Volkswagen ID.4 or Ioniq 5: which one is the best choice?

The year 2021 will see the arrival of a large number of electric models on the market. In 2022, there will be even more, and 2023 will be even better. And so on... The electric revolution has begun!

For consumers looking for an all-electric model, the moment is exciting, as with a growing selection, it becomes interesting to shop for a new vehicle.

Today, we take the time to look at two electric vehicles that will make their debut this year: the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Ioniq 5. The former will debut before the latter, but soon both will be on the road. Let's see what each has to offer.

VOLKSWAGEN ID.4: FIRST VEHICLE OF THE ELECTRIC ID DIVISION

The Volkswagen ID.4 is a small SUV that is similar in format to the Volkswagen Golf, but bigger. Its design leaves no doubt as to its German origins and proudly displays itself as the first vehicle in the company's ID electric division in North America (Europe already has the ID.3).

Available at the beginning of summer, the ID.4 can be purchased in either a two-wheel-drive configuration or with all-wheel drive. The former will offer a power output of 201 horsepower, while the latter will suggest 302 horsepower. As for the battery capacity, it will be 82 kWh, but Volkswagen indicates that only 77 kWh will be usable. As for fast charging, a capacity of 125 kW will be offered, which can result in the recovery of 80% of the capacity in 30 minutes.

Those who buy the model will benefit from two years of free recharging on the Electrify Canada network. That's an interesting incentive. And as for driving, one can expect a raised experience. As for range, it is expected to be a little over 400 kilometers.

IONIQ 5: HYUNDAI'S ELECTRIC FUTURE

At the end of last year, Hyundai announced that it was launching a brand dedicated to electrification, Ioniq. A model from the brand still carries this name, but now, an entire range is being introduced. Already, three models have been announced: the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and Ioniq 7. You guessed it, the first to be introduced is the Ioniq 5.

This one takes the form of a model that sits between the hatchback and the compact SUVmaking it an interesting competitor to the Volkswagen ID.4.

Aesthetically, we will have a model with a really modern and different style. In fact, because we are dealing with a new brand, we are entitled to a new image, which is appealing. The Ioniq 5 will be based on a new platform dedicated to electricity, the E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform). As for the battery, 77,4 kWh will be usable, which is very similar to what Volkswagen offers. As for range, it is also expected to be around 400 to 425 kilometers; official figures remain to be confirmed.

VOLKSWAGEN ID.4 OR IONIQ 5: WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?

Where the Ioniq 5 will stand out is that it will be able to offer a 400 or 800-volt architecture. For fast charging, with a station offering a capacity of 350 kW, it will only take 18 minutes to go from 5% to 80% capacity.

Like with the Volkswagen ID.4, models with two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive will be available. The former will offer a performance of 215 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the latter will have 302 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque.

On the road, the level of performance will be similar.

Of course, both models will offer a variety of technologies and safety features. Prices and other details are expected closer to the launch of both products.