Volkswagen ID.5 test drive: exterior design
At first glance, it's hard to tell the difference between the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5. And with good reason: they share the same front end and a number of other features. Fortunately, a closer look at the radiator grille reveals that that of the SUV coupé is a little more aggressivegiving a more dynamic look to the whole. However, the same headlamps are used on all models in the ID range, starting with the ID.3. This is a way of creating a degree of consistency and enabling everyone to recognise the vehicles in the family at a glance. As you'll quickly realise, it's when you look at the rear of the SUV that you realise just how different it is from the ID.4.
Indeed, our test model boasts a coupé SUV silhouette that is instantly recognisable and has been very fashionable for some time now. However, in addition to the sloping rear window and sloping roof, the small roof spoiler gives the whole thing an even sportier look. Contrary to popular belief, our model isn't quite the same size as its little sister, being just a couple of centimetres shorter. Although this is obviously subjective, we like the silhouette of this new arrival in the range, more harmonious and bringing a breath of fresh air. There's no doubt that this variant will appeal to customers, especially as it comes in a range of body colours, all combined with a black roof.
Volkswagen ID.5 test drive: interior and technologies
Enough about the exterior, now it's time to settle in. To be honest, if you've already had the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Volkswagen ID.4, you won't feel out of place, as the two SUVs share the same driving position. Quite simply, everything is exactly the same, which is actually quite logical, because the aim is also to avoid confusing customers. So we're back on our feet in the ID.5, which offers a large, easy-to-read 12-inch screen featuring the Discover Pro Max system. While it looks great, it does take some getting used to and lacks practicality in some areas, particularly when it comes to adjusting the air conditioning.
This is combined with a full, if somewhat small, digital instrument cluster, as well as an augmented reality head-up display, for the very first time in the range. But as well as technology, comfort is also a feature of this Volkswagen electric ID.5, which benefits from a less austere presentation than the rest of the range and pleasant materials. The finish is more than adequate, despite the presence of a few hard plastics. Passengers in the rear are very well seated, benefiting from more than adequate headroom, albeit slightly less than on the ID.4. Finally, the boot volume is about average, at 549 litres. Mind you, the rear bench seat is not removable.
Volkswagen ID.5 test drive: behind the wheel
While three versions are available in the Volkswagen ID.5 range, we have set our sights on the mid-range finish, called Pro Performance and just below the GTX at the top of the range. Very similar to the ID.4 in many respects, and sharing the same MEB platform, our test model nevertheless proved to be quite different in terms of driving dynamics, as we were able to see during our hands-on experience. With 204 bhp and 310 Nm of instant torque, the electric SUV has a technical specification identical to that of the ID.4. Skoda Enyaq iV in its 80 version and offers a certain dynamism, despite its imposing size.
While the GTX trim comes with all-wheel drive, our test car is equipped with front-wheel drive architecture and a single engine. While it's not the most fun-to-drive model on the market, the ID.5 still delivers satisfactory performance and crisp acceleration. The suspension is firmer than that of the ID.4, enough to offer good support when cornering, but still supple enough for comfortable everyday use. We also appreciate the consultative steering, as well as the satisfactory roadholding, which we owe to the batteries installed under the floor. The whole package is very sound and reassuring. A good point for a family car.
Despite its large size, the Volkswagen ID.5 is very comfortable in town. What's more, its fuel consumption remains fairly reasonable, at between 17 and 17.8 kWh/100 kilometres. Its battery of 77 kWh, identical to the other versions, gives it a range of around 513 kilometres according to the WLTP cycle, and can be recharged from 10 to 80 % in just 29 minutes on a fast terminal with a maximum power output of 135 kW. But it's on fast roads that the electric SUV feels particularly at home, benefiting from the Travel Assist semi-autonomous driving system, which works quite well. We also appreciate its quiet operation, despite some aerodynamic noise at high speeds.
Volkswagen ID.5 test drive: in brief
Highly versatile and offering a autonomy and sufficient comfort to travel farThe Volkswagen ID.5 is a car that will appeal to families in particular, but not only. Highly technological, it's also fun to drive and, above all, very reassuring, even on more winding roads. Its fuel consumption is reasonable for its size, and it offers a host of practical features, not to mention plenty of storage space. It's just a shame it's so expensive, with prices starting at €53,050.
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