In a world where luxury and sustainability are no longer opposing forces but perfect companions, the VW ID.4 drives onto South Africa’s roads as a symbol of what the future holds. More than just an SUV, the ID.4 is Volkswagen’s bold statement of how innovation, style, and responsibility can merge to create something extraordinary. I was fortunate to experience this vehicle firsthand, courtesy of VW South Africa (VWSA), and it left me inspired by what lies ahead for South African drivers.
Though not yet available for sale in South Africa, VWSA is rolling out a test fleet, allowing motoring journalists and select fleet customers a glimpse into the future. Come 2026, traditional retail offers will be available, as well as bespoke leasing options via VW’s dealer network, giving South Africans the opportunity to embrace this pioneering electric vehicle (EV).
The Future in Motion
The test vehicle, VW ID.4 Pro, is a fully electric SUV that breaks conventions and sets a new standard for urban mobility. Its sleek and aerodynamic design captures attention instantly, not only for its beauty but for the story it tells — a story of luxury transformed by progress. This isn’t just a car; it’s a movement towards a greener future, where elegance and eco-consciousness are no longer separate ideals.
As you approach the ID.4 Pro, its design speaks volumes. With its flowing lines and sharply defined contours, it balances charisma with practicality. The LED headlights, available in an IQ.Light LED matrix option and 3D LED taillights give it a futuristic edge, while its compact yet commanding frame invites you into a driving experience that’s equal parts exciting and efficient.
Performance Meets Purpose
Beneath its striking exterior, the VW ID.4 Pro is all about redefining performance in the electric age. Built on Volkswagen’s modular electric drive platform, this SUV provides exceptional road-holding thanks to its low centre of gravity. The ID.4 Pro model, powered by a rear electric motor and a 77kWh battery, delivers 150kW of smooth propulsion and an impressive range of up to 530 kilometres on a single charge.
Driving the ID.4 Pro felt like a glimpse into a new world of motoring – silent, swift, and sustainable. Its third-generation ID. software, combined with intuitive systems, ensures that you’re always in control while enjoying a luxurious, smooth ride. This is not just an electric SUV; it’s a testament to how far technology has come, and how it’s reshaping our experience on the road.
A Minimalist Masterpiece
Step inside the ID.4 Pro and you’re greeted by an interior that is as thoughtful as it is futuristic. The minimalist design evokes the same feel as the Volvo EX30 or BMW i3, with a spacious, premium cabin that’s both functional and beautiful. I loved the simple, clean lines and the use of animal-free materials for the seat covers reflects Volkswagen’s commitment to sustainability. The extensive background lighting adds a touch of warmth, enhancing the already cosy feel of the interior.
The ID.4 Pro also offers advanced tech features like a 12-inch touch display, a touch multifunction steering wheel, and an augmented reality head-up display. Voice control, powered by cloud-based technology, ensures you stay connected and in command, with every interaction feeling effortless and intuitive.
Leading the Charge
The VW ID.4 Pro is more than just another model in Volkswagen’s lineup – it’s a crucial part of the brand’s electric future. Manufactured at their Zwickau and Emden plants, the ID.4 Pro joins the ranks of the ID.3, ID.5, ID.Buzz, and ID.7 in the company’s ACCELERATE strategy. By 2030, VW aims for 70 per cent of its European sales to come from electric vehicles, with similar goals for the U.S. and China. With over 580 000 ID. models already delivered globally, Volkswagen is leading the charge toward a more sustainable automotive landscape.
A Glimpse into South Africa’s Electric Future
As I drove the ID.4 Pro, I couldn’t help but feel hopeful for South Africa’s transition to electric mobility. The ID.4, with its excellent range, smooth driving experience, and decent technology, is perfectly positioned to take on the EV market here. However, questions remain about how it will be priced and whether the 2026 version sold locally will still be one with the latest technology by then. Rivals such as the BMW iX1, Volvo EX30, Mercedes-Benz EQA and Lexus NX 350h SE will offer stiff competition, but the ID.4’s unique blend of practicality and innovation gives it an undeniable edge.
With the recent announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa about incentivising EV buyers in South Africa, the timing couldn’t be better. The VW ID.4, when it finally arrives, will not only bring a new driving experience to South Africans but also represent a pivotal moment in our shift toward a greener, more sustainable future.
