GTX will continue to be used for high-performance electric vehicles.
Volkswagen’s ID.4 was introduced last fall, and now the company is giving the electric SUV a performance model to celebrate the GTX badge that is reserved for fast EVs. VW used GTX previously for the Jetta, Golf and Scirocco versions in certain markets. Now it’s returning for spicy vehicles that don’t need the combustion engine.
The GTX is a modified ID.4, which has a single motor and rear-wheel drive. Horsepower goes up from 201 horsepower (150 kW) and 295 horsepower (220 kW), which is slightly more than the 302-hp output of the dual-motor setup. China-only ID.6 A larger, three-row electric SUV.
The 0-60 mph (100 km/h), which is now 8.5 seconds, has fallen to 6.2 seconds. Top speed has increased from 99 MPH (160 km/h), to an electronically controlled 112 MPH (180 km/h). A more pertinent performance number for day-to-day driving would be the 0 to 37 MPH (60 km/h), which takes 3.2 seconds.
The VW ID.4 GTX has an AWD system that can be adjusted automatically. The electric SUV is still rear-wheel-drive until the onboard sensors sense more traction. AWD kicks in when the driver pushes the accelerator pedal harder, a characteristic Wolfsburg describes as “sporty driving style”. It takes only a few seconds to switch from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive. VW claims that it is so seamless that the driver will not even notice it.
The ID.4 GTX is available with standard 20-inch wheels, or an optional 21-inch set with 358mm brakes at its front axle. Although some may be disappointed that the rear axle still uses drum brakes, even on the performance model, it’s not surprising when you consider the Audi Q4E-Tron has the same setup.
The optional Sports package, which is available at an additional charge, lowers the electric SUV by 15% (0.6 inches), and adds progressive steering to the mix for more dynamic driving. To balance comfort and sportiness, the Sports Plus package also includes adaptive shock absorbers. You have the option to select from Eco, Comfort or Sport modes, as well as Individual and Traction modes.
The 1,071 pound (486 kg) battery weighs in at 77 kWh. It is the same type of lithium-ion pack as the regular ID. It can travel up to 298 miles (480 km) per WLTP in the GTX. Although it is not as long as the 323 miles (520 km) provided by the standard version, this is to be expected considering that the performance version weighs more after adding the front-electric motor. Fast charging at 125kW can give you 186 miles (300 km) of range in just half an hour, once your battery is low.
VW has taken steps to distinguish the GTX variant from its mainstream counterpart in terms of styling. The performance model features three-point LED lights that are arranged vertically in faux air intakes. Also, the grille is finished in glossy black. As standard, LED matrix headlights are available. You can also get fancy LED taillights with a 3D effect.
The ID.4 GTX is shown here in Metallic Kings Red. Red accents on its interior give it a strong GTI feel. It is equipped with a heated steering column, LED ambient lighting in 30 colors, adjustable front armrests and split-folding rear seat. This makes sense for a higher-end version. You can choose from a variety of optional packages that include augmented reality head-up displays and an upgraded 12-inch infotainment screen.