VOLKSWAGEN ID.7 FIRST DRIVE REVIEW: MY NEW FAVORITE ROAD TRIPPER

EV Channels Review

The Volkswagen ID.7 is presented as a highly comfortable and quiet electric sedan, potentially a new favorite for road trips. The reviewer highlights its exceptionally comfortable seats, which come standard with heating, cooling, and a customizable massaging function. The vehicle's suspension, featuring a new Dynamic Chassis Control system, is praised for offering a wide range of adjustability from comfort to sport, rivaling more expensive premium brands. The new software (4.0) on the 15-inch touchscreen is described as snappy and intuitive, a significant improvement over previous VW EVs. Positives also include standard augmented reality head-up display, a premium Harmon Kardon sound system, and an innovative electrochromic glass roof. However, the reviewer notes the continued use of capacitive buttons for HVAC and windows, and the lack of a front trunk and one-pedal driving as significant drawbacks. Charging performance is deemed respectable, with the 77 kWh battery peaking at 175 kW and adding 31% in 15 minutes, while the upcoming 86 kWh battery will offer even faster charging. The ID.7 is positioned as a strong contender for US consumers seeking a comfortable, long-distance EV, though its success may depend on pricing and the sedan market's resurgence.