Well here it is, the good-looking new ID.5 which has also joined in the range by a slightly more sporty ID.5 GTX with dual-motor all-wheel drive like the ID.4 GTX. Like all ID. models, Volkswagen’s first e-SUV coupé is based on the Volkswagen modular electric drive matrix (MEB) which is proving to be an incredibly versatile and popular platform. This new coupé-type body styled ID.5 has just 12 mm less headroom in the back than the Volkswagen ID.4. At 4599 mm long this e-SUV coupé has lots of road presence and is now available with three engine options. The ID.5 will be powered by an electric engine in the rear whilst the dual-motor all-wheel drive GTX will be powered by an e-motor on the front and rear axles. The long 2766 mm wheelbase gives the interior generous space also and possibly comparable to those of SUVs in a higher price bracket. The boot can swallow 549 litres, and the materials and build of the vehicle look and feel to be of premium quality. Depending on the model choice the comfortable seats are trimmed in various materials and the optional Top Sports seats are have perforated ID logos at the top of the backrests.
Features
Getting back to the looks and the characteristic LED technology, with light strips on the front and rear it unmistakably identifies the ID.5 as a member of the electric VW family. At first glance you might be forgiven for thinking it was an ID.4 but subtle features including the striking bumper, painted door panelling and new roof line set the e-SUV coupé apart from other family members. Like the ID.3 and 4 inside the tech is simple to use and easily navigated from the excellent drivers seating position. The new software generation 3.0 allows for over-the-air updates and activation of additional functions, so that the ID.5 can stay up-to-date for a long time. Innovative assistance systems such as Travel Assist with swarm data allow for an even more relaxed and predictive driving experience. The new optional Park Assist Plus with memory function will take care of personalised parking processes on request making it a very easy car to commute daily in.
Power
Our test car had a 77kWh 204HP motor producing 310Nm of torque with a claimed range of over 500km. Depending on how you drive, this range is more likely going to be mid 400’s on Irish roads but all ID.5 motor types are powered by a large, long-range battery. A low drag coefficient of 0.26 increases efficiency and helps the vehicle preserve range. This is further aided by the integrated spoiler with a wide-opening aerodynamically shaped tailgate. Electric cooling air vents in the front of the vehicle open only when necessary, so as to ensure optimal air flow and maximum efficiency.
Safety
The ID.5 was awarded the top rating of five stars in the renowned Euro NCAP safety test. The examiners rated the all-electric SUV coupé as excellent in all four test criteria in the protection of adult passengers, children and vulnerable road users, as well as in terms of standard assistance systems. As standard, it has an automatic emergency braking (AEB) system that is capable of averting collisions in a range of situations, including when the ID.5 is approaching other cars or turning across the path of an oncoming vehicle. It also helps drivers to avoid pedestrians and cyclists, both to the front and side of the vehicle. With a plethora of safety systems it was no surprise to see it claim five stars just like the ID.3 and 4.
Costs
Prices here in Ireland kick off from €61,295. There are various finance and PCP options available which could put you on the road from €509 per month. Certain offers apply to selected stock only but your local VW dealer will have the most up to date pricing and offers ready for you! Sadly the price puts it just north of the SEAI grant cap of €60k here in Ireland but you can still apply for the home charger grant.
Summary
It’s an interesting one really because with the ID.5, Volkswagen is tapping into an entirely new market segment and most likely paving the way for others to follow. By 2030, at least 70 per cent of Volkswagen’s unit sales in Europe are expected to come from electric-only vehicles and that is equivalent to more than one million vehicles. To date we have yet to drive a bad ID car. The 3, 4 and now the 5 all drive very similar in the sense they are competent on the road, safe and they manage battery power well. They are consistently selling very well here in Ireland and it’s not hard to see why. Volkswagen have stated they will launch at least one new electric vehicle onto the market every year phasing out the combustion powered vehicles. These are no doubt exciting times for the brand and you as a punter taking your pick from the vast array of electric vehicles now available in Ireland. If you would like to learn a little more about this particular ID.5 or indeed to see what it drives like be sure to check out our YouTube video on the link below.
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No grant at this price point.
