The Volkswagen ID.7 marks an important step in the evolution of the German automaker’s electric vehicles. Designed to compete with high-end models while offering impressive range, this nearly 5-meter-long sedan aims to be the ideal car for long-distance travelers. We had the opportunity to test the version of the ID.7 with a claimed range of 600 km and put its comfort, performance, and charging capabilities to the test. Here’s our detailed review of this large electric sedan.
Dimensions and Exterior Design: Sobriety and Aerodynamics
With a length of 4.96 meters and a width of 1.86 meters, the ID.7 sits between the Tesla Model 3 and Model S. At 1.54 meters high, it is one of the lowest vehicles in the ID lineup, giving it an airy and modern profile. The aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient of 0.23, is one of its strengths. Although efficient, its design lacks character and boldness. It remains very classic, with lines that will likely appeal to a conservative clientele but may lack passion for others. The front and rear feature familiar lighting elements from the ID family, but the car doesn’t exude strong personality.
Interior Design and Ergonomics: Comfort, But Some Shortcomings
Inside, the ID.7 offers generous space, typical of a large sedan. The materials are of good quality, but there’s a slight decline compared to the premium standards Volkswagen used to offer. The front seats are comfortable, climate-controlled, and provide good support. Optional ErgoActive and ErgoPremium massaging seats are available, certified by the AGR (German Association for Back Health), providing executive-level comfort.
However, the rear passengers, while benefiting from ample space, get a rigid central seat. The trunk, though advertised as 532 liters with a hatchback, doesn’t seem as vast as one might expect from a car of this size. The double floor and a small compartment for charging cables provide practical solutions, but Tesla fans may miss the “frunk” at the front.
As for ergonomics, Volkswagen opts for a minimalist design with haptic controls on the steering wheel and sliders for temperature and volume. Unfortunately, these controls aren’t particularly intuitive, and the voice command system, which is supposed to understand natural phrases, still leaves much to be desired. The 15-inch infotainment screen is well-defined and responsive, but the interface remains somewhat confusing with multiple menus and submenus.
Motorization and Range: Solid Performance for Long Trips
The Volkswagen ID.7 is equipped with a 286 hp electric motor, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds. While this performance is far from exceptional for a car in this category, it’s more than enough for daily and highway use. The car, equipped with a 77 kWh battery, offers impressive range. In real-world conditions, we achieved 588 km on a mixed route and around 350 to 400 km on the highway at 130 km/h, placing the ID.7 among the most enduring electric vehicles on the market.
The ID.7 supports rapid charging at 170 kW, and Volkswagen claims a 28-minute charging time from 20 to 80%. We found the reality to be even more favorable, with quick charging times. A version with an upgraded 86 kWh battery will be available in 2024, extending the range to 700 km.
Driving: Good Performance, But Not Thrilling
Driving the ID.7 is a mix of comfort and sobriety. In the city, the car’s imposing dimensions require some adjustment, but the tight turning radius and light steering make it manageable. On the highway, comfort is notable, but on winding roads, the ID.7 shows its limits. Its 2,172 kg weight affects its agility, and the steering consistency could be improved. The braking, while adequate, lacks initial bite, which might unsettle some drivers.
That being said, for a car of this size, the ID.7 is relatively well-balanced, although it lacks character in terms of driving excitement. It’s not a thrilling car to drive, but it does the job with satisfactory comfort on long trips and overall efficiency that will appeal to those prioritizing tranquility over raw performance.
Price and Competition: An Expensive Yet Complete Choice
The starting price for the ID.7 is €62,650, which places it in the premium vehicle category, though still somewhat more affordable than some of its direct rivals. It primarily competes with the Hyundai Ioniq 6, which offers similar performance for a lower starting price, though with a slightly smaller size. On the premium side, the Mercedes EQE and BMW i5 are positioned in a similar segment, with starting prices of €69,900 and €76,200, respectively.
Despite its high price, the ID.7 comes with a generous standard equipment list: augmented reality head-up display, semi-autonomous driving, 360-degree camera, and more. Options, such as the adaptive suspension or heat pump, are additional but still make the car well-equipped from the base version.
Conclusion: The Pros and Cons of the Volkswagen ID.7
Pros:
- Impressive range, ideal for long trips
- Comfort on board with massaging seats and good customization options
- Generous standard equipment, including semi-autonomous driving
- Fast charging performance and optimized battery management
Cons:
- Design is too sober and lacks personality
- Limited comfort at low speeds in urban areas
- Ergonomics of some controls are imperfect
- High starting price for this category
In summary, the Volkswagen ID.7 is an electric sedan that perfectly fulfills its role as a long-distance cruiser. While it may not excite with its design or driving sensations, it impresses with its range and comfort on long journeys. Although expensive, it offers a well-rounded package for drivers looking for a spacious, reliable, and energy-efficient vehicle.
