Peaceful EV feeling

Ready to go electric but worried about the logistics? Relax: competition is driving down prices, especially with contract purchase or lease deals, and battery tech is improving. And as these six prove, some EVs are now genuine head-turners...

- Lean Poultney

Volkswagen ID.4

What's the story?

VW's electrification of its range has been surprisingly rapid, thanks to the brand choosing to adopt batteries and motors long before many of its rivals. The result is a neat EV lineup ranging from the Golf-sized ID.3 up to the ID.Buzz van.

The ID.4 sits in the middle of the pack, offering plenty of room for drivers and passengers, wrapped up in a sort of quasi-crossover package that isn't pure SUV, nor typical low-slung saloon fare.

The interior is deliberately sparse, with even the gear selector committed to a stalk behind the steering wheel. From the moment you slide into the ID.4, you get the impression this is a functional object, rather than something designed to stir the emotions.

That's no bad thing, and there is plenty of choice, from the most frugal Pure models with 223 miles of range to the Pro Performance with 328 miles.

There's an ID.4 to suit most budgets and needs.

Is it any good?

VW has nailed the basics here, offering a gloriously simple driving experience that's refined and easy to live with. It's a joy to scoot around town in.

There's plenty in the way of driver assistance and all of the infotainment niceties you could want... it's just a shame VW's operating system is so clunky. It's all menus and fiddly haptic buttons, while even the cool features, such as the LEDs that indicate an upcoming turning, only work with the VW nav, not Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Over-the-air software updates are likely to fix some issues; until then it's still a great space to use on a daily basis, with generous room in the rear for three adults and an ample boot from £46,375/ go.stuff.tv/id4

Key specs

Up to 337 miles Up to 261bhp 80% in 30mins 0-62mph in 5.4-6.7secs Up to 112mph