Styling and Practicality of the ID.7

The ID.7 measures approximately 195 inches in length, making it more comparable to Tesla’s Model S than the Model 3. Its liftback design enhances practicality compared to Tesla’s sedan. Despite its larger size, the ID.7 maintains a drag coefficient of 0.23, matching that of the Model 3.

Equipped with a 77-kWh battery, the ID.7 is expected to deliver over 300 miles of range, according to EPA standards. In markets outside North America, a larger 86-kWh battery will be available, offering around 435 miles based on the generous WLTP cycle. Both battery options support a peak charging speed of 180 kW, a significant upgrade over the ID.4’s 125 kW.

Given that the ID.4 has an 82-kWh battery with a maximum range of 275 miles, the ID.7 showcases superior efficiency, especially with its upgraded 282-horsepower rear-mounted motor—an increase from the ID.4’s 201 horsepower. An all-wheel-drive variant is expected to follow, likely producing around 400 horsepower.

While these enhancements are promising, Volkswagen has emphasized comfort, suggesting that the ID.7 may not position itself as the sporty alternative to the Model 3. Instead, its focus on luxury translates into a significantly improved interior compared to its predecessors.

Interior Features and User Experience

The ID.7 offers increased rear passenger space, ensuring ample headroom and legroom. Front-seat occupants can enjoy features like ventilated and massaging seats, ambient lighting, an augmented-reality heads-up display, and an electrochromic glass roof that adjusts sunlight exposure.

Additionally, the user interface has undergone a substantial upgrade. Volkswagen's previous infotainment system was criticized for its confusing touch-sensitive buttons. The ID.7 features a new set of haptic buttons and boasts a larger 15-inch screen with enhanced responsiveness and more integrated apps, including Spotify.

With the ID.7, Volkswagen addresses the limitations of its earlier electric models. This raises the question: Is the ID.7 equipped to rival Tesla?

Comparing ID.7 and Tesla Model 3

On paper, the VW ID.7 surpasses Tesla’s Model 3 in range, power, and practicality, alongside offering a more luxurious cabin than competitors. However, it does come with an estimated starting price of around $55,000, placing it in competition with the Model 3 Performance. Although the latter may sacrifice some refinement, it delivers supercar-like performance with a similar range.

Volkswagen’s flagship model justifies its price tag with an extensive array of standard features, including everything mentioned earlier, aside from the massaging seats, upgraded sound system, and adaptive sunroof. If the AWD system follows the ID.4’s pricing of $3,800, buyers could enjoy a larger vehicle with a luxury driving experience and approximately 400 horsepower for just $6,000 more than the Model 3 Performance.

When compared to rivals like the BMW i4 or Polestar 2, which offer less range, fewer features, and less performance at similar price points, the ID.7 emerges as a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a non-Tesla EV sedan.