Volkswagen’s ID.4 SUV electric vehicle (EV) has officially gone on sale in the UK, with 1ST Edition models available to order for £37,800 (inc. plug-in car grant).

The second creation to emerge from the new ID EV range of cars, the ID.4 follows in the tracks of the ID.3 hatchback which struck early sales success in 2020 and finished the year as Europe’s second best-selling car – just behind the VW Golf.

Order book have opened today and deliveries of the ID.4 to UK franchised car dealerships are expected to get underway in March, VW said.

Volkswagen UK ID family product manager, Joe Laurence, said: “With the popularity of SUVs as high as ever, we are proud to be introducing our first all-electric contender in the form of the ID.4.

“Its external dimensions are similar to the Tiguan, but thanks to the MEB platform and the packaging benefits of an electric drivetrain it boasts even more interior space along with that all-important lofty driving position.

“The ID.4 is also our first electric vehicle that can be fitted with an optional tow bar, suitable for trailers weighing up to 1,000kg.

“This really is an incredibly practical car, and with the batteries mounted under the passenger compartment, it has a low centre of gravity which equips it with great driving dynamics and balanced handling. We know our customers are going to love it.”

Volkswagen car dealers introduced the ID.3 hatchback to the first UK customers in a socially-distanced handover event over the course of a weekend in September last year.

It, too, was initially launched in well-equipped 1ST Edition guise.

VW said that the ID.4 range would be expanded later this year

In 1ST Edition guise, the ID.4 features a 204 PS electric motor and 77 kWh battery capable of a 310-mile zero emissions range.

Rapid charging compatibility of up to 125 kW ensures that it is possible to add up to 199 miles of range in just 30 minutes.

Its trim features internal and external ‘1ST’ badging, and Florence Brown highlights in a trim-specific interior.

Four metallic exterior paint colours will be available for the 1ST Edition: Glacier White, Blue Dusk, Manganese Grey and Honey Yellow.

Externally, there are 20-inch ‘Drammen’ alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights, tinted rear windows, and a reversing camera.

Inside, drivers will find ArtVelours microfleece seats which – like the steering wheel – are heated, 30-colour ambient lighting, 10-inch infotainment display with Discover Pro navigation system and ID.

Light, first seen on the ID.3 – a dynamic LED band the width of the windscreen, which changes its pattern and colour to supplement and support navigation signals, charging status, driver assist technologies or the natural voice control.

The model also offers a range of safety features including Adaptive Cruise Control, Front Assist, and Lane Assist, with parking sensors front and rear.