zone Climatronic air conditioning system allows for individual temperature settings, and a panoramic glass roof enhances the open feeling of the interior, catering to preferences of Korean customers.

The estimated pricing for the 2023 ID.4 is KRW 59.9 million for the ID.4 Pro and KRW 56.9 million for the ID.4 Pro Lite (including VAT after tax benefits). With applicable EV purchase incentives, the ID.4 can be bought at a price range of approximately KRW 40 million to low KRW 50 million (the process for EV purchase subsidies is underway).

Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr