Volkswagen ID.7 GTX: A Long-Distance Vehicle With Sprint-Like Capabilities
With the ID.7 GTX, Volkswagen is putting its strongest electric sedan into the race. This is facilitated by an additional motor, which does influence consumption and range, but significantly boosts driving enjoyment.
The GTX badge is a common sight on the flagship models of Volkswagen's ID series. The ID.4 and ID.5 SUVs were the first to don it, and more recently, the ID.3 has also been available in GTX trim. However, due to space constraints at the front axle, the ID.3 GTX is the sole model that boasts rear-wheel drive.
Flagship Model
The ID.7 GTX, priced around 63,000 euros, is based on a larger variant of the MEB architecture. This allows for the addition of an additional 80 kW/109 PS electric motor at the front. Volkswagen opted for an asynchronous motor (ASM), which can operate nearly friction-free when not in use, thereby benefitting consumption and range.
At the rear, a permanent magnet motor (PSM) is in operation, delivering 210 kW/285 PS. When combined, the motors provide a total output of 250 kW/340 PS, making the ID.7 GTX the flagship model of the series, surpassing all other performance sedans and wagons from Volkswagen.
Impressive Driving Performance
This increased performance is evident in the driving experience, with the usual 0-100 km/h sprint (5.4 seconds) becoming less important. The remarkable acceleration and impressive elasticity, both unique to electric motors, are what truly impress and ensure maximum driving enjoyment. Moreover, the response of electric motors can be infinitely varied, allowing for full power and maximum torque to be available in milliseconds, a "punch" that only high-performance sports cars can match.
However, some passengers may find the sudden acceleration in the GTX uncomfortable, especially when the driver engages in short bursts of speed. This can force them into their seats and make their heads hit the headrest every time.
Acceptable Energy Consumption
Despite the high motor power, energy consumption remains within acceptable limits. During our test drive around Stockholm, the on-board computer displayed only 17.6 kWh/100 km, falling within the WLTP value range provided by Volkswagen (16.2 and 18.4 kWh/100 km).
However, the rear-wheel-drive Pro S version consumes only between 13.6 and 16.2 kWh/100 km, showing the impact of larger and wider wheels (20 inches instead of 19 inches) and the additional weight of the second motor on consumption and consequently, range. The latter is around 100 kilometers lower, at 595 kilometers.
Battery Power and Charging
The ID.7 GTX features the same-sized battery as the current MEB platform's largest: 86 kWh. It can be charged at DC fast-charging stations with up to 200 kW (previously, the maximum charging power was 175 kW). Under optimal conditions (preconditioning via activated navigation or manual), the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% of its capacity in just 26 minutes. This translates to 205 "fresh" kilometers being added in just 10 minutes.
Long-Distance Comfort
Despite its sporty design, the ID.7 GTX offers impressive comfort. Those who opt for the optional DCC adaptive suspension (Dynamic Chassis Control) in combination with the standard progressive steering enjoy precision and comfort at a luxury level, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
Externally, the GTX can be identified by its redesigned front bumper with a honeycomb grille. The daytime running lights (two upright LED triangles) resemble arrowheads and will serve as a distinctive feature for all GTX models. The rear features a honeycomb grille and a diffuser to differentiate it from other ID.7 models.
Red Direction
Of course, the ID.7 GTX does not lack in individuality when it comes to color options. Volkswagen highlights the "Kings Red Metallic" as a iconic color, paying homage to the historic Golf GTI paint job. All GTX models come with a black roof.
The interior also features the color red. The seats are upholstered in a new microfiber material (ArtVelours Eco) with red contrast stitching, red edging, and a red GTX logo. The leather steering wheel also has red stitching.
The performance upgrade for the ID.7, including the electric all-wheel drive, comes at a reasonable price. The GTX starts at 63,155 euros. However, Volkswagen still pays the former state environmental bonus of 3,570 euros, making the ID.7 GTX ultimately cost 59,585 euros.
Technical Specifications
The ID.7 GTX boasts impressive technical specifications, with its dual-motor setup providing a total output of 250 kW/340 PS. The vehicle can reach 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds and offers a range of up to 595 kilometers, dependent on driving style and battery charging options. The large 86 kWh battery can be charged at up to 200 kW, allowing for fast charging times and long-distance travel capabilities.
The ID.7 GTX also offers advanced features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, and a high-resolution digital instrument cluster. The vehicle's exterior design is sleek and modern, featuring LED headlights, a C-shaped taillight, and a sporty rear diffuser. Overall, the ID.7 GTX is a powerful and sophisticated electric sedan that delivers on both performance and luxury.
- Five-door, five-seat saloon car
- Dimensions: 4.96 meters in length, 1.86 meters wide (including exterior mirrors, 2.14 meters tall, wheelbase: 2.97 meters, cargo space: 532-1586 liters)
- Dual electric motors; rear PSM delivering 210 kW/285 PS, front ASM offering 80 kW/109 PS, total system power: 250 kW/340 PS, maximum torque: 565 Nm, all-wheel drive, single-speed automatic transmission
- 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, top speed: 180 km/h, battery capacity: 86 kWh, driving range: 595 kilometers, peak DC charging power: 200 kW, fuel efficiency: 18.4-16.2 kWh/100 km, greenhouse gas emissions: 0 grams per kilometer, energy efficiency class: A
- Price: 63,155 euros, excluding the manufacturer's environmental discount of 3,570 euros
The ID.7 GTX is not manufactured using materials from the product itself, as it is a vehicle with components sourced from various headings. The flagship model, despite its powerful electric motors and improved performance, maintains acceptable energy consumption levels, making it an efficient and enjoyable commuting option.
