Volkswagen ID.7: A Comprehensive Review of VW's Best EV Yet

The Volkswagen ID.7 is being hailed as the brand’s most impressive EV, thanks in part to its spacious cabin and substantial boot space, making it an ideal choice for families and long-distance travelers. The ID.7 comes in two body styles: a hatchback and a Tourer estate, with the former being the focus of this review. With a starting price of over £51,000, the ID.7 is aligned more with the Tesla Model S in terms of size, though it competes directly with the Tesla Model 3 in the electric vehicle market. One of the standout features of the ID.7 is its impressive range and efficiency. The Pro S variant, equipped with an 86kWh battery, boasts a range of up to 437 miles, while the entry-level Pro offers a 77kWh battery with a range of up to 383 miles. Despite the higher price point compared to some competitors, the ID.7's range and practical design make it a compelling option for those seeking a family-friendly EV.

In terms of driving experience, the ID.7 prioritizes comfort and refinement over sporty handling. Its electric motor delivers 282bhp, allowing for a smooth and quiet ride, particularly in urban settings and on motorways. While the ID.7 may not match the agility of a BMW i4 or a Tesla Model 3, it compensates with an exceptionally comfortable ride, aided by features like adaptive suspension. The GTX model, with its dual-motor setup, provides a boost in performance, achieving 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds. However, the ID.7's regenerative braking system could benefit from more adjustability, as it does not offer the one-pedal driving experience seen in some rivals. Despite its size, the ID.7 is designed to handle everyday driving scenarios with ease, thanks to its 360-degree camera system and parking sensors.

The ID.7's interior showcases significant improvements over Volkswagen’s earlier EV models. With a focus on quality and functionality, the cabin features high-quality materials and an intuitive layout. A 15-inch central display dominates the dashboard, offering responsive controls for navigation and media. However, some functions are buried in sub-menus, which may detract from the user experience. The ID.7's infotainment system includes standard features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although the touch-sensitive climate controls might not be as user-friendly as traditional physical buttons.

A major strength of the ID.7 is its practicality. The hatchback design allows for a generous 532 liters of boot space, expandable to 1,586 liters with the rear seats folded down. This makes the ID.7 well-suited for family trips and transporting large items. Additionally, the vehicle's spacious interior ensures ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, contributing to a comfortable travel experience. The inclusion of ISOFIX mounts for child seats further enhances its family-friendly appeal.

When it comes to safety, the ID.7 does not disappoint. It received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP, with advanced safety features including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. These features, combined with a robust build and extensive safety technology, make the ID.7 a reliable choice for safety-conscious drivers. Volkswagen has also improved the warranty offerings, providing a three-year/60,000-mile standard warranty along with an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.

Overall, the Volkswagen ID.7 stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to electrification and innovation. While it faces stiff competition from models like the Tesla Model 3, the ID.7's combination of range, practicality, and comfort makes it a standout in the EV market. It's particularly appealing for families and long-distance drivers who prioritize space and a quiet, refined driving experience. Though it may not be the cheapest option available, the ID.7's features and build quality justify its premium price point.