08/07/2024 Big saloon cars never sell well in Ireland – unless they are premium machines. Even then, large saloons or sedans sell in tiny numbers. And let’s not forget they are also out of fashion. Buyers today prefer large SUVs and crossovers, so why has Volkswagen brought out the ID.7 that we’re testing?
The ID.7 is the flagship electric model in the ID range. Technically VW call its body style a fastback (aka liftback) but to most onlookers, it has the appearance of a three-box-saloon. At nearly 5 metres long, ID.7 is a large-for-Ireland (VW officially calls it mid-sized), imposing five-seater powered by electricity alone. The standard battery holds 77kWh with a larger 86kWh battery option coming soon. VW says the standard ID.7 can deliver a maximum range from a full battery of 621km – impressive! Unlike earlier IDs you can precondition (heats to circa 25C) the battery via the touch screen, where it gives a countdown in minutes to optimal condition.
Outside, the big VW is hard to ignore and looks relatively sleek, wide and low-set next to the current crop of EVs. Soft touch door handles add a touch of premium too! A high-performance GTX model and a more accommodating Tourer (estate) version also feature the range. The ID.7 is quietly handsome enough but not a head-turner.
Inside, the cabin is large and spacious. A large 15-inch centre touchscreen dominates the dashboard. The screen uses VW’s latest MIB4 infotainment software. The driver gets a small, but perfectly formed display and our car had an excellent HUD head-up display. Sadly too many touch controls feature e.g. the dash-mounted ventilation controls require interaction with the touchscreen to open or adjust position. I understand that this bit of digital interaction is meant to impress – but it is too clunky to use and quite annoying.
The ID.7 has aires of ‘premium-car’ to the cabin in the materials used and fit and finish but somehow it hasn’t made the jump up out of mainstream. The whole ‘touch button’ thing has gone a bit too far in the ID.7 and even operating the windows is a pain with a rear button and as for the overly sensitive side mirror buttons!!! Luxury/premium should be effortless and not draw attention to itself – sadly interacting with the ID.7 for simple daily driving tasks annoyed me at times.
The rear of the cabin is super comfortable and there is tons of space. The boot is huge and in the Tourer – bigger again. The Tourer ID.7 can hold 73 litres more than the fastback version with up to 605 litres of luggage capacity with its rear seat backrests in cargo position. The ID.7 with its middle seats downs has 1,586 litres of cargo space (1,714 litres Tourer – loaded to roofline).
Power comes via VW’s new generation drive system. Its output is an impressive 286hp with 545nm of torque. The sprint from 0-100km/h takes 6.5 seconds. The ID.7’s shape means the car is relatively aerodynamic and it is easy to see this gain in efficiency in terms of reduced energy consumption. The car’s low profile and slippery shape makes this ID a more efficient motorway cruiser than its blockier EV cousins.
The driving experience is unremarkable and superior to any electric SUV when cornering. The ID.7 delivers hushed, comfortable and spacious electric car efficiency in a conservative body. If you regularly carry back seat passengers its well worth considering. Michael Sheridan
