New Volkswagen ID.7 has Model 3 in its sights

OFFICIAL Aerodynamic electric family car offers more than 400 miles of range and VW's latest infotainment

- Matt Robinson

THE Volkswagen ID range has grown a little bigger, thanks to the introduction of the all-new ID.7. At nearly five metres long, it'll challenge the Tesla Model 3, with VW calling the ID.7 the 'ID. flagship'.

Propelling the new model is a rear-mounted electric motor, which is powered by a 77kWh battery in the ID.7 Pro that will be available from launch, while the 82kWh ID.7 Pro S will arrive later. VW gives projected WLTP range figures of up to 382 miles and 435 miles for the two derivatives: the Model 3 offers up to 374 miles.

It'll be slower than the average Tesla, however, with a power output of 282bhp. VW has yet to release performance figures, but we'd estimate that the ID.7 will be capable of 0-62mph in around six seconds. A faster ID.7 GTX with dual-motor four-wheel drive is likely to join the range later on.

At the front, the family link between the ID.7 and cars such as the ID.4 SUV is clear. The design diverges at the rear, with a full-width light bar which appears white until lit.

The ID.7 is best described as a 'fastback', with a sloping roof leading to a hatchback boot. It's a slippery shape, with a low drag coefficient of 0.23Cd. All ID.7s will feature black roofs with black door pillars.

Inside, VW appears to have learned lessons from the poor reception that some of its recent products have earned. Having sat inside the new model, we can confirm that the ID.7 has a more premium feel than the ID.4 or ID.5, with plenty of soft-touch surfaces.