Not-for-Oz Volkswagen ID.5 EV unveiled

VOLKSWAGEN has taken the wraps off its ID.5 electric coupe-SUV in Europe this week, the not-for-Australia model sharing the same MEB modular chassis architecture with its ID.4 SUV sibling and therefore all drivetrain options and related equipment.

Topped by a sporty GTX variant, Volkswagen says the battery-electric ID.5 offers 12mm less interior headroom than its derivative model, yet has more cargo space thanks to its longer body (549 litres versus 543 litres in the ID.4). The ID.5 measures 4599mm in length or 4582mm in GTX guise, and rides on a 2766mm wheelbase.

The sloping roofline of the ID.5 sees a spoiler integrated into the top of the tailgate as well as a new, model specific front-end design. LED lighting is standard front and rear, as are safety features including semi-autonomous Travel Assist cruise control and self-parking.

“The ID.5 is electric, sporty, and elegant. Our premium SUV coupe with all-electric drive marks another milestone in our Accelerate strategy. It offers locally carbon-neutral driving enjoyment for a discerning customer group. We are breaking into a completely new market segment with this model,” Volkswagen CEO Ralf Brandstatter said.

Inside, the model is much the same as the ID.4 with a 12.0-inch infotainment array, digital instrument panel, and, on GTX models, model-specific badging, red trim accents, contrasting stitch work and sports seats.

The ID.5 is offered with a single 128kW electric motor in base form which drives the rear wheels and offers a 0-100km/h time of 10.4 seconds. 

Mid-tier variants receive the same driveline format but with 150kW of power and an associated acceleration time of 8.4 seconds. Power is sourced from a 77kWh lithium-ion battery which provides up to 520km driving range (WLTP).

The range-topping ID.5 GTX meanwhile scores all-wheel drive courtesy of an electric motor front and rear. Combined system output is rated at 220kW enabling a 0-100km/h acceleration time of just 6.3 seconds. The added power means range falls slightly to 480km (WLTP).

The ID.5 shares the same 135kW DC charging capacity as the donor model, which VW says will allow it to be charged to 80 per cent within 30 minutes. An 11kW AC home charger is included as standard.

Volkswagen says that by 2030, at least 70 per cent of its European unit sales are expected to come from electric-only vehicles, a figure it places at more than one million cars. 

In North American and Chinese markets, it is aiming for 50 per cent coverage, the brand saying it will launch at least one new electric model to the market each year for a CO2 emissions reduction of approximately 40 per cent (by 2030).

Volkswagen plans to be carbon-neutral by 2050.