Could this be VW's biggest electric breakthrough? Introducing the ID Cross, the affordable compact SUV
The ID Cross gets its full launch and promises to be a true Volkswagen, or people's car
Quick Summary
The VW ID Cross gets its full reveal ahead of going on sale towards the end of the year. With a choice of battery sizes and space for family and luggage, prices are expected to start from under £30k.
Introducing the VW ID Cross, the car that you're likely to see everywhere in 2027. Not only is it the car to tempt those on the verge of transitioning to electric, but it could also be the model that jettisons VW's electric presence.
Volkswagen literally translates as the people's car, and it's as much a mantra as it is a brand name for the Wolfsburg-based German manufacturer. Cars such as the Beetle, Polo and Golf epitomised the idea with cars that everyone loved to drive and most could afford.
The new electric VW lineup is promising a return to form here, with smaller and more affordable electric models, including a new electric Polo and Polo GTI, but there's also this model, which could be the biggest hit of them all.
The VW ID Cross is a city car, or compact SUV, providing a practical and well-specced family car with a price starting at just €28,000 (around £24,000). UK prices are still to be confirmed but will hopefully be under £30k.
Its design was first revealed as a concept prototype back in September 2025, and I got to drive the camouflaged version back in March 2026. However, this is the first time the full car has been revealed.
Based on the new MEB+ platform, the ID Cross is a front-wheel-drive system, and comes with either a 37kWh or 52kWh battery to give up to 211 horsepower (155kW). That also means a range of up to 270 miles (190 for the smaller battery), which is plenty for a city car.
The interior is similar to the new ID Polo models, with a clean and straightforward design, inspired by the 1980s VW designs. There's a new multifunction steering wheel, physical buttons for the climate control beneath the 10.25-inch central screen, and a very cool retro mode on the displays that mimics the old Golf Mark I instrument panels.
Not only is there plenty of space inside for up to five passengers, but there's a 475-litre luggage compartment, with a hidden lower storage area, and an additional 25-litre 'frunk' storage under the bonnet.
The ID Cross goes on sale in Germany this Autumn, with UK sales to follow shortly after.
