For years, the electric vehicle market has been dominated by premium offerings, often priced beyond the reach of the average buyer. While luxury EVs bring cutting-edge technology and impressive performance, the real shift toward widespread adoption depends on affordable, practical, and approachable models. Volkswagen is stepping into this gap with the unveiling of the ID. Cross Concept a compact SUV that represents the automaker’s push to democratize electric mobility.
Following in the footsteps of the ID. Polo (previously the ID.2all concept) and the upcoming ID. EVERY1, the ID. Cross further cements VW’s strategy of making electric driving both accessible and enjoyable.
A Friendly New Look
Volkswagen has made it clear that the ID. Cross represents a new design language. Unlike some of the sharper, futuristic designs of its predecessors, this concept is deliberately styled to be more welcoming.
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Front Fascia: A narrow set of headlights connected by a slightly curved light bar that almost resembles a smile.
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Overall Design: Rounded lines and compact proportions make it less intimidating while maintaining a modern, stylish presence.
This approach is meant to appeal to buyers who want an EV that feels familiar, approachable, and not overly futuristic.
Summary Table
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
Model |
Volkswagen ID. Cross Concept |
Platform |
MEB Plus (next-generation EV platform) |
Motor Output |
155 kW (≈208 hp) |
Range |
420 km (260 miles WLTP) |
Top Speed |
175 km/h (108 mph) |
Towing Capacity |
75 kg (approx. 165 lbs, suitable for two e-bikes) |
Dimensions |
4,161 × 1,839 × 1,588 mm; 2,601 mm wheelbase |
Storage |
450 L rear cargo + 25 L frunk |
Interior |
Fabric surfaces, ambient lighting, physical steering controls |
Launch Timeline |
Production version due summer 2026 |
Estimated Price |
€28,000-€30,000 (~$32,800-$35,100) |
Official Site |
Platform and Engineering
At its core, the ID. Cross is built on the MEB Plus platform, Volkswagen’s next-generation EV architecture. This platform is an improvement over the widely used MEB, which underpins current models like the ID.4, ID. Buzz, and several Audi and Skoda EVs.
Key technical highlights include:
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Powertrain: A front-wheel drive setup delivering 155 kW (about 208 hp).
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Range: Up to 420 km (260 miles) under the WLTP cycle.
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Top Speed: 175 km/h (108 mph).
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Towing Capacity: With a ball coupling, it can tow up to 75 kg, enough for two e-bikes.
The MEB Plus platform also promises better batteries, improved motors, and far more reliable software a major upgrade considering the criticism Volkswagen has faced about its current EV software systems.
Compact Yet Practical Dimensions
The ID. Cross will slot in as an electric alternative to the VW T-Cross, making it smaller than the ID.4 while still offering plenty of space for daily use.
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Length: 4,161 mm (164 in)
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Width: 1,839 mm (72 in)
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Height: 1,588 mm (63 in)
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Wheelbase: 2,601 mm (102 in)
Storage
One of the highlights is practicality:
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Rear Cargo Space: 450 liters.
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Front Trunk (Frunk): 25 liters a pleasant surprise, as VW’s current EV lineup lacks frunk storage.
This makes the ID. Cross versatile enough for family trips, city driving, and even light outdoor adventures.
Interior and User Experience
Inside, Volkswagen has chosen a more inviting and warm interior design. Instead of hard plastics and a sterile atmosphere, the ID. Cross introduces:
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Fabric-covered surfaces with soft textures.
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Ambient lighting for a relaxing feel.
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Physical buttons on the steering wheel, after criticism of the touch-sensitive controls in earlier ID. models.
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Fold-flat seating that allows the cabin to be converted into a resting or camping space.
The interior philosophy is clear: make the EV feel like a comfortable everyday car, not just a piece of technology.
Market Strategy and Rollout
The ID. Cross was first revealed as a concept at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich. Volkswagen has confirmed that a production version will follow in summer 2026.
Price is expected to land in the €28,000-€30,000 range (around $32,800-$35,100), positioning it as one of the most affordable compact EVs in Europe.
Interestingly, Volkswagen has made no mention of bringing this vehicle to the United States at launch. This reflects the company’s stronger EV momentum in Europe, where smaller, affordable cars are in higher demand.
Why the ID. Cross Matters
The ID. Cross is more than just another EV. It represents:
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Accessibility: A car priced to compete with small gasoline crossovers.
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Improved Usability: Thoughtful touches like a frunk and fold-flat seats.
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Better Reliability: Promises of improved software and battery efficiency.
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Market Appeal: A design that feels friendly, not futuristic or intimidating.
By focusing on affordability without sacrificing utility, Volkswagen hopes the ID. Cross will convince more drivers to make the leap to electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the Volkswagen ID. Cross?
A. It is a compact electric SUV concept, designed as an affordable EV alternative to the VW T-Cross.
Q2: How much range does it have?
A. The ID. Cross delivers up to 420 km (260 miles WLTP) per charge.
Q3: When will it be released?
A. The production version is expected in summer 2026.
Q4: What will it cost?
A. Volkswagen targets a price between €28,000 and €30,000.
Q5: Will it launch in the US?
A. Currently, Volkswagen has only confirmed a European release, with no US availability announced.
Q6: What makes the ID. Cross different from other VW EVs?
A. It offers a friendlier design, extra cargo options including a frunk, and improved MEB Plus platform technology.
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