Volkswagen ID. Cross Launches with Premium Features

Volkswagen has unveiled its latest addition to the electric vehicle lineup, the all-new ID. Cross. This compact SUV combines superior design elements, advanced technologies, and the promise of high-quality driving experiences at a starting price of €27,995. As Volkswagen moves forward with its electrification strategy, the ID. Cross stands out by offering luxury-class features in a compact format, making it a notable contender in the electric SUV segment.

The ID. Cross is designed with a timeless elegance that exudes quality and strength. Measuring 4,153 mm in length, 1,581 mm in height, and 1,794 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,601 mm, it offers a spacious interior for its class. The design language of the ID. Cross, referred to as "Pure Positive," emphasizes visual stability with friendly aesthetics, characterized by its strong C-pillar and distinctive light signatures enhanced by optional IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlamps and 3D LED rear lights.

Inside, the ID. Cross offers a high-quality cabin crafted with attention to detail. The interior is designed to create a feel-good atmosphere, featuring fabric-covered surfaces, comfortable seating, and an optional premium sound system. The Innovision infotainment system, with its intuitive operation, ensures a modern, connected driving experience. The digital cockpit displays key driving information, and, with a touch of retro flair, can mimic the layout of a classic Golf I dashboard.

Performance and Range

The ID. Cross is built on Volkswagen's MEB+ platform and is powered by the new APP290 electric motor, available in three output levels: 85 kW (116 PS), 99 kW (135 PS), and 155 kW (211 PS). Customers can choose between two battery sizes, 37 kWh and 52 kWh net, offering a WLTP range of up to 427 kilometers, ensuring suitability for both everyday and long-distance travel.

Charging is efficient and quick, with the ID. Cross supporting DC fast charging. The smaller battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in approximately 23 minutes at up to 90 kW, while the larger 52 kWh battery can achieve the same charge in about 24 minutes at 105 kW. These capabilities highlight Volkswagen's commitment to reducing charging times and enhancing user convenience.

Advanced Technologies

Volkswagen has equipped the ID. Cross with technologies typically found in higher vehicle classes. It includes the latest version of Travel Assist, now termed Connected Travel Assist, which uses online data to respond to various driving conditions, including traffic light recognition—a first in this price range. This feature can automatically bring the vehicle to a halt at red lights, enhancing safety and convenience.

The ID. Cross also introduces One Pedal Driving, which simplifies driving in stop-and-go traffic by allowing the driver to decelerate the vehicle by simply easing off the accelerator. Additionally, the vehicle offers advanced parking aids, including Park Assist Pro, which facilitates remote parking via a smartphone app, providing users with greater flexibility and ease of use.

Trim Levels and Customization

The ID. Cross is available in several trim levels, starting with the Trend, which includes standard DC fast-charging capabilities. For those seeking enhanced comfort, the Life and Style trims offer additional features. The Life trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, and a rear-view camera, while the Style trim adds luxury touches like IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlamps, heated seats, and a panoramic roof.

Volkswagen also offers a range of optional extras, such as a Harman Kardon sound system and a pneumatic massage function for the front seats, which are not available in competing models. These extras allow buyers to customize their ID. Cross to suit their preferences, providing a luxury experience in a compact SUV.

Versatility and Practicality

The ID. Cross is designed with practicality in mind, offering a generous 475 liters of boot space, with additional storage available in a small front trunk (frunk) that can hold 25 liters. This makes the ID. Cross suitable for various lifestyle needs, from family outings to longer trips. The vehicle-to-load feature further enhances its versatility, allowing users to charge external devices, such as e-bikes, directly from the vehicle.

Moreover, the ID. Cross is equipped to tow trailers up to 1,200 kg, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and need to transport equipment or small caravans.

With sales starting in Germany alongside its world premiere, the ID. Cross is available for order in the Life and Style trims with the 155 kW motor and 52 kWh battery, priced from €36,525. The entry-level Trend version, featuring an 85 kW motor and a 37 kWh battery, will soon follow, starting at €27,995. This pricing strategy positions the ID. Cross as an accessible yet premium choice within the compact SUV market.

Volkswagen's launch of the ID. Cross marks a significant step in the brand's evolution towards sustainable mobility, offering a blend of performance, technology, and practicality. As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, the ID. Cross represents Volkswagen's commitment to providing innovative and affordable electric vehicles.