Volkswagen, Germany and Europe’s largest EV supplier in 2025, is presenting the ID. CROSS Concept, a compact electric SUV, at IAA Mobility in Munich (8–14 September).
The concept is designed for both urban commuting and long-distance travel, combining practicality with Volkswagen’s new design language.
A Vision for Volkswagen’s Future
Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen brand, said:
“From the very beginning, my goal was to shape the best version of Volkswagen. The near-production ID. CROSS demonstrates this vision with a fresh design, advanced technology, improved usability, and higher quality. With this new generation, we are delivering on our promises.”
Entry-Level EV Campaign
The ID. CROSS Concept is part of Volkswagen’s broader entry-level EV strategy.
| Model | Status | Launch Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| ID.2 all | Concept shown | Production 2026 |
| ID. GTI Concept (based on ID.2 all) | Concept | 2026 |
| ID. EVERY1 | Concept | Production 2027 |
| ID. CROSS Concept | Concept at IAA 2025 | Production summer 2026 |
| ID. Polo (production of ID.2 all) | Camouflaged preview | First half 2026 |
| ID. Polo GTI | Preview | After ID. Polo launch |
Through this campaign, Volkswagen and its Brand Group Core (SEAT & CUPRA, ŠKODA, VW Passenger Cars, VW Commercial Vehicles) will offer affordable EVs in Europe.
By leveraging synergies and economies of scale, the group ensures technical innovation and cost competitiveness.
New Design Language: Pure Positive
The ID. CROSS Concept debuts Volkswagen’s new “Pure Positive” design language.
Andreas Mindt, Head of Design, explained:
- Focus on stability, likeability, and “secret sauce”.
- Pure, powerful surfaces with clear lines.
- A smiling personality with 3D light graphics at front and rear.
- Heritage-inspired details referencing Golf and VW Bus.
Compact Yet Spacious
- Length: 4,161 mm
- Width: 1,839 mm
- Height: 1,588 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,601 mm
These dimensions are close to the current T-Cross. However, the ID. CROSS gets custom 21-inch “Balboa” alloy wheels with Goodyear 235/40 R21 tyres designed specifically for the concept.
Interior: A Lounge on Wheels
The ID. CROSS interior is crafted for comfort:
- Vanilla Chai beige upholstery with fabric surfaces.
- Configurable light, sound, and climate modes (“Atmospheres”).
- Floating center console with real plants.
- Fully reclining seats inspired by the VW Bus.
The car also offers 450 liters of boot space plus a 25-liter front compartment (frunk).
Smart Cockpit Design
Volkswagen has focused on ease of use with:
- Two central displays on the same axis:
- 11-inch digital instruments.
- 13-inch infotainment touchscreen.
- Redesigned multifunction steering wheel with clear button layout.
- Natural voice control with intuitive menus.
Built on MEB+ Platform
The ID. CROSS Concept is based on the MEB modular electric drive matrix.
According to Kai Grünitz, VW Development Board Member:
“MEB is evolving into MEB+ with better software, batteries, and motors. Customers will benefit from advanced features like Travel Assist from higher segments.”
Powertrain and Range
- Motor: 155 kW (211 PS) electric drive on front axle
- Top Speed: 175 km/h
- Range: Up to 420 km (WLTP)
- Battery: Flat high-voltage battery in sandwich floor
Towing capability:
- 75 kg drawbar load (suitable for 2 e-bikes).
- 1,200 kg trailer weight (braked, 8% gradient).
Technical Specifications – ID. CROSS Concept
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive | MEB+, front-wheel drive |
| Power | 155 kW / 211 PS |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 420 km |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h |
| Dimensions | 4,161 mm L × 1,839 mm W × 1,588 mm H |
| Wheelbase | 2,601 mm |
| Boot Space | 450 L + 25 L frunk |
| Wheels | 21-inch Balboa alloys, 235/40 R21 Goodyear tyres |
| Towing | 75 kg drawbar, 1,200 kg trailer |
Towards Affordable Electric Mobility
With the ID. CROSS Concept and other upcoming models, Volkswagen is proving that affordable electric mobility can be both stylish and practical.
The production-ready version of the ID. CROSS will premiere in summer 2026, marking a new chapter in Volkswagen’s EV journey.