Volkswagen is planning on updating its ID4 and ID5 electric SUVs with a facelift and specification upgrade in early 2024, according to reports coming out of the UK automotive press.
The Australian release date for the ID4 and ID5 SUVs was recently delayed again to early 2025, meaning that Aussie buyers of Volkswagen’s first local EV models would be receiving the upgraded and facelifted versions.
The Volkswagen ID4 first landed in Australia during 2022
According to a report from UK outlet Autocar, the brand’s CEO Thomas Schäfer mentioned these plans whilst speaking about a revised ID model strategy.
Once updated, it’s likely that Volkswagen’s ID4 and ID5 pairing will still face competition from the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Though specific details are scarce regarding the facelift coming to the ID4 and ID5 pairing, it seems that both SUVs are set to get electric hardware upgrades first.
The ID5 coupe SUV features a sloped roof
It seems that more powerful drivetrain options will become available before the end of the year, prior to the facelift versions’ arrive in early 2024.
It is possible that high-specification versions of the ID4 and ID5 could receive a more powerful rear electric motor akin to the 210kW version recently announced for the Cupra Tavascan – a sporty electric SUV that shares the same platform as the Volkswagen models.
A battery upgrade could even see range extended a little past the current top claims of the ID4 and ID5, which offer a driving range of up to 516km (WLTP).
The ID4 and ID5 are expected to go on sale in Australia during 2024
As well as updated exterior looks, this inbound ID4/ID5 facelift will reportedly add enhanced digital functionality on the inside.
The same report stated that an electric version of the Tiguan is set to go on sale in 2025, but contrary to what most would expect, this SUV isn’t going to replace the ID4 or ID5.
Schäfer explained to Autocar that the three models will have enough breathing room to coexist in the SUV market.
The facelifted ID4 and ID5 could share drivetrain components with the Cupra Tavascan
“This is the world’s largest vehicle segment, which is also home to our popular Tiguan. The new model can complement our ID4 and ID5,” he said.
Fast facts: Volkswagen ID4 and ID5
First unveiled at the end of 2020, the ID4 was Volkswagen’s first all-electric SUV to be debuted. This was followed by the ID5 at the end of 2021, arriving as a sloped-roof coupe variant.
As for an Australia launch, the SUV pairing was initially meant to land in the second half of 2023, but delays have meant that this is now pushed back to 2024.
The interior of the ID4 is expected to be updated with the introduction of the faclifted model
With 77kWh of usable capacity, this battery pack provides 520km range (WLTP). The cars are rear-wheel drive, with a single motor producing 150kW/310Nm. Performance grades with AWD will follow later.
Alongside confirming that the SUVS will be landing in 2024, Volkswagen Australia states that all its dealerships will be selling and servicing its entire BEV range from the get go.
