A Shift Toward Practicality

Volkswagen has officially listened to the chorus of criticism regarding its recent cabin designs. For years, automotive journalists and owners alike have lamented the brand's reliance on haptic sliders and touch-heavy interfaces in the ID series. Models like the ID.3 and ID.4 were often cited as prime examples of excessive minimalism gone wrong. With the new ID Cross, however, Volkswagen is proudly shifting gears toward a “back to basics” philosophy, reintroducing the physical buttons that drivers have been craving.


Interior Ergonomics and Design

Inside the cabin, the change is refreshing. The frustrating capacitive steering wheel panels have been replaced with traditional, tactile buttons. The climate controls now feature genuine physical switches, and the power button has made a welcome return. Even the window controls and door handles have been returned to a conventional, intuitive layout.


The steering wheel features a unique, squarish shape, which the manufacturer notes improves visibility of the instrument cluster. The digital display itself pays homage to the classic Mk1 Golf, displaying essential data like energy usage and battery percentage in a clear, heritage-inspired format.


Space efficiency is a standout feature. As one reviewer noted:

“In VW terms, this pretty much offers a VW T-Roc-level of space for a VW T-Cross-size car.”
The boot offers significant capacity, complemented by a practical underfloor storage area.


Performance and Handling

The ID Cross is built on a front-wheel-drive platform, utilizing a single motor on the front axle. With 208bhp and 214lb ft of torque, the vehicle feels agile, particularly in urban environments. Weighing in at just over 1,500kg, it is relatively lightweight for an electric vehicle, which positively impacts its acceleration and braking performance.


The braking system is particularly sophisticated, blending regenerative braking with traditional discs to allow for a smooth one-pedal driving experience. On the road, the car exhibits the familiar characteristics of a front-wheel-drive hatchback. While it offers a comfortable amount of body roll, it remains composed, with the front wheels handling the majority of the driving dynamics.


Efficiency and Charging

Efficiency figures for the ID Cross are competitive. Early tests suggest it could outperform the ID.3 in terms of energy consumption. Key specifications include:

  • Battery: 52kWh NMC unit.
  • Range: Estimated 271 miles (WLTP).
  • Charging: Supports up to 105kW DC fast charging.
  • Speed: 10-80% charge in approximately 24 minutes.

Final Thoughts

While future iterations may include more complex additions like Dynamic Chassis Control or limited-slip differentials, the current iteration of the ID Cross succeeds because of its simplicity. By focusing on usability and ergonomic comfort, Volkswagen has created an electric SUV that feels intuitive and well-conceived. For potential buyers, this return to functional design is a significant step in the right direction.