2025 Volkswagen ID.7 revolutionizes electric vehicles

The 2025 Volkswagen ID.7 is a car that challenges the traditional car versus crossover debate. As the latest addition to VW's ID family of electric vehicles, it combines the classic touring car design with modern electric technology. With features like a head-up display, optional massaging seats, and a sleek Audi-inspired fastback style, the ID.7 is positioning Volkswagen in the premium segment.

While driving the ID.7 through the hills of southern France, it becomes clear that VW has big plans for this model. The question remains, how much of it will make its way to the North American market? The ID.7 is set to arrive in the U.S. in the second half of 2024, offering both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive powertrains with a 77-kwh usable battery pack. However, VW has not confirmed whether the larger 85-kwh battery pack available in Europe will be offered in the U.S.

Pricing and trim options for the ID.7 are yet to be announced, and our driving impressions are limited to the rear-wheel-drive model. It's worth noting that the ID.7 will be imported from Germany and not manufactured alongside the ID.4 in Tennessee, meaning it won't qualify for the federal EV tax credit.

The ID.7's design is understated yet efficient. Its sleek shape, with a chrome-like garnish accentuating the roofline, gives it a fastback aesthetic. The hatch offers ample cargo space, resembling a crossover rather than a traditional trunk. The front of the car features a lower grille, side air intakes, and thin LED headlights that seamlessly connect to the wrap-around LED taillights.

Efficiency is a key aspect of the ID.7's design, boasting a low 0.23 coefficient of drag, similar to the Tesla Model 3. Despite its size, measuring 195.3 inches long with a 117.0-inch wheelbase, the ID.7 is the lowest model in VW's ID lineup. However, it is taller than the Arteon due to the flat battery pack that occupies vertical space in the floor.

Under the hood, the ID.7 features a new motor and drive unit that builds upon the system used in the ID.4. With more windings and stronger magnets, the ID.7 delivers a rating of 210 kw, 282 hp, and 429 lb-ft of torque. This makes it more spirited than the ID.4, although it doesn't have the instant acceleration of other torque-rich electric vehicles. The ID.7 can go from 0-62 mph in 6.5 seconds.

The ID.7 offers four drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. These modes subtly adjust the accelerator response, steering, and adaptive dampers. While there is no one-pedal driving, the ID.7 features regenerative braking controlled by a column stalk setting.

When it comes to comfort and creature features, the ID.7 shines. The cabin is designed for comfort, with standard heated power front seats and optional ergoActive bucket seats with massagers. The infotainment system has been improved compared to the ID.4, with larger icons, a cleaner layout, and a more logical menu structure. Voice commands can be used to control the climate, with specific commands for warming hands or feet.

The ID.7's hatchback design provides versatility, with a spacious cabin and ample cargo space. The rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area, and there are additional storage cubbies beneath the floor. The ID.7 offers a range of approximately 350 miles with the single-motor powertrain, making it one of the most efficient electric cars on the market.

While the ID.7 doesn't have bidirectional charging capabilities and can't charge as fast as some competitors, it still offers convenient charging options. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80% in 28 minutes on a DC fast charger, and it also has an onboard charger for home charging.

As electric crossovers dominate the market, the ID.7 serves as a reminder that a sedan with a hatch can be a comfortable and efficient option. With its sleek design, impressive range, and luxurious features, the ID.7 is set to make a statement in the electric vehicle market.