The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 1st boasts a combined MPG of 97, which is what owners expect. It’s an electric vehicle designed for maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. For buyers looking for zero-emission driving and lower running costs, the ID.4 1st delivers.

City and highway performance

EPA ratings for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 1st show its strength in cities, with a city MPG equivalent of 104. The electric motor’s regenerative braking system captures energy during deceleration and feeds it back into the battery. The ID.4 1st shines in stop-and-go traffic by minimizing energy waste. On the highway, the EPA estimates 89 MPG. Higher speeds and less regenerative braking mean lower efficiency versus city figures. The single-speed automatic transmission delivers power smoothly and efficiently across the driving range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 1st at $800. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles per year and the national average electricity price. Your actual cost will vary depending on your local electricity rates, driving habits, and charging habits. For many ID.4 1st owners who primarily charge at home during off-peak hours, the actual annual energy cost could be lower than the EPA estimate. The “fuel” cost of an EV is tied to electricity prices, which can fluctuate but are generally more stable than gasoline prices.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings are a standardized benchmark, but real-world range and efficiency for the ID.4 1st varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent climate control, and sustained high speeds all decrease range. Colder temperatures can also hurt battery performance. However, drivers in moderate climates who drive efficiently can often achieve results close to, or exceeding, the EPA estimates. Potential buyers should consider their driving patterns and environmental conditions to get a realistic sense of what to expect from their ID.4 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 1st is among other electric SUVs, and its efficiency is comparable to others. The Hyundai Kona Electric, for example, gets 120 MPGe combined, a slight edge over the ID.4. The Nissan LEAF offers around 111 MPGe combined. But only comparing MPGe can be misleading. The ID.4’s larger size and added practicality make it a better choice for families than the smaller Kona Electric. The Chevrolet Bolt, with 120 MPGe, also targets efficiency but lacks the ID.4’s SUV dimensions. The Tesla Model Y Long Range achieves around 122 MPGe combined but costs more. Buyers value factors beyond just efficiency when considering the practicality and range of each option. You can see all Volkswagen fuel economy data to compare the ID.4 against VW’s gas powered fleet.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The ID.4 1st offers different levels of regenerative braking, including a “B” mode that provides more aggressive energy recuperation when you lift off the accelerator. This can improve your efficiency, especially in city driving.

Precondition the cabin before you unplug. While your ID.4 is plugged in, use the climate control to heat or cool the cabin. This reduces the energy demand on the battery once you start driving.

Keep the tires properly inflated. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces efficiency. Checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is a simple way to maximize your range.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard acceleration and braking. Smooth driving maximizes any vehicle’s efficiency, and the ID.4 1st is no exception. Avoid bursts of speed and brake gently to conserve energy.

Reduce the weight you carry. Excess weight decreases fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk to reduce load and improve your MPG.