VW ID.Cross First Drive: A New Era Begins!

TL;DR

The VW ID.Cross is a compact electric SUV launching autumn 2026 from ~€28,000, offering up to 436km range and impressive semi-autonomous driving tech.

Key Points

• 1.Built on the new MEB Plus platform. The ID.Cross uses cell-to-pack technology, making it 400kg lighter than the ID3 while offering more battery capacity and efficiency.
• 2.Two battery options at launch. A 37kWh LFP and a 52kWh NMC variant, with ranges of 316km and 436km respectively; DC charging from 10–80% takes as little as 24–27 minutes.
• 3.Real buttons return, haptic touch is gone. The interior features physical climate controls, per-window buttons, a 12.9-inch touchscreen, 10.25-inch instrument cluster, and sixth-generation VW software with customizable widgets.
• 4.Connected Travel Assist impressed in testing. The top-spec Style trim's swarm-data-powered system autonomously stopped for red lights, accelerated on green, and maintained lane position without driver input.
• 5.Surprisingly spacious for a compact SUV. Boot space is 475L (20L more than the T-Roc), plus a 22L frunk, 1,340L with rear seats folded, and comfortable rear legroom for a 5'10" passenger.
• 6.Priced from ~€28,000 but fully loaded hits ~€40,000. Three trims (Trend, Life, Style) are offered, with optional Harman Kardon audio, sunroof, Vehicle-to-Load (3.6kW), and Vehicle-to-Grid support.