VW's Crucial Small Electric SUV Makes Its Debut | Carscoops

      The ID.Cross electric SUV will join the ID.Polo in Volkswagen's lineup starting in 2026, but it is expected to be significantly more popular.

      VW’s 2025 ID.Cross concept is transitioning into a production electric vehicle.

      This electric version of the subcompact T-Cross introduces a new design language for VW.

      The concept features a front-mounted motor with 208 hp and a range of 261 miles.

      Volkswagen’s smallest electric SUV has emerged from the concept phase and is now on public roads. Our spy photographers captured the first images of the ID.Cross prototype, providing an initial glimpse of the subcompact EV that was showcased at the Munich Auto Show last September.

      Although still clad in camouflage, the production model bears a striking resemblance to the original concept.

      The proportions appear nearly identical; the ID.Cross has short overhangs, a rounded front, and a slightly tapered rear that reflects the concept’s “urban-friendly” design.

      The final version is expected to align closely with the concept’s dimensions, which were optimized to maximize interior space within a compact size: about 4,160 mm (163.8 inches) in length, making it shorter than the Taos in the U.S. and squarely within the subcompact EV segment.

      Even while camouflaged, the outlines of the headlights and taillights appear reminiscent of those from the Munich exhibit, hinting at VW’s latest light-bar design. Although not visible, it’s likely that the three illuminated rectangles integrated into the concept’s black C-pillar have made their way to the production model as well.

      The concept's quirky interior, designed to resemble a yoga studio on wheels, won't be carried over in its entirety, so don’t expect pastel lighting or Zen-garden textures in the standard version.

      However, VW's newest compact cabin layout, featuring a larger infotainment screen and enhanced physical controls, should be included.

      What powers it?

      The ID.Cross is based on the latest iteration of the MEB platform, which has been optimized for this new front-wheel-drive generation of small electric vehicles, including the ID.Polo.

      The concept was designed with a single-motor configuration generating about 208 hp (211 PS / 155 kW), which is a plausible target for the production model. Additionally, we anticipate that less powerful options will also be introduced to broaden availability.

      Volkswagen did not disclose the battery size for the concept, but they indicated it could achieve a 261-mile (420 km) WLTP electric range, providing a good indication of the real-world driving capabilities we can expect when it debuts globally next year.

      Will the U.S. get it?

      Sales in the U.S. have not yet been confirmed; however, in Europe, the ID.Cross is expected to start around £25,000/€28,000 ($32,000) when it competes against other electric crossovers like the Kia EV2, Toyota Urban Cruiser, and its VW Group counterparts, the Skoda Epiq and Cupra Raval.